N'kiyla Jasmine Thomas Wins Oklahoma Democratic Senate Primary Runoff

Progressive nurse and activist N'kiyla Jasmine Thomas won the Oklahoma Democratic Senate primary runoff against centrist Jim Priest on Tuesday. The victory by Thomas highlights growing momentum for progressive candidates running in conservative strongholds.

The Associated Press projected Thomas's victory in the June primary follow-up within an hour after polls closed. Thomas secured 59.9% of the vote compared to Priest's 40.1% once election officials tallied 80% of the ballots.

Neither candidate secured a majority during the initial five-way primary. Thomas previously led the field with 45% of the vote, while Priest, an attorney and ordained minister, finished second with 24%.

Throughout her campaign, the 31-year-old Chickasaw Nation citizen aligned with socialist policies and prioritized civil rights, women's health, and LGBTQIA+ protections. She repeatedly pledged to reject financial support from the American Israel Public Affairs Committee during her campaign run.

Although AIPAC did not participate in the race, Thomas posted a social media video in November showing her pulling a giant red trash bin marked with labels reading "AIPAC Funds" and "Corporate PAC Funds."

"I am a sole grassroots candidate," said N'kiyla Jasmine Thomas, Oklahoma Democratic Senate candidate. "And we are not accepting AIPAC or corporate PAC funds. It's garbage."

The progressive activist clarified her position on the influential pro-Israel lobby in a written statement sent to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency regarding her campaign rhetoric.

"concerns [with AIPAC] have NEVER been about Jewish people, Judaism, or Israel's existence," said Thomas.

She explained that her focus centers on government accountability and fundamental human rights for civilians.

"When I discuss political influence or organizations, my focus is on the broader role of money, lobbying, and special interests in our political system, not on any one religion or community," said Thomas.

During a debate held on Saturday, both Democratic candidates used the term "genocide" when discussing the conflict in Gaza. Priest referenced Israel directly, whereas Thomas focused her criticism on Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu.

She argued that voters can support Jewish communities while simultaneously opposing the actions of the Israeli prime minister.

"He is committing genocide. He is absolutely murdering children," said Thomas. "We have to stop providing funding for these wars."

In her statement to the Jewish Telegraphic Agency, Thomas emphasized her support for a two-state framework in the Middle East.

"both Israelis and Palestinians deserve the opportunity to live in peace, security and self-determination," said Thomas.

The Democratic nominee advances to the November general election as a heavy underdog against Republican Representative Kevin Hern. Hern secured his party's nomination and holds an endorsement from President Donald Trump in a state that last elected a Democratic senator over 30 years ago.