Left, Senator Greg McCortney (R-Ada) and Right, Senator Lonnie Paxton (R-Tuttle) were both recently appointed to high levels in the Oklahoma State Senate. McCortney and Paxton are both Choctaw tribal members.
McCortney and Paxton assume high-level positions in Oklahoma State Senate
January 1, 2022
DURANT, Okla. – Two Choctaw tribal members have assumed high-level appointments in the Oklahoma State Senate. Senator Greg McCortney (R-Ada) was selected to serve as Majority Floor Leader, making him the second-ranking member of the body. Senator Lonnie Paxton (R-Tuttle) was selected to serve as Assistant Majority Floor Leader, making him the third-ranking member of the body.
The two appointments were announced by Oklahoma Senate President Pro Tempore Greg Treat on October 27, 2021.
According to Treat, McCortney, will take over the duties of majority floor leader from Sen. Kim David, (R-Porter).
Additionally, Treat stated that Paxton would join Sen. James Leewright, (R-Bristow,) as an assistant majority floor leader. The appointments took effect immediately for McCortney and Paxton, making them the highest-ranking Choctaw members in the Oklahoma Senate, according to available records.
“These two Choctaw tribal members exemplify the character and leadership we embrace as a people,” said Gary Batton, Chief of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. “Having Choctaw tribal members help lead the state makes us very proud.”
“Throughout his time in the Senate, Greg McCortney has proven himself to be an insightful leader and skilled legislator. I know Greg will serve the Senate and the state of Oklahoma well as majority floor leader,” Treat said.
For more information and to stay up-to-date on what is happening in the Oklahoma State Senate, visit oksenate.gov.