Mayoral election in Tulsa, Oklahoma (2024)

Oklahoma 2024 elections

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<- 2020

2024 Tulsa elections

Election dates
Filing deadline: June 12, 2024
General election: August 27, 2024
Runoff election: November 5, 2024
Election stats
Offices up: Mayor
Total seats up: 1 (click here for other city elections)

Election type: Nonpartisan
Other municipal elections
U.S. municipal elections, 2024

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Monroe Nichols defeated Karen Keith in the general runoff election for Mayor of Tulsa on November 5, 2024.

Seven candidates ran in the August 27 general election. No candidate received a majority of the vote, requiring a runoff. Nichols received the most votes with 33.1%, Keith received the second most with 32.6%. Brent VanNorman was the third-highest vote-getter in the general election with 31.8%. Incumbent G. T. Bynum did not run for re-election.

Following the election, VanNorman requested a recount, as state law permits any candidate on the ballot regardless of margin. Tulsa County District Court Presiding Judge Dawn Moody approved the recount could proceed on September 5.[1][2] To learn more about the recount, click here

Keith and Nichols were both affiliated with the Democratic Party. Tulsa voters have not elected a Democratic mayor since Kathy Taylor was elected in 2006. The last two mayors, Bynum and Dewey Bartlett Jr., were both affiliated with the Republican Party.[3][4]

The November runoff was the first time since voters passed an initiative to eliminate partisan city officer elections in 2011 that all mayoral candidates were Democrats.[5]This was also the second time since Tulsa started holding nonpartisan municipal elections that a mayoral race has advanced to a runoff. The first time was in 2013.[6] This was Tulsa's fourth mayoral election since switching to a nonpartisan election system, meaning 50% of mayoral elections under the nonpartisan system have advanced to a runoff. Click here to see Tulsa's past mayoral election results.

Keith had served on the Tulsa County Board of Commissioners since 2008. Before holding elected office, she was a television news anchor, reporter, and executive producer, and Director of Community Relations and Vision Implementation for former Tulsa Mayor Bill LaFortune.[7]

Keith ran on her record. Her campaign website said, "From addressing issues at the county jail to combating crime, working on juvenile justice, improving our streets, and addressing homelessness, Karen has a track record of leadership and getting things done."[7] In a campaign video on her website, Keith said, "My vision for Tulsa is quite straightforward: A city that's safe, with top-notch schools, well-maintained streets and abundant opportunities and affordable housing... You can be sure I will stand up for public education."[7]

Nichols had served in the Oklahoma House of Representatives representing District 72 since 2016. Before he was elected, he was a mayoral aide, chief of staff to a university president, and an economic development director. Nichols also served as the Director of Policy and Partnerships for StriveTogether, a national nonprofit focused on student success.[8][9]

Nichols' campaign website says, "During his career at the capitol, he has been a leading voice on education, healthcare, criminal justice reform, and economic growth."[9] As mayor, Nichols' campaign website says he "will work tirelessly to end homelessness, invest in education, expand our economy, and ensure Tulsa is the safest big city in America."[9]

Tulsa does not have term limits for the position of mayor. Mayors serve a four-year term.

As of August 2024, the partisan breakdown of mayors of the 100 largest U.S. cities was 63 Democrats, 25 Republicans, one Libertarian, four independents, and five nonpartisans. Two mayors' partisan affiliations are unknown. Click here to learn more about the partisan affiliations of mayors in the 100 largest cities.

## Contents

* 1 Election recount
* 1.1 Recount timeline
* 1.2 Recount laws in Oklahoma
* 2 Elections
* 3 Candidates and results
* 4 Additional elections on the ballot
* 4.1 Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey responses
* 4.2 Candidate profiles
* 4.3 Mayoral partisanship
* 4.4 What was at stake?
* 4.4.1 Report a story for this election
* 4.4.2 Candidate survey
* 4.5 About the city
* 4.5.1 City government
* 4.5.2 Demographics
* 4.6 See also
* 4.7 External links
* 4.8 Footnotes

## Election recount[edit]

Based on the Oklahoma State Election Board website, Nichols received 18,763 votes, Keith received 18,471 votes, and VanNorman received 18,035 votes in the November 5 general election.[10] At the time of the election, Oklahoma allowed any candidate on the ballot to request a recount regardless of margin. Tulsa County District Court Presiding Judge Dawn Moody approved the recount could proceed on September 5.[2] The recount concluded on September 10. Based on the final results, Nichols received 18,752 votes, Keith received 18,458 votes, and VanNorman received 18,021 votes.[11]

### Recount timeline[edit]

Click below to view a timeline of the recount, including rulings and vote totals.

