Kevin Hern Enters Oklahoma Senate Race Following Trump’s Mullin Nomination
Oklahoma Representative Kevin Hern announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Markwayne Mullin, following President Donald Trump’s nomination of Mullin as the next Secretary of Homeland Security. Hern is the first official candidate to enter the race since the announcement of Mullin’s potential departure from the Senate.
Trump’s Nomination Sparks Senate Scramble
President Trump’s decision to nominate Senator Mullin to lead the Department of Homeland Security has created a vacancy in Oklahoma’s Senate representation. Trump had previously announced his intention to replace Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem with Mullin [The Hill]. Mullin, who has described his relationship with Trump as a close one, expressed his anticipation of serving in the Cabinet role [NBC News].
Hern’s Candidacy and Potential Replacements
Hern’s entry into the Senate race positions him as a contender for the full Senate term, rather than a temporary appointee. Oklahoma law stipulates that any individual appointed to fill Mullin’s seat temporarily must pledge not to run for a full term [NBC News]. This requirement effectively removes Hern from consideration as a temporary replacement by Governor Kevin Stitt.
Hern’s Background and Congressional Experience
Hern has served in the U.S. House of Representatives since 2018, currently holding the position of chairman of the House Republican Policy Committee. He as well serves on the House Ways and Means Committee [NBC News]. Prior to his political career, Hern was a businessman, owning multiple McDonald’s franchises and other ventures.
Mullin’s Senate Tenure
Senator Mullin began his Senate career after winning a special election in 2022 to succeed retiring Senator Jim Inhofe [NBC News]. Before entering the Senate, Mullin served in the House of Representatives for ten years. He is also a former rancher, plumbing business owner and mixed martial arts fighter [PBS NewsHour].
Other Potential Candidates
Representative Stephanie Bice is also considering a bid for the Senate seat [NOTUS]. Representative Tom Cole has indicated he will not be running [NOTUS].
Should Mullin’s nomination be confirmed by the Senate, Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt will be responsible for appointing an interim senator to serve until the next general election in January 2027 [NBC News].