OKLAHOMA CITY — The Republican race for Oklahoma attorney general turned sharply personal Monday night as candidates Jeff Starling and Jon Echols sparred over lobbying work, political connections and conservative credentials, offering a preview of what could be one of the cycle’s most combative intraparty contests.
During a debate hosted by NonDoc and News 9 at Oklahoma City’s Will Rogers Theatre, the two Republican contenders repeatedly interrupted and challenged each other while discussing immigration enforcement, tribal relations, government corruption and the role of the attorney general’s office.
Echols, a former Oklahoma House majority floor leader, sought to cast Starling as an establishment insider closely aligned with Gov. Kevin Stitt’s administration. Starling, who serves as Oklahoma’s secretary of energy and environment, countered by criticizing Echols’ lobbying and business background, including his work in the private sector, according to NonDoc.
The candidates engaged in pointed exchanges over tribal gaming disputes and whether the state should continue aggressive legal battles with tribal governments. Starling argued Oklahoma must assert its sovereignty more forcefully, while Echols said the attorney general must balance toughness with workable relationships, according to NonDoc.
Immigration policy also drew contrasts. Echols pointed to legislation he supported in the House targeting undocumented immigrants and emphasized stricter enforcement, while Starling said the attorney general should more aggressively challenge federal immigration policies in court.
The debate frequently turned combative, with both candidates accusing the other of representing insider interests or failing to stand firmly on conservative principles — a tone that reflects rising stakes in a race opened by Attorney General Gentner Drummond’s decision to run for governor instead of seeking reelection.
Original reporting by NonDoc: Read the full story