* Recount updates

* September 10, 2024: The recount concluded and the Tulsa County Election Board Secretary Gwen Freeman announced that the original outcome of the top two candidates being Monroe Nichols and Karren Keith would stand.[11]
* September 5, 2024: Tulsa County District Court Presiding Judge Dawn Moody held a hearing to determine whether the recount would proceed. Moody approved the recount.[12][2]
* August 30, 2024: VanNorman's campaign filed a recount petition with the Tulsa County Election Board.[13]

### Recount laws in Oklahoma[edit]

See also: Recount laws in Oklahoma

The list below shows answers to common questions regarding recounts in Oklahoma.[14]

* Does state law require automatic recounts?
* No.
* When must an automatic recount be completed?
* There are no automatic recounts in this state.
* Can a recount be requested?
* Yes, the recount can be requested by 5:00 p.m. on the Friday after the election. There is no margin required for a candidate-requested recount. Requirements for voter-requested recounts of non-statewide ballot measures vary and can be found below. There is no deadline for completion.
* Who pays for a requested recount?
* The requester.
* Is a refund available for requested recount costs?
* Yes. Costs paid by the requester are refunded if the recount changes the election outcome. A requester might receive a refund if the amount paid was greater than the actual cost of the recount.
* Can a partial recount be requested?
* Yes

## Elections[edit]

Click on the tabs below to show more information about those topics.

# Candidates and results[edit]

#### General runoff election

##### General runoff election for Mayor of Tulsa

Monroe Nichols defeated Karen Keith in the general runoff election for Mayor of Tulsa on November 5, 2024.

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

| Monroe Nichols (Nonpartisan) |

55.6

| 76,300

| Karen Keith (Nonpartisan) |

44.4

| 60,873

* * *

There were no incumbents in this race. Source

| Total votes: 137,173

|
|

= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

#### General election

##### General election for Mayor of Tulsa

The following candidates ran in the general election for Mayor of Tulsa on August 27, 2024.

Candidate

Votes

|
|
|

| Monroe Nichols (Nonpartisan) |

33.1

| 18,729

| Karen Keith (Nonpartisan) |

32.6

| 18,457

| Brent VanNorman (Nonpartisan) |

31.8

| 18,019

| Casey Bradford (Nonpartisan) |

1.5

| 823

| John Jolley (Nonpartisan) |

0.6

| 366

| Kaleb Hoosier (Nonpartisan) |

0.2

| 105

| Paul Tay (Nonpartisan) |

0.2

| 86

* * *

There were no incumbents in this race. Source

| Total votes: 56,585

|
|

= candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey.
If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey.

Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team.

# Additional elections on the ballot[edit]

See also: Oklahoma elections, 2024

What's on your ballot?

Find out using Ballotpedia’s Sample Ballot Tool

##### February 13, 2024

* Tulsa Public Schools, Oklahoma, elections (2024)
* Union Public Schools, Oklahoma, elections (2024)
* Bixby Public Schools, Oklahoma, elections (2024)
* Catoosa Public Schools, Oklahoma, elections (2024)
* Owasso Public Schools, Oklahoma, elections (2024)

##### April 2, 2024

* Tulsa Public Schools, Oklahoma, elections (2024)
* Union Public Schools, Oklahoma, elections (2024)
* Bixby Public Schools, Oklahoma, elections (2024)
* Catoosa Public Schools, Oklahoma, elections (2024)
* Owasso Public Schools, Oklahoma, elections (2024)

##### June 18, 2024

* Oklahoma's 1st Congressional District election, 2024
* Oklahoma's 3rd Congressional District election, 2024
* Oklahoma Corporation Commission election, 2024
* Oklahoma State Senate elections, 2024
* Oklahoma House of Representatives elections, 2024
* Municipal elections in Osage County, Oklahoma (2024)
* Municipal elections in Tulsa County, Oklahoma (2024)

