Information about Judicial Races in Oklahoma Elections

Judicial races are always on the ballot with the Governor, therefore, every four 
years.  There is never a special election called for a vacancy.  If a vacancy 
occurs for whatever reason with an existing position, the Governor appoints a 
replacement until the vacancy can be placed on the ballot.  This is currently 
happening with the retirement of Judge Lucas.  Governor Fallin will appoint a 
replacement through 2014.

Senate Bill 820 moved one District Judge position from Seminole County to 
Cleveland County.  Again, there is never a special election called for judicial 
positions.  This new position will appear on the 2014 ballot(s).

Judicial candidates file at the State Capitol during the 2014 filing dates, April 
9-11.  These candidates do not declare a party and will check the box that says 
Judicial on the Declaration of Candidacy Form.  

If two or more candidates file for the position, there will be a Primary 
Election.  The top two candidates will appear on the General Election ballot.  If 
only two candidates file, then the winner is the candidate who receives 50% 
plus one vote (simple majority).  

In the 2010 Elections we had a Primary in four district judge races, each race 
had three or more candidates, and a General Election for the same four 
positions.