Oklahoma Election turnout high for both big parties, Libertarians will keep ballot slot

OKLAHOMA CITY – In a statement the morning after the November 6 election, Oklahoma State Election Board Paul Ziriax commented: 
We are extremely pleased with voter turnout in [the state] election. With nearly 1.2 million votes cast and turnout over 56 percent, this election ranks head and shoulders above any gubernatorial year turnout since at least 1986, and by a wide margin.
“Good voter participation is a sign of a healthy democracy, and Oklahomans should be proud of their engagement in the election process this year. We have set modern records for the number of candidates to file for office, turnout in a gubernatorial year primary election and turnout in a gubernatorial year general election. This is a banner year for elections in Oklahoma.” 

In contrast to events in several states – where results were not clear for near two weeks –  analysts have commented that Oklahoma’s vote-counting process was smooth and certain, with results clear just a few hours the polls closed.  

Although Reublicans dominated statewide, Democrats made significant gains in Oklahoma City. 
In an exchange with CapitolBeatOK, Ziriax said the state Libertarian Party secured more than enough support (in two statewide races, to maintain a ballot position for the coming election cycle.

State Election Board secretaries in Oklahoma work for the Senate President Pro Temp (presently Greg Treat, an Oklahoma City/Edmond Republican). By law, the election secretary is also secretary of the state Senate.
Ziriax is expected to remain in his position.