Trump flips endorsement in Oklahoma House race as first pick drops out

President Donald Trump on Wednesday flipped his endorsement in the race to succeed Rep. Kevin Hern, R-Okla., after his original candidate dropped out over a sexting scandal.

The Trump-endorsed Jackson Lahmeyer advanced to a runoff this week, but suspended his campaign on Wednesday. He placed second behind Mark Tedford, whom Trump endorsed after Lahmeyer dropped out.

"I greatly appreciate Jackson Lahmeyer’s hard work under difficult circumstances — He has always been with me, and I will always be with him," he posted on Truth Social. "But, when it comes to the current Congressional race for Oklahoma’s 1st Congressional District, I will be supporting America First Patriot, Mark Tedford. Mark is Pro Trump and MAGA all the way! A Proven Leader, Mark has served his Community as a Highly Respected State Legislator and Businessman, prior to running for Congress. Mark Tedford has my Complete and Total Endorsement to be the next Representative from Oklahoma’s 1st Congressional District — HE WILL NEVER LET YOU DOWN!"

Lahmeyer announced the end of his campaign in an X statement, asserting he did not want to become a "distraction" for his church or community.

"After prayerful consideration with my wife, Kendra, and my team over the last twenty four hours, I've made the difficult decision to suspend my campaign for Congress," he said.
"I do not want to be a distraction to my family, my church, and the great people of Oklahoma's 1st Congressional District, who deserve a strong conservative voice representing them in Washington.

I sincerely appreciate all the support along the way. I will never forget those who stood by me and fought alongside us when I needed them the most."

Ben Whedon is the Chief Political Correspondent for Just the News. Follow him on X.