Oklahoma Senate Changes Leadership Ahead of 2025

The Oklahoma Democratic Caucus is transitioning leadership as Sen. Kay Floyd steps down due to term limits, with Sen. Julia Kirt set to take over. Meanwhile, the Republican majority has selected Sen. Lonnie Paxton as the next Senate president pro tempore, defeating Sen. David Bullard in a close vote of 20-19. Paxton, who has been in the Senate since 2016, aims to focus on economic development, education, and public safety in his new role. Key leadership posts have also been assigned, with Sen. Chuck Hall as Senate Appropriations chairman and Sen. John Haste as vice chairman. The formal vote for Paxton’s position will occur on January 7 during the Senate's organizational day. Both parties are preparing for the upcoming 2025 legislative session with new and returning members.