Incumbent Loses In Republican Runoff For Oklahoma County Clerk

Oklahoma County Clerk Carolynn Caudill lost Tuesday night in a runoff election against Republican challenger David B. Hooten.

Hooten won with 66 percent of the vote.

Hooten is a professional musician and music teacher, and he founded the Children’s Music Foundation Education Foundation. He was endorsed by Gov. Mary Fallin and state Sen. Ervin Yen of Senate District 40.

Caudill held the county clerk position for 20 years and struggled during this election cycle, especially after former Gov. Frank Keating spoke out and refuted a postcard suggesting that he endorsed Caudill.

6/24/2016 Related Story: Former Gov. Keating Says Caudill Endorsement Is Untrue

In 2013, Caudill was arrested on suspicion of DUI. 

“I am thankful for the support of Oklahoma County voters,” Hooten said. “Change was desperately needed in the county clerk’s office, and I want to thank all my campaign volunteers and supporters who helped make this change happen."

Hooten faces libertarian challenger Chris Powell in November.