Robert Franklin Wins Republican Nomination for Oklahoma State Superintendent

Education veteran Robert Franklin secured the Republican nomination for Oklahoma State Superintendent of Public Instruction on Tuesday, winning 54% of the vote in a primary runoff. Franklin, a former CareerTech superintendent with over 40 years of experience, defeated James Taylor, a history teacher and pastor who held the backing of the Oklahoma GOP.

Franklin campaigned on a back-to-basics platform focused on strengthening fundamental academics, improving literacy through the science of reading, and expanding career and technical education. He positioned himself as a seasoned leader capable of depoliticizing the office, contrasting his approach with the tenure of former superintendent Ryan Walters. Franklin criticized Walters for polarizing leadership and the injection of Christian nationalism into academic standards, arguing that bombastic leadership and name-calling contributed to a workforce crisis.

Following his victory, Franklin emphasized that teachers are the solution to educational challenges and called for a shift toward collaboration and listening. He has previously opposed publicly funded religious schools, stating there is no place for religion in public schools.

Franklin will face Democratic nominee Jennettie Marshall in the general election on November 3. Marshall, a former member of the Tulsa Public Schools board for eight years, has prioritized teacher retention and the restoration of leadership within the Oklahoma State Department of Education.