Pugh Files for State Superintendent, Launches Statewide Campaign

Senate Education Chairman enters race focused on strong schools, empowered parents, great teachers, and accountability

OKLAHOMA CITY – Oklahoma Sen. Adam Pugh on Wednesday filed his candidacy for Oklahoma state superintendent, launching a statewide campaign focused on putting students first, supporting great teachers, empowering parents, expanding educational opportunity, and bringing accountability to the department.

“Oklahomans are ready for an education leader with vision who puts students first, respects parents, supports teachers, and delivers results,” Pugh said. “I’ve led in the military, in business, and in the Senate, and I’m running for state superintendent to bring that leadership and focus to Oklahoma education so every student has the opportunity to succeed.”

Pugh said his campaign will focus on four priorities: recruiting and retaining great teachers, expanding opportunities for every student to succeed, giving parents a stronger voice and better options, and making sure more education dollars reach the classroom. He said those priorities reflect what he has heard from teachers, parents, and education leaders across Oklahoma and his belief that lasting progress will require a broad coalition focused on better student outcomes.

“Oklahoma’s teachers deserve a state superintendent who will back them up and give them the freedom to teach,” Pugh said. “Parents deserve a real voice in their children’s education, real choices, and real transparency. Not every school has to look the same, but every kid deserves the same opportunity at an education that prepares them for success.”

Pugh, R-Edmond, has served in the Oklahoma Senate since 2016 and currently chairs the Senate Education Committee. He has led on teacher pay, literacy initiatives, and giving schools more flexibility to align education with their community’s workforce needs.

A former Air Force officer and small business owner, Pugh said he would bring conservative leadership, fiscal discipline, and clear accountability to the state superintendent’s office.

“I have spent my time in the Senate fighting for students, parents, and teachers, and I am running because I believe Oklahoma can lead the nation with the right vision for education,” Pugh said. “We need high standards, strong schools, and leadership that puts families first.”

“As I have traveled across Oklahoma, I have been humbled by the support and encouragement we have received from families, teachers, and community leaders,” Pugh said. “I would be honored to earn your continued support and your vote on June 16.”

Pugh and his wife, Sarah, live in Edmond and have three children in public schools. He is a member of the Edmond VFW and American Legion, serves on leadership councils for the YMCA, the University of Central Oklahoma, and the OU Price College of Business. He holds a bachelor’s degree from the University of Pittsburgh, a master’s in international relations from Troy University, and an MBA from the University of Oklahoma.