Oklahoma Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell has officially endorsed former state senator Mike Mazzei in his bid for governor, adding his support to Mazzei’s campaign as the Republican candidate seeks to succeed Governor Kevin Stitt.

Stitt, a Republican, won the state in both his 2018 and 2022 elections by double digit percentages. He is unable to run for another term in 2026 due to term limits. Stitt has also endorsed Mazzei, who previously served as his Secretary of Budget in 2019, in the race.

In the announcement of the endorsement, Pinnell praised Mazzei’s experience and record in Oklahoma politics as well as his ability to work with others to address policy challenges. “Republicans are united behind Mike Mazzei because he has the experience, the record, and a clear plan to make Oklahoma the best state in America to live, work, build a business, raise a family, and retire,” Pinnell said.

Pinnell went on to highlight affordability as a major issue facing Oklahoma families and pointed to several priorities that he said Mazzei would pursue if elected governor. According to Pinnell, Mazzei would seek to eliminate Oklahoma’s state income tax, abolish property taxes for seniors and veterans, establish a statewide literacy program, expand economic growth and defend what he described as the state’s core values.

Pinnell, in his role as Lieutenant Governor, serves as acting-Governor in the case of incapacitation or death of the sitting Governor. The endorsement gives Mazzei the backing of a statewide elected Republican as the race for Oklahoma's executive draws closer to November. Pinnell’s endorsement also marks the Republicans coming together after a divided primary as they prepare for a competitive gubernatorial contest. Mazzei will face the Democratic nominee Cyndi Munson in the general election.

For Mazzei, the endorsement provides another prominent Republican voice supporting his bid. Pinnell's support has him joining President Donald Trump, Secretary of Homeland Security Markwayne Mullin, and Arkansas Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders in backing Mazzei as he works to build support among Oklahoma voters ahead of the 2026 election.

Oklahoma is considered a deep red state. Cook Political Report rates this race a "Solid R". As of this publication, prediction markets have Mazzei as the overwhelming favorite.