Trump-backed businessman Mike Mazzei looks to secure GOP nomination for Oklahoma governor

Tulsa businessman Mike Mazzei triumphed in the Republican primary for Oklahoma governor on Tuesday, securing the nomination after benefitting from President Donald Trump's social media attacks on his rival, Attorney General Gentner Drummond. Trump endorsed Mazzei in May and labeled Drummond a "FAKE Republican" during a post on Truth Social.

The 61-year-old candidate, who previously served in the state Senate for 12 years, narrowly beat Drummond in the first round of voting, with both candidates receiving around 26% of the vote. The nine-person field saw a total of over $14 million spent on television and digital ads during the 10-week runoff campaign, with much of the content being negative.

Trump's support for Mazzei was evident in a Monday evening call to Oklahoma Republicans, where he disparaged Drummond, calling him a "disaster." Drummond, a rancher, attorney, and former Air Force jet pilot, conceded the race but maintained that the governor should serve all Oklahomans, not just those who contribute large amounts of money to campaigns.

The 62-year-old Drummond praised Trump as a great leader despite his criticism. Both candidates criticized current Gov. Kevin Stitt, with Drummond citing Stitt's eight years in office as marked by "mediocrity and flipping."