WASHINGTON – Representative Kevin Hern, a Republican representing Oklahoma’s 1st congressional district, announced his candidacy for the U.S. Senate on Wednesday, setting the stage for a competitive race to succeed Senator Markwayne Mullin. The move comes after former President Donald Trump nominated Mullin to be the next Secretary of Homeland Security, a position Trump intends to fill starting March 31.
Hern’s decision marks the first official entry into the race for Mullin’s seat, which will be up for election in January 2027. According to Oklahoma state law, any appointee to fill Mullin’s seat temporarily must sign an affidavit stating they will not run for a full term. This stipulation effectively removes Hern from consideration should Governor Kevin Stitt appoint a temporary replacement, and positions him to compete for the full six-year term. The unfolding situation presents a unique political dynamic in Oklahoma, with a potential Cabinet departure and a swiftly developing Senate contest.
Mullin’s Nomination and the Open Senate Seat
The opportunity for a new Senate candidate arose last week when Trump announced his intention to replace Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem with Senator Mullin. Trump described Mullin as a “great friend” and expressed his eagerness to work with him in the Cabinet role. Mullin, who won a 2022 special election to fill the seat previously held by retiring Senator Jim Inhofe, has publicly acknowledged a positive relationship with the former president, stating he “look[ed] forward to working with him in his Cabinet.”
Should Mullin’s nomination be confirmed by the Senate, Governor Stitt will be tasked with appointing someone to serve until the next general election. However, the state law regarding affidavits prevents the governor from selecting a candidate who intends to run for the full term, creating a clear path for Hern and potentially other contenders to vie for the position.
Hern’s Background and Political Experience
Hern has served in the House of Representatives since 2018, currently holding the position of chairman of the House Republican Policy Committee. He also serves on the House Ways and Means Committee, giving him experience in key legislative areas. Before entering politics, Hern was a successful businessman, owning multiple McDonald’s franchises and other ventures. He highlighted his background growing up on an Air Force base, building businesses, and serving in Congress as preparation for representing Oklahoma in the Senate, according to a recent statement.
Rep. Kevin Hern announced he’s running for the U.S. Senate seat currently held by Markwayne Mullin. [Video: NEWS9 on Facebook]
The Road Ahead
The race for Oklahoma’s Senate seat is expected to become increasingly competitive as more candidates potentially enter the field. Hern is the first to formally announce his candidacy, but other prominent Oklahoma Republicans may also consider a run. The confirmation process for Mullin’s nomination as Homeland Security Secretary will be a key factor in determining the timeline for the Senate race.
The unfolding events highlight the interconnectedness of federal appointments and state-level elections. The outcome of Mullin’s confirmation and the subsequent Senate race will have significant implications for Oklahoma’s representation in Washington, D.C. And the balance of power in the Senate.
As the Senate considers Mullin’s nomination and potential candidates emerge, Oklahoma voters will be closely watching the developments. The coming months will be crucial in shaping the future of the state’s representation in the U.S. Senate.
What are your thoughts on Rep. Hern’s decision to run for Senate? Share your opinions in the comments below and join the conversation.
