My name is Michael Burrage, and I grew up in southeast Oklahoma. I do not often speak out publicly about political campaigns, but the future of Oklahoma will be affected by which candidate wins the Republican runoff for Governor on August 25.
I was honored to graduate from college at Southeastern Oklahoma State University in Durant and the University of Oklahoma College of Law. I learned so much about my home state and its people when I served as a federal judge in the Eastern District of Oklahoma in Muskogee from 1994 to 2001.
I have been a lawyer and judge now for 52 years and I admit I have grave concerns about the 2026 Republican runoff for Governor regarding three issues: (1) I am a proud member of the Choctaw Nation and know firsthand what good things the tribal nations have done for the entire state. Economists tell us the tribes contribute nearly $25 billion to the state economy each year, supporting nearly 140,000 total jobs for both Native and non-Native residents. That economic engine keeps cities and towns thriving by helping small businesses and contributing hundreds of millions of dollars to local schools.
Only one Republican candidate for Governor, Attorney General Gentner Drummond, has openly supported the tribal nations in legal and political battles. I am confident that General Drummond will continue to uphold the sovereignty of the nations and bring them into a full partnership with the State of Oklahoma. We are all Oklahomans.
(2) It is vital to our future that justices and judges of our highest courts are unbiased and provide a fair playing field for all parties. I believe Gentner Drummond will appoint judges who are fair and impartial. But I am fearful about what kind of judges other candidates would appoint. If we don’t have an independent judiciary, we all lose.
(3) Oklahomans pay the highest homeowners insurance rates in the nation, and we are all upset. Gentner Drummond has filed lawsuits against two of the largest insurance companies for not fairly paying claims, especially claims for hail and wind damage to policyholders’ roofs. His opponent has supported the insurance companies, who in turn are supporting him.
I love Oklahoma and want the best for my children and grandchildren. It is my firm and humble belief that Gentner Drummond will lead Oklahoma to a brighter future. Thank you for allowing me to express my personal opinion.
Judge Michael Burrage is a native of Antlers, Oklahoma, and now practices law in Oklahoma City. He was the first Native American federal judge in the nation’s history.