Russell wins bid for 5th District

Steve Russell, a retired U.S. Army officer who stressed his faith, military experience, and constitutional principles defeated Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner Patrice Douglas Tuesday to stand as the Republican candidate in the general election for Oklahoma's 5th Congressional District.

Russell will face Democrat Al McAffrey in the November general election in his effort to succeed Rep. James Lankford in Congress. Most pundits give Russell the best odds to win as the the seat is expected to be retained by Republicans.

Coverage of the victory speech is provided by NewsOk.com below.

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With all of 273 precincts counted, Russell, 51, captured 59 percent of the vote. Russell had the backing of state and national groups aligned with the tea party including 1st District Congressman Jim Bridenstine, while Douglas attracted support from much of the Oklahoma City business establishment, including executives of energy companies and utilities regulated by the Corporation Commission.

“I am humbled to be your choice,” Russell told supporters at his watch party, saying he had been outspent by Douglas but not “outmaneuvered.”