Oklahoma Early Voting Begins: Scandals and Residency Allegations Overlook McCurtain County Commissioner Runoffs

IDABEL, Okla. — In-person early voting officially commenced across Oklahoma today, August 20, 2026, ahead of the high-stakes August 25 primary runoff elections. While the state