Hornback, Rep. Boles announce campaigns for Corporation Commission

Two Republicans have announced their candidacies for the Corporation Commission seat currently held by Todd Hiett (R): current State Rep. Brad Boles (R-Marlow) and two-time candidate Justin Hornback. Hornback finished 3rd in the 2022 GOP primary with 20.4% (narrowly missing a runoff with eventual winner Dana Murphy) and placed 2nd in the 2024 GOP primary with 28.7%. In the middle of his fourth legislative term, Boles has held the House District 51 seat since winning a special election in 2018 (he has not faced a challenger since).

Both candidates' press release announcements are below:

Justin Hornback Announces Candidacy for Oklahoma Corporation Commission, Pledges Transparency, Communication, and Industry Experience

Broken Arrow, OK (May 15th) – Justin Hornback today announces his candidacy for the Oklahoma Corporation Commission, building on his previous campaign and reaffirming his commitment to serving the people of Oklahoma.

"The 2024 primary results underscored a growing sentiment among Oklahoma voters: they are seeking more than just candidates with name recognition from years in politics. Oklahomans want a Corporation Commissioner who will prioritize hard work, dedication, and a genuine commitment to serving Oklahoma, rather than simply continuing a political career."

Hornback's campaign will focus on three core principles: transparency, communication, and industry experience.

"The Oklahoma Corporation Commission plays a vital role in our state, and it's crucial that it operates with openness and accountability," said Hornback. "I believe my experience in the energy sector, combined with a dedication to clear communication, will allow me to effectively serve the interests of both consumers and industry."

Hornback's three-point platform emphasizes:

• Transparency: Hornback is committed to ensuring the Commission's decisions and processes are easily accessible and understandable to the public. He pledges to be open and responsive to inquiries from all stakeholders.
• Communication: A cornerstone of Hornback's campaign is a commitment to proactive and transparent communication. He will foster a collaborative environment where the Corporation Commission actively engages with Oklahoma residents, elected representatives, and industry leaders. To ensure his accessibility and responsiveness, Hornback shares his personal contact information, inviting open dialogue and direct feedback on critical issues.
• Industry Experience: With a background in the energy sector, including experience as a pipeline worker, welding inspector, and specialist of safety and health, Hornback possesses firsthand knowledge of the challenges and opportunities facing Oklahoma's vital industries. This experience equips him with the insights needed to make informed decisions.

Hornback's career in the energy industry has provided him with a unique perspective on the issues facing the Corporation Commission. He understands the importance of balancing responsible regulation with the need to support economic growth and development in Oklahoma.

"I am running for Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner because I believe I can bring a fresh perspective and a strong work ethic to this important office," Hornback stated. "I am dedicated to serving the people of Oklahoma, ensuring that our energy resources are developed responsibly, our utilities remain reliable and affordable.”

Hornback is a Republican and the only announced candidate for this race. The election for the Oklahoma Corporation Commission will be held on November 3, 2026. 

The Corporation Commission is comprised of three Commissioners that serve staggered six-year terms, with one seat voted on every two years.

Brad Boles Announces Campaign for Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner

MARLOW, OKLAHOMA (June 17th) — Conservative leader, businessman, and State Representative Brad Boles announced today that he is officially launching his campaign for Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner. With a proven track record of conservative leadership, private sector success, and deep experience in Oklahoma's critical energy, utility, and manufacturing industries, Boles brings unmatched qualifications to the role.

"The Corporation Commission plays a vital role in protecting Oklahoma consumers, ensuring fair utility rates, supporting responsible energy development, and maintaining the infrastructure that powers our state’s economy," said Boles. "I am running to bring strong conservative leadership, real-world business experience, and a pro-growth, pro-jobs vision to the Commission."

A lifelong Oklahoman, Boles graduated from college with an MBA in Finance and is a third-generation business owner who helped grow his family’s manufacturing company, Wilco, from 100 employees to nearly 500 before its sale to a Fortune 500 company. Under his leadership, Wilco was recognized as the fastest-growing privately owned manufacturing company in Oklahoma and the 30th fastest in the nation by Inc. Magazine. Boles went on to co-found Philtek Services, which has grown to over 100 employees across eight states and was recently named one of the fastest-growing private companies in America by Inc. Magazine.

In addition to his business leadership, Boles has served his community in numerous roles, including Mayor of Marlow, President of the Marlow Chamber of Commerce, School Board Member, and Deacon and Treasurer at First Baptist Church Marlow. Since 2018, he has represented Grady and Stephens Counties in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, where he currently serves as Chairman of the House Energy & Natural Resources Oversight Committee.

Boles has earned multiple statewide awards for his work in the Legislature, including:

• 2021 Legislator of the Year, Association of County Commissioners of Oklahoma
• 2023 Legislative Advocate of the Year, Oklahoma Manufacturing Alliance
• 2024 Legislator of the Year, Petroleum Alliance of Oklahoma
• 2025 Economic Development Legislator of the Year, Select Oklahoma

Boles was also the author of the landmark Behind the Meter legislation, which Governor Kevin Stitt has called "potentially the most transformational economic development policy in state history," driving billions in new investments into Oklahoma’s energy sector.

"Oklahoma is blessed with abundant natural resources and some of the best energy producers and job creators in America," Boles said. "As Corporation Commissioner, I will fight every day to protect ratepayers, support our oil and gas and utility sectors, and ensure Oklahoma remains a national leader in energy production, economic development, and job creation."

Brad and his wife Michelle are college sweethearts and have been married for 19 years. They live in Marlow and are the proud parents of two children, Kristin (14) and Matthew (12).