Oklahoma’s 5th Congressional District Democratic primary features Trey Martin and Jena Nelson, two candidates focusing on working-class issues as they vie for a chance to challenge Republican Congresswoman Stephanie Bice in November.
Working-Class Concerns
Both candidates are emphasizing affordability, health care, and education in their campaigns. Martin, an ironworker and union president, and Nelson, a longtime educator and former Teacher of the Year, are highlighting their connections to the working class.
“I’m a working-class guy. I come from everyday struggles,” Martin said. “My campaign is all about representing the majority of Oklahomans, which is the working class. These are the people that need help the most or the people that keep this country running,” he added.
Health care is a deeply personal issue for Martin, who shared that his wife’s illness several years ago motivated him to run. “Health care is something that’s really, really close to me. My wife, several years ago, she got really sick. She dropped down to about 70 pounds. And it was really hard on us,” he said.
Nelson, who spent 16 years in education and ran for state superintendent in 2022, is focusing on education, health care, and the cost of living. “Education and public education in particular is under attack. And last but not least, is definitely the cost of living. We’re all feeling it right now,” Nelson said.
Primary Election
The winner of the Democratic primary will face Bice in November as Democrats aim to flip this key district. The primaries are scheduled for June 16.
Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
