By Paige Orr, FOX23.com News Staff
TULSA, Okla. — Following an emotional night at his campaign headquarters, Dr. Robert Franklin secured the Republican nomination for Oklahoma State Superintendent of Public Instruction in Tuesday’s primary runoff election.
The race was called around 8:30 p.m. with approximately 80% of the precincts reporting. Franklin claimed victory after taking 54% of the vote.
As the race was called, confetti filled the room as supporters and family members gathered to celebrate the win. Franklin delivered a heartfelt speech to the crowd, reflecting on his decades in public education and honoring the memory of his late mother, whom he said remained heavy on his mind throughout the evening.
“You never stand taller, you never stand taller than when you stoop to help a child, never,” Franklin said. “So that’s the legacy she left, and I believe that and will continue to work toward that end.”
Speaking one-on-one with FOX23 following his victory speech, Franklin said while the primary win is a major milestone, his focus is already shifting to the months ahead.
“There is a lot of work to be done between now and November,” Franklin told FOX23, emphasizing that his campaign will continue reaching out to voters across the state to outline his vision for Oklahoma schools.
Franklin, who brings 44 years of experience in the Oklahoma school system, built his campaign around strengthening fundamental academics, expanding career and technical education options, and prioritizing parental involvement in public education.
With the primary runoff concluded, Franklin advances to the November general election, where he will face Democratic nominee Jennettie Marshall.