##### August 27, 2024

* Oklahoma State Senate elections, 2024
* Oklahoma House of Representatives elections, 2024
* Municipal elections in Tulsa County, Oklahoma (2024)
* City elections in Tulsa, Oklahoma (2024)
* Mayoral election in Tulsa, Oklahoma (2024)

##### November 5, 2024

* Oklahoma's 1st Congressional District election, 2024
* Oklahoma's 3rd Congressional District election, 2024
* Oklahoma Corporation Commission election, 2024
* Oklahoma State Senate elections, 2024
* Oklahoma House of Representatives elections, 2024
* Oklahoma Supreme Court elections, 2024
* Oklahoma intermediate appellate court elections, 2024
* Oklahoma State Question 833, Public Infrastructure Districts Amendment (2024)
* Oklahoma State Question 834, Citizenship Requirement for Voting Amendment (2024)
* Municipal elections in Osage County, Oklahoma (2024)
* Municipal elections in Tulsa County, Oklahoma (2024)
* City elections in Tulsa, Oklahoma (2024)
* Mayoral election in Tulsa, Oklahoma (2024)

## Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey responses[edit]

Ballotpedia asks all federal, state, and local candidates to complete a survey and share what motivates them on political and personal levels. The section below shows responses from candidates in this race who completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.

Survey responses from candidates in this race

Click on a candidate's name to visit their Ballotpedia page.

Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.

Expand all | Collapse all

Please list below 3 key messages of your campaign. What are the main points you want voters to remember about your goals for your time in office?

John Jolley (Nonpartisan)

I will support the Tulsa Public School System (TPS), which My Daughter is a Student. I believe a City is 'only' as good as its Public School System.

I will support Local Control of TPS and the Leadership of Superintendent Dr. Ebony Johnson. There are Many Fine Individuals in the TPS System (Teachers, Administrators, Coaches, etc.) Who Deserve the Support and Respect of Our City.

I want to continue Tulsa's Progress in its Aid of its 'Misplaced' Citizens. There will not be any kind of quick fix, for this 'misplacement' has been expanding since the early 1980's. The recent 'Darkness' of the Pandemic has only expanded the crisis, for Our World has changed. Most of Us are 'only' one Financial or Medical Hardship from joining those unfortunate souls fighting for Survival through Desperation. Tulsa must do what it can as the City (working with the various non-profits already engaged in the war) helps its Citizens get back on Their Feet with Opportunities. Opportunities that can lead to Belief, for without Belief in Oneself - There is no hope for a better future.

Growth and Prosperity - Tulsa must continue to evolve (as it has been doing), for its Future depends on it. Technology, Aeronautics, Entertainment (in both Music and Film), Manufacturing, and Distribution have and should continue to be at the forefront of this.

None of Us are going get off this World Alive; therefore, it is Our Job to leave Our Beloved City of Tulsa a Better Place for Those Who are to Follow.

Brent VanNorman (Nonpartisan)

Tulsa needs to become more business friendly. a. First, City Hall must become customer centric - citizens are our customers. Second, we must incentivize new businesses coming to Tulsa and existing businesses expanding in Tulsa. Third, is to minimize red tape, including compressing the permitting process.

Address Public Safety Issues of high crime and homelessness. First, is a major recruiting effort for hiring police officers. Second, we must recognize homelessness is primarily a drug addiction and mental health issue. Yes, the homeless need a place or they won’t go to appointments. But we must enforce Tulsa's no-camp ordinance to ensure the streets are safe and our homeless have a facility they can sleep safely in that offers care.

Making Tulsa a more affordable place to live and raise a family. Generations of Tulsans have built families, started businesses, and invested in the future. We must lower housing costs through new home ownership incentives, reduce the tax burden for hardworking families, and bring new opportunities to Tulsa.

What areas of public policy are you personally passionate about?

John Jolley (Nonpartisan)

As Previously Stated, My am Passionate about the Public Education of the Youth of Tulsa (for a City is only as Good as its Public Schools), Aiding the City's 'Misplaced' Folks in Need, and the Continuation of Growth and Prosperity as Tulsa continues to Evolve.

