BROKEN ARROW, Okla. — What started as a weekend of powerful speeches about justice, equity, and the future of democracy ended in a decisive vote that removed the Oklahoma Democratic Party’s first Black woman chair from leadership.
Over two intense days in Broken Arrow, the party’s state convention became a crossroads for national voices, local organizers, and disillusioned delegates—many of whom were vocal about their frustration with internal procedures and the direction of the party. The gathering highlighted long-standing tensions within the Oklahoma Democratic Party, culminating in a leadership election that signaled more than just a change in personnel—it marked a turning point.
Justice Leaders Rally Delegates with Urgent Calls for Action
On Saturday, the “Fight Back Luncheon” brought out bold voices from across the country. Tennessee State Rep. Justin J. Pearson, known nationally for his fiery speeches and resistance to Republican overreach, called on Democrats to reclaim their courage. Tamya Cox-Touré of the ACLU Oklahoma urged delegates to stay vigilant in protecting civil liberties, while Heather Rahhal Palascios of Planned Parenthood Great Plains emphasized the urgency of reproductive justice.
Texas Congressman Al Green, who was censured earlier this year for interrupting former President Trump’s speech slashing Medicaid, reminded the crowd that protest and policy must go hand in hand. His words resonated with many in the room who have grown tired of status-quo politics.
“The Fight Back luncheon was just what was needed to fuel the fight against Authoritarianism, tyranny, corruption and more. Congressman Al Green had his famous cane to drive it home. Ohio State representative, Justin Pearson was a passionate speaker who style bares resemblance between Dr. King and Malcolm X,” D’Marria Monday, a social justice advocate wrote on Facebook.
Michelle Deatrick, chair of the DNC’s Climate Council, called attention to the systemic neglect of frontline communities—particularly Black, Indigenous, and rural towns—in national climate planning. She warned of how agencies like FEMA are being used as political tools. “Just Tuesday, the DOD stopped reporting the key data hurricane forecasters need,” Deatrick told BWST. “They are still collecting it, but they aren’t going to report it. It’s cruel. It’s reckless. And it’s just stupid.”
Delegates Reject E-Voting, Elect New Chair in Decisive Leadership Shift
By Sunday, the emotional high of Saturday’s panels had worn thin, replaced by fatigue and friction. Leaders presented delegates with a proposal to allow partial electronic voting to streamline the election. After a lengthy debate, delegates rejected the motion. Delegates chose to uphold traditional in-person voting—a move that underscored deep concerns about trust, transparency, and procedural fairness.
Then came the moment everyone had been waiting for: the vote for state party chair.
Waldron Wins Chair, Promising Grassroots Power and Unity
In a three-way race, State Rep. John Waldron of Tulsa was elected chair of the Oklahoma Democratic Party, succeeding Alicia Andrews. Waldron, a former high school social studies teacher and current representative for District 77, won the election outright with 321 votes (56.2%). Andrews, who served from 2019 to 2025 and was the first Black woman to lead the party, garnered 139 votes (24.4%). Kevin Dawson, a well-known union advocate, received 100 votes (17.5%).
Waldron’s election, decided on the first ballot, represents a clear pivot in leadership style and strategic focus. Where Andrews brought historic representation and financial stability to the party, Waldron enters with promises of deeper voter engagement, greater internal transparency, and an emphasis on grassroots organizing. His victory reflected not just a preference for a new leader but a broader hunger for change.
In his first remarks as Chair, Waldron emphasized unity and urgency:
“This was a team effort, as our mission to take back Oklahoma will be a team effort. Together we will rebuild the Democratic coalition. Together we will fight for racial justice, good public schools for everyone, for healthcare, and for human rights. We will take the fight to Ryan Walters and the forces of Christian Nationalism.”
For Andrews, the defeat marked a difficult and abrupt end to a groundbreaking tenure. Her leadership brought milestones the party had never seen before—and she did it in one of the most conservative states in the country. Yet, delegates made it clear they want more than symbolism; they want a roadmap for power.
In a statement provided to The Black Wall Street Times, Andrews reflected on her tenure and expressed continued commitment to the party’s future:
“While the election did not go my way, I am incredibly proud of what we accomplished during my tenure as Chair of the Oklahoma Democratic Party. We resolved years of lingering debt, launched a statewide rural RV tour to meet voters where they are, and hosted the record-breaking Carl Albert Dinner of 2025. As a sixth-generation Oklahoman and a die-hard Democrat, I remain committed to the success of the Oklahoma Democratic Party. I wish Chairman Waldron and his team the very best as they lead us into this next chapter.”
Oklahoma Democrats Push for Power Built from the Ground Up
As Waldron assumes his new role, he inherits a party divided but energized. Delegates demand structural change and cultural transformation that centers grassroots organizers, communities of color, and younger progressives. The question now is whether Waldron can unify the party around shared goals and convert convention energy into electoral momentum.
One thing is certain: Oklahoma Democrats reject business as usual. They’re ready to fight forward.