Paxton officially becomes Oklahoma Senate president pro tempore

OKLAHOMA CITY (OBV) — Sen. Lonnie Paxton was officially named the Oklahoma State’s president pro tempore on Tuesday.

A full Senate vote confirmed Paxton, R-Tuttle, as the Senate’s new pro tem.

The vote was 39-8, falling along party lines.

“It is the absolute honor of a lifetime to be voted on by my peers to hold this prestigious title,” Paxton said. “I humbly thank the members of the Senate who voted for me today and have entrusted me with this distinction. I will do everything in my power to ensure the integrity and honor of the Senate is upheld and will always do what is right for the citizens of the state of Oklahoma. Together, we have proven that when the Oklahoma Senate works with purpose, determination and unity, we can deliver results that positively impact the lives of Oklahomans.

The Senate Republican Caucus nominated Paxton to be the next pro tem in November.

Paxton’s professional career includes owning a local business, farming and volunteering as a firefighter. He’s been a member of the State Senate since 2016.

“I thank my family, friends, citizens of District 23 who have continued to elect me to the Senate and especially my wife Misti, who all have shown their confidence in me to assume this new role,” Paxton said. “The Senate will continue to be at the forefront of advancing policies that will make Oklahoma a better place to live, work and raise a family. I look forward to continuing this important work. Oklahoma’s best days are ahead of us.”

The new pro tem named key members of his leadership team soon after being nominated. He appointed chairs and vice chairs to the Senate’s various committees in December. He also recently announced full Senate committee appointments.

Paxton previously told Oklahoma Business Voice that he has a wide range of priorities for the 60th Oklahoma Legislature, including reducing the personal income tax, growing the workforce through career-readiness education, developing the economy through business recruitment, building infrastructure and making childcare more accessible and affordable for Oklahomans.

He succeeds former Pro Tem Greg Treat, R-Oklahoma City, in the position. Treat termed out of office.