Alan Armstrong Appointed to Fill Oklahoma Senate Vacancy

In a swift move to maintain Oklahoma’s representation in Washington, Governor Kevin Stitt appointed Tulsa energy executive Alan Armstrong to the U.S. Senate on Tuesday, March 24, 2026.

Armstrong, the former CEO and current executive chairman of Williams Companies, will fill the seat vacated by Markwayne Mullin, who was confirmed by the Senate just yesterday to lead the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

A “Non-Political” Business Pick

Governor Stitt emphasized that the selection of Armstrong was driven by a desire for “business acumen” and a deep understanding of the energy sector rather than political ideology.

• Energy Expertise: Under Armstrong’s leadership, Williams Companies became a dominant force in natural gas infrastructure, handling roughly one-third of the natural gas used in the U.S. daily. Stitt noted that Armstrong is uniquely positioned to help drive permitting reform legislation, a top priority for the administration.
• Temporary Tenure: Under Oklahoma law, Armstrong must sign an affidavit pledging not to run for the seat in the upcoming November special election. His role is strictly as a “caretaker” to finish out the year.
• Mar-a-Lago Meeting: The appointment followed a weekend meeting at Mar-a-Lago between Armstrong, Stitt, and the President to align on policy goals, particularly regarding energy independence and infrastructure.

Conservative Controversy

Despite the “business pick” framing, the appointment has drawn sharp criticism from some hardline conservative circles.

• The Kinzinger Donation: Critics have pointed to a maximum campaign contribution Armstrong made in 2021 to former Representative Adam Kinzinger, a vocal Republican critic of the President.
• The “Consensus” Reputation: Former Tulsa Mayor Dewey Bartlett Jr. described Armstrong as an “even-tempered individual” focused on consensus, which some activists fear may lead to “moderate” voting patterns in a highly polarized Senate.

The Road to November

Armstrong’s arrival does not change the balance of power in the Senate, where Republicans currently hold a 53-47 majority. However, it sets the stage for a high-stakes battle to fill the seat permanently this fall.

Rep. Kevin Hern has already emerged as the frontrunner for the permanent seat, having secured an early endorsement from the President.