Brent VanNorman (Nonpartisan)

I am passionate about shrinking the city government's overhead structure, allowing us to reduce taxes. We continually add departments, but rarely do we close any down. The city also offers some services that compete with the private sector. To the extent a service can effectively be provided by the private sector where there is competition, the city should either eliminate or greatly reduce involvement.

Who do you look up to? Whose example would you like to follow, and why?

John Jolley (Nonpartisan)

My Father and My Uncle.

They were Brothers and Best Friends. They grew up broke Brothers on a Dirt Farm in Tennessee. They were the Same - full of Integrity, Honor, Compassion, Strength, Kindness, Warmth, and Love They were Different. My Father was Compassionate to All, but Selective regarding Friends. He was also a quiet Man of Warmth. My Uncle was a 'Bigger then Life' Man, full of Joy and Laughter. Both were Loved and Respected by All. They both overcame their oppressed youthful years to become Stronger and Better Men, with My Pop silently carrying his PTSD within from His Years in WWII. These two (2) Great Men became Greater and Better Men then their Father and Showed My Older Sisters, All My Cousins, and Me how to Live with Integrity and Honor.

They were all about Love.

Brent VanNorman (Nonpartisan)

Jesus - he was the only perfect person to ever walk the earth. He came to serve and not be served. Very few people have a problem with Jesus - it's with those of us that don't represent him very well.

Is there a book, essay, film, or something else you would recommend to someone who wants to understand your political philosophy?

John Jolley (Nonpartisan)

I am a Huge Fan of Harry S. Truman and Teddy Roosevelt for Their Integrity, Honor, Compassion, and Strength.

For President Truman, I would recommend David McCullough's 'Truman'.

For President Teddy Roosevelt, I would recommend Doris Kearns Goodwin's 'The Bully Pulpit'

Brent VanNorman (Nonpartisan)

The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People.

What characteristics or principles are most important for an elected official?

John Jolley (Nonpartisan)

Integrity, Honor, Compassion, and Strength.

Brent VanNorman (Nonpartisan)

Integrity and transparency. Trust must be earned, but it is vital in order to lead. The government must also be transparent with its citizens, even when the news is bad or mistakes have been made. Competence. Elected officials should bring a skillset to the office that allows them to perform at a high level. No official knows it all. But great leaders know when to ask questions and bring in others with expertise to address problems and create solutions.

What qualities do you possess that you believe would make you a successful officeholder?

John Jolley (Nonpartisan)

Integrity, Compassion, Kindness, and Honor.

Brent VanNorman (Nonpartisan)

Competence and integrity. I believe my experience in business, ministry and the law uniquely qualify me to serve in public office. Further, I always strive to be completely truthful and have zero desire here for personal reward.

What do you believe are the core responsibilities for someone elected to this office?

John Jolley (Nonpartisan)

The Ability to Own both Your Successes and (more importantly) Your Failures.

Brent VanNorman (Nonpartisan)

The Mayor of Tulsa is the CEO of the city. The mayor must be both a visionary and an implementer. The mayor must be able manage people and motivate them to bring out their best. The mayor must be able to build a strong team with competent people that can be trusted to carry out the vision.

What legacy would you like to leave?

John Jolley (Nonpartisan)

Being remembered as a Good Man and Leaving the World a Better Place. I also want the People that I leave behind being full of Independence, Happiness, and Self Respect.

Brent VanNorman (Nonpartisan)

I want to set Tulsa up to be successful for generations to come. I want my grandkids to love growing up in Tulsa so much that they stay here and raise their families here.

What is the first historical event that happened in your lifetime that you remember? How old were you at the time?

John Jolley (Nonpartisan)

The Horrific Events of 1968 - the Assassinations of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and Bobby Kennedy (Age 6).

I was in Memphis as a Kid with My Family (with Memphis been a two hour train ride to the south) during the 'Refuse Strike' of '68, that ultimately resulted in the Death of Dr. King by a Moronic Hateful Individual.

Apollo 11 landing on the Moon in 1969 (Age 7).

I felt the Horrific Emotions felt by My Family in '68 and the Excitement and Pride felt by My Family in '69.

Brent VanNorman (Nonpartisan)

Man landing on the moon. I was nine.

What was your very first job? How long did you have it?

John Jolley (Nonpartisan)

Being a Petroleum Engineer for 15 years. My First Year was working offshore for Kerr-McGee. The following 14 were spent in Tulsa at Samson Resources and others.

