Republican gubernatorial candidate’s campaign loans near $13M

OKLAHOMA CITY – Republican gubernatorial nominee Mike Mazzei has loaned himself nearly $1.9 million more to fuel his campaign for governor, according to campaign finance reports.

That brings the total that the Republican has loaned his campaign to nearly $13 million, a record for a gubernatorial candidate, according to the reports that document campaign contributions and spending from Aug. 19 until Oct. 19. 

Mazzei had raised nearly $3.5 million in other contributions, records show, bringing his total to $16.5 million, including the money he’s loaned himself.

He had about $1.6 million on hand.

His campaign did not respond to a request for comment. 

Mazzei previously told Oklahoma Voice that he views those personal loans as a “good investment” in Oklahoma, and said he was not sure he would receive enough donations to offset all the debt. The Oklahoman in June had reported that Mazzei put up some business assets as collateral.

Mazzei faces Democratic nominee Cyndi Munson, 41, on the Nov. 3 general election ballot.

The Oklahoma Ethics Commission on Tuesday was having technical issues. Munson’s most recent report was not available.

Munson’s campaign did not respond to a request for comment.

Independents Jerry Griffin, 82, of Tulsa, Robert E. Brooks Sr., 47, of Moore, and Orlando Lynn Bush, 61, of Edmond are also on the ballot.

Republican Gov. Kevin Stitt cannot run again due to term limits.

Whoever Oklahomans elect as their next governor on Nov. 3 will be paid $185,000 a year, according to Senate staff.