OKMULGEE, OK — The Henryettan is once again stepping up to bring meaningful civic engagement to the forefront. On Thursday, May 1, 2025, at 6:30 PM, we’ll proudly host a live Oklahoma State Senate District 8 Candidate Debate at Green Country Technology Center in Okmulgee. Doors open to the public at 6:00 PM, and all residents across the district are encouraged to attend or tune in online for this vital event.

Confirmed candidates participating in the debate include:

🟦 Nathan Brewer (Democrat – Henryetta)

Nathan Brewer, a small business owner from Henryetta, entered the race following the tragic loss of his daughter, Brittany Brewer, in 2023. His campaign is centered on:

• Child Protection & Public Safety: Advocating for “Knight’s Law,” which mandates that individuals convicted of severe child sex crimes serve 100% of their sentences.

• Healthcare Access: Aiming to enhance rural healthcare services, with a particular focus on mental health support.

• Community Engagement: Emphasizing the importance of listening to constituents to effectively represent their concerns at the State Capitol.

🟨 Steve Sanford (Independent – Henryetta)

Steve Sanford, owner of Rustlers BBQ and Vice Mayor of Henryetta, is running as an independent with priorities that include:

• Economic Development: Working to attract jobs to rural communities.

• Education: Collaborating with educators to better prepare youth for future opportunities.

• Support for Small Businesses: Seeking ways to assist local entrepreneurs in achieving success.

• Recreational Infrastructure: Focusing on the preservation and maintenance of state and city parks for public enjoyment.

🟥 Bryan Logan (Republican – Paden)

Bryan Logan, a pastor, general contractor, and cattle rancher from Paden, secured the Republican nomination with a platform emphasizing:

• Agricultural Protection: Safeguarding farmlands and advocating for rural landowners against corporate encroachment.

• Education Reform: Pushing for increased funding and infrastructure improvements in rural schools.

• Healthcare Access: Addressing the challenges of “healthcare deserts” by improving medical services in under-served areas.

• Conservative Values: Promoting Christian conservative principles and taking a firm stance on Second Amendment rights.

All three candidates have officially confirmed their attendance.

The evening will be co-moderated by Brad Nash and Amber Lee Mordecai, both respected for their work in public dialogue and community engagement. The debate is produced by Kjell Jansson, Editor-in-Chief of The Henryettan & The Oklahoma News-leader – The Henryettan

This isn’t just another political forum—it’s an invitation for voters to hear directly from the individuals seeking to represent District 8 during one of the most consequential election cycles in recent memory.

🎯 Debate Format:

• The first portion of the debate will feature pre-planned questions curated by The Henryettan team and moderators.

• The final segment is dedicated entirely to community-submitted questions—giving YOU the chance to shape the conversation.

🗳️ Got a question for the candidates?
Send it to editor@thehenryettan.com by April 30 to be considered for the live event.

📡 Watch Live Online

If you can’t make it in person, don’t worry. The full debate will be broadcast live on:

• YouTube: TheHenryettanTV

• Facebook: Henryettan Online

Don’t just watch the headlines—help shape them. This is your opportunity to learn, question, and make informed choices about who will represent your voice at the state level.

🙌 Special Thanks to Our Sponsors

This live debate and its streaming production would not be possible without the generous support of local businesses that care about transparency, community, and civic dialogue.

HENRYETTA:
Kelch’s Total Comfort · Joy In Life · QuickMed Health · Rheba’s Buds and Blooms · AEB American Exchange Bank · Shoney’s & Cheezie’s Pizza · OK Insure · 3 Bears Sales & Rentals · Burnett Furniture · Don Miguel’s Mexican Restaurant · RE/MAX Double Diamond Properties · The Schack 2.0 · Outcast Tint & Detail

WELEETKA:
Embroidery Plus

OKMULGEE:
Elder Bros Distillery · Work Ready Okmulgee · Green Country Technology

🗓️ Mark your calendars, invite your neighbors, and let’s show up—online or in person—to keep democracy strong in District 8.