Brent VanNorman (Nonpartisan)

A paper route that I started when I was ten. I believe I had it for about four years.

What is your favorite book? Why?

John Jolley (Nonpartisan)

I would have two (2):

'Seabiscuit: An American Legend' by Laura Hillenbrand. This is a Story of Magic and Inspiration, as Three (3) Broken Men come together behind a Broken Horse and Rise to Greatness, during America' Great Depression.

'The Boys In The Boat' by Daniel James Brown. This true Story of a Nine (9) Young Men of America's Northwest, coming from Nothing during the Times of the Great Depression, Rising to Greatness as They make both a Life and Political Statement by Defeating Hitler in the 1936 Berlin Olympics. This is one of those rare books, where one re-centers His or Her Life. You appreciate what You have. You witness the Power of Teamwork, Perseverance, Commitment, and Belief.

You acknowledge the tough times of Our Past and the Heroes that Powered through Them.

Brent VanNorman (Nonpartisan)

The Bible. It is the source of wisdom and provides incredible direction to those that will follow its teaching.

If you could be any fictional character, who would you want to be?

John Jolley (Nonpartisan)

Owen Meany

Brent VanNorman (Nonpartisan)

Superman.

What was the last song that got stuck in your head?

John Jolley (Nonpartisan)

Peter Gabriel 'Biko' (from this AM)

Brent VanNorman (Nonpartisan)

Fancy Like (Walker Hayes).

What is something that has been a struggle in your life?

John Jolley (Nonpartisan)

Forgiving Myself for Making Decisions as a young Man of 18 and 20.

The Decisions only affected Me, as I made Decisions involving My Future Career(s). These Decisions by a Young Man led to feelings of Regret, Remorse, and Guilt - ultimately leading to feelings of Depression. It was 'only' during the moments of Desperation, during the recent 'Darkness' of the Pandemic, that I was able to Look at My Life and Forgive Myself (for those decisions made by a young Man so long ago).

I have truly been Blessed in Life with My Daughter, My many, many Beloved Friends, My Mentors (Family Members, Teachers, etc), and My Health.

Brent VanNorman (Nonpartisan)

Probably finding that "one thing" (from the movie City Slickers). I've had multiple interests, which have resulted in a couple "restarts." So could I have accomplished more if I had found that "one thing" early in life.

A mayor is a leader in his or her city. What does that mean to you?

John Jolley (Nonpartisan)

Being Accountable. Try to Do What is Right (no matter how popular the decision may be). Leading with Integrity, Compassion, and Honor.

Brent VanNorman (Nonpartisan)

It means you set the direction and the pace for the city. Leaders need to listen and be able to assimilate the feedback coming from constituents, employees and other elected officials. But then the leader needs to be decisive in setting direction and be willing to take certain risks in order to move the city forward. A leader admits when he/she makes a mistake, asks for forgiveness and then moves forward, hopefully having learned from the experience.

If the mayor in your city is a member of the city council and there's a city manager appointed to handle the day-to-day administration of the city government, what do you believe should be the mayor's top priority in office?

John Jolley (Nonpartisan)

Leading His City with Honor, Integrity, Compassion, and Strength.

Brent VanNorman (Nonpartisan)

N/A. The Mayor in Tulsa is also the City Manager.

If the mayor in your city is not a member of the city council and oversees the day-to-day administration of the city government, what do you believe is the ideal relationship between the mayor and city council?

John Jolley (Nonpartisan)

Working Together side by side to make the City a Better Place to be.

Brent VanNorman (Nonpartisan)

It must be collaborative. The mayor needs to listen to City Council, develop relationships with each member and be willing to work together to accomplish goals. Two of Covey's habits that are critical here as "seek first to understand, then to be understood," and "see the win-win." Both require hard work, but the benefits are enormous.

What do you love most about your city?

John Jolley (Nonpartisan)

The People. This is Why I Love My City of Tulsa. We are not Perfect, but We are Kind, Compassionate, and full of Grace.

The People of Tulsa are Why I have chosen to call Tulsa Home for over 40 years.

I also Love the Beauty of Tulsa - the Parks, the Art Deco Architecture, Music, etc.

Brent VanNorman (Nonpartisan)

For a city of our size, we have something for everyone. The amenities in Tulsa are unparalleled for a city our size. The arts are incredible, including our symphony orchestra, opera, numerous galleries and museums. We have terrific parks, including The Gathering Place. There are hundreds of great restaurants. Traffic issues are minimal. All major forms of transportation are here (air, water, rail and interstate highways).

What do you perceive to be your city's greatest challenges over the next decade?

John Jolley (Nonpartisan)

To Continue to Evolve in Order to Grow and Prosper.

Brent VanNorman (Nonpartisan)

Attracting new business and growing the businesses that are already here. Reducing crime and homelessness.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between your city and the state government?

John Jolley (Nonpartisan)

To Be a City that Supports the People of the State. Yet, Tulsa must make decisions on what is Best for The City. Without doing this, the City will be weakened, for It will not have its Own Identity.

Brent VanNorman (Nonpartisan)

The state should be there to coordinate between the cities and to offer services that the city cannot provide itself. City and state leaders need to communicate frequently to avoid overlapping and duplicative services that are inefficient and costly to taxpayers.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between your city and the federal government?

John Jolley (Nonpartisan)

Tulsa should be Supportive of the Laws and Direction of the United States of America, for without Standing Together as One - Our Country is weakened. Once again (as stated before) Tulsa must make Decisions based on What is Best for It (decisions that will in no way harm or conflict with Our Great Country).

Brent VanNorman (Nonpartisan)

Overall, I'd like to see the federal government secure our borders, provide great interstate highways and fill the gaps that the state and city cannot provide.

Tell us your favorite joke.

John Jolley (Nonpartisan)

Don't have one...

Brent VanNorman (Nonpartisan)

What do attorneys use for birth control? Answer: Their personalities.

What do you believe is the ideal relationship between the mayor's office and law enforcement?

John Jolley (Nonpartisan)

To Respect Each Other and Work Together to Insure a Happy and Safe Place to Live as One.

Brent VanNorman (Nonpartisan)

The Chief of Police serves at the pleasure of the mayor. They need to have a very close working relationship that is built on trust and honesty. The mayor should be the police's biggest cheerleader, but also must be willing to recognize when the police make a mistake. I believe in "defending," not "defunding" the police.

What organizations or individuals have endorsed your campaign?

John Jolley (Nonpartisan)

More Friends and Family Members then I can count.

Brent VanNorman (Nonpartisan)

Kevin Hern, U.S. House of Representatives

John O'Connor, Former Oklahoma Attorney General Mark Tedford, Oklahoma House of Representatives Dana Prieto, Oklahoma Senate Chris Banning, Oklahoma Senate David Been, Former Tulsa Chief of Police Paula Marshall, CEO, Bama Companies Michael Krimbill, CEO, NGL Energy Partners

Women For Tulsa

What are your views on financial transparency and government accountability?

John Jolley (Nonpartisan)

I am all for Transparency and Accountability in Government. If those being served (as members of a City, State, or National Government) lose Belief in their respective Government (and its leaders) Chaos and a Possible Downfall can occur.

Brent VanNorman (Nonpartisan)

Financial transparency and accountability must be the foundation of any administration. There can be no secrets, no back room deals and no self-serving decisions.

## Candidate profiles[edit]

This section includes candidate profiles that may be created in one of two ways: either the candidate completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey, or Ballotpedia staff may compile a profile based on campaign websites, advertisements, and public statements after identifying the candidate as noteworthy. For more on how we select candidates to include, click here.

John Jolley

Do you have a photo that could go here? Click here to submit it for this profile!

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography: "I am the current Owner of Big Guys, Inc. (an Indoor Billboard Company for Tulsa and the surrounding area). I have owned and operated this Business for 29 years. Prior to going into the Advertising Business, I was a Petroleum Engineer for 15 Years (14 years in Tulsa and 1 year working offshore out of New Orleans, LA). Tulsa has been My Home for 42 Years. I first came here in 1982 to obtain a Degree in Petroleum Engineering from the University of Tulsa, after spending My First Two (2) Years of College at the U.S. Naval Academy. I am a Single Father of a Wonderful, Magical Daughter. I grew up in a small town located on the State Line of Southwest Kentucky and Northwest Tennessee - the 'Twin Cities' of Fulton, Kentucky and South Fulton, Tennessee. My Home was in Kentucky, but much of My Time (outside of playing Sports) was spent on Our Family Farm in Tennessee - 'JolleyLand'."

* * *

Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

* * *

I will support the Tulsa Public School System (TPS), which My Daughter is a Student. I believe a City is 'only' as good as its Public School System. I will support Local Control of TPS and the Leadership of Superintendent Dr. Ebony Johnson. There are Many Fine Individuals in the TPS System (Teachers, Administrators, Coaches, etc.) Who Deserve the Support and Respect of Our City.

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I want to continue Tulsa's Progress in its Aid of its 'Misplaced' Citizens. There will not be any kind of quick fix, for this 'misplacement' has been expanding since the early 1980's. The recent 'Darkness' of the Pandemic has only expanded the crisis, for Our World has changed. Most of Us are 'only' one Financial or Medical Hardship from joining those unfortunate souls fighting for Survival through Desperation. Tulsa must do what it can as the City (working with the various non-profits already engaged in the war) helps its Citizens get back on Their Feet with Opportunities. Opportunities that can lead to Belief, for without Belief in Oneself - There is no hope for a better future.

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Growth and Prosperity - Tulsa must continue to evolve (as it has been doing), for its Future depends on it. Technology, Aeronautics, Entertainment (in both Music and Film), Manufacturing, and Distribution have and should continue to be at the forefront of this. None of Us are going get off this World Alive; therefore, it is Our Job to leave Our Beloved City of Tulsa a Better Place for Those Who are to Follow.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Mayor of Tulsa in 2024.

Brent VanNorman

Incumbent: No

Political Office: None

Submitted Biography: "I am 64 years old and have been married to my wife, Marsha, for 41 years. We have two children and three grandchildren. My undergrad degree was in accounting and computer science. I worked for an international CPA firm for almost nine years doing system consulting work. I then attended seminary, planted a church, and was a pastor for nearly ten years (bi-vocational for much of that time). I then went to law school and practiced law with an international law firm for thirteen years as a patent attorney, primarily focused on complex patent litigation. In addition to this experience, I have been in executive management of a title insurance company, an impact investing firm, and a software company. I currently am an adjunct professor teaching intellectual property online for Liberty University."

* * *

Key Messages

To read this candidate's full survey responses, click here.

* * *

Tulsa needs to become more business friendly. a. First, City Hall must become customer centric - citizens are our customers. Second, we must incentivize new businesses coming to Tulsa and existing businesses expanding in Tulsa. Third, is to minimize red tape, including compressing the permitting process.

* * *

Address Public Safety Issues of high crime and homelessness. First, is a major recruiting effort for hiring police officers. Second, we must recognize homelessness is primarily a drug addiction and mental health issue. Yes, the homeless need a place or they won’t go to appointments. But we must enforce Tulsa's no-camp ordinance to ensure the streets are safe and our homeless have a facility they can sleep safely in that offers care.

* * *

Making Tulsa a more affordable place to live and raise a family. Generations of Tulsans have built families, started businesses, and invested in the future. We must lower housing costs through new home ownership incentives, reduce the tax burden for hardworking families, and bring new opportunities to Tulsa.

This information was current as of the candidate's run for Mayor of Tulsa in 2024.

## Mayoral partisanship[edit]

Tulsa has a Republican mayor. As of November 2024, 63 mayors in the largest 100 cities by population are affiliated with the Democratic Party, 25 are affiliated with the Republican Party, one is affiliated with the Libertarian Party, four are independents, five identify as nonpartisan or unaffiliated, and two mayors' affiliations are unknown. Click here for a list of the 100 largest cities' mayors and their partisan affiliations.

Mayoral elections are officially nonpartisan in most of the nation's largest cities. However, many officeholders are affiliated with political parties. Ballotpedia uses one or more of the following sources to identify each officeholder's partisan affiliation: (1) direct communication from the officeholder, (2) current or previous candidacy for partisan office, or (3) identification of partisan affiliation by multiple media outlets.

## What was at stake?[edit]

### Report a story for this election[edit]

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### Candidate survey[edit]

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## About the city[edit]

See also: Tulsa, Oklahoma

Tulsa serves as the county seat of Tulsa County, the most densely populated county in Oklahoma, and extends into Osage, Rogers, and Wagoner counties. As of 2020, its population was 413,066.

### City government[edit]

See also: Mayor-council government

The city of Tulsa uses a strong mayor and city council system. In this form of municipal government, the city council serves as the city's primary legislative body and the mayor serves as the city's chief executive.[15]

### Demographics[edit]

The following table displays demographic data provided by the United States Census Bureau.

Demographic Data for Tulsa, Oklahoma

| Tulsa | Oklahoma
Population | 413,066 | 3,959,353
Land area (sq mi) | 197 | 68,596
Race and ethnicity**
White | 63.3% | 71.1%
Black/African American | 15% | 7.3%
Asian | 3.5% | 2.2%
Native American | 4.5% | 7.7%
Pacific Islander | 0.1% | 0.2%
Two or more | 8.9% | 8.7%
Hispanic/Latino | 17.1% | 10.9%
Education
High school graduation rate | 87.8% | 88.6%
College graduation rate | 31.3% | 26.1%
Income
Median household income | $49,474 | $53,840
Persons below poverty level | 18.3% | 15.3%
Source: population provided by U.S. Census Bureau, "Decennial Census" (2020). Other figures provided by U.S. Census Bureau, "American Community Survey" (5-year estimates 2015-2020).
**Note: Percentages for race and ethnicity may add up to more than 100 percent because respondents may report more than one race and the Hispanic/Latino ethnicity may be selected in conjunction with any race. Read more about race and ethnicity in the census here.

## See also[edit]

Tulsa, Oklahoma | Oklahoma | Municipal government | Other local coverage

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* 2020 Tulsa mayoral election

* Tulsa, Oklahoma
* Cities in Oklahoma
* Tulsa County, Oklahoma

* 2024 Oklahoma elections
* Public policy in Oklahoma
* Endorsers in Oklahoma
* Oklahoma

* Top counties
* 100 largest cities
* Current mayors
* Current council officials

* 2024 municipal elections
* 2024 school board elections
* 2024 local ballot measure elections
* 2024 local judicial elections

## External links[edit]

* Search Google News for this topic
* City of Tulsa

## Footnotes[edit]

1. ↑ KTUL-TV, "Tulsa judge to rule on mayoral recount request as candidates await decision," September 3, 2024
2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 Tulsa World,"Update: Recount for mayoral race begins: City Council recount verifies Jackie Dutton's win," September 5, 2024
3. ↑ https://tulsaports.com/board/dewey-follett-bartlett-jr/ Tulsa Ports, "Dewey Follett Bartlett, Jr.," accessed August 29, 2024
4. ↑ YouTube, "A Republican mayor's plan to replace partisanship with policy | G.T. Bynum," January 1, 2018
5. ↑ News On 6, "Tulsa Voters Reject City Government Overhaul Propositions," November 8, 2011
6. ↑ [https://tulsaworld.com/news/bartlett-triumphs-in-tulsa-mayoral-race/article_8e8bfe9d-6849-5522-9b94-24bfb5400d21.html Tulsa World, "Bartlett Triumphs in mayoral race," August 29, 2024.
7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 7.2 Karen Keith 2024 campaign website, "Home," accessed August 28, 2024
8. ↑ LinkedIn, "Monroe Nichols, accessed August 29, 2024
9. ↑ 9.0 9.1 9.2 Monro Nichols 2024 campaign website,"Meet Monroe, accessed August 28, 2024
10. ↑ OKelections.gov, "Local Results: City of Tulsa," accessed September 3, 2024
11. ↑ 11.0 11.1 Fox 23 News, "Recount of Tulsa mayoral election complete, overall results remain the same," September 10, 2024
12. ↑ KJRH, "Tulsa court rules recount can begin in Tulsa mayoral election," September 5, 2024
13. ↑ Tulsa World, "Brent VanNormal seeking recount of Tulsa Mayoral Election Results," August 30, 2024
14. ↑ [https://law.justia.com/codes/oklahoma/title-26/ Oklahoma State Statutes, "26-8-109 to117," accessed April 17, 2024]
15. ↑ Tulsa City Charter, "Art. II & III," accessed September 2, 2014

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