Patrick Ford
News Editor
After Tuesday’s Primary and Special Elections, Okmulgee County District 2 will have a new Commissioner.
In a three-way race for the post, Steve Ward collected over 70 percent of the vote to defeat incumbent David Walker and challenger Ivan Funk.
Ward had 489 ballots cast in his favor, with Walker taking 157 or 22.53 percent of the final tally.
There were 697 votes cast in the race, with totals being unofficial until this afternoon.
In a post following the election, Ward stated:
“I am deeply humbled by the outpouring of support from the voters. I look forward to working hard for our District. Thank you.”
Tonya Day will retain her seat as Okmulgee County Clerk after she defeated challenger Tiffany Withrow, 1,130 to 377, with almost 75 percent of the votes in her favor.
“Hey guys, I just wanted to thank each and every one of you for everything. Whether it was letting me put a sign in your yard, voting for me, or sending up a prayer, I really appreciate it. But most of all, I want to thank God. Without Him, none of this would be possible. He gets all the glory,” Day stated after her win.
The City of Henryetta’s Proposition to continue their sales tax also was approved. Of the 329 ballots cast, there were 218 in favor of the proposition which extends the current 1% sales tax until Sept. 30, 2034. The tax was set to end Sept. 30 of this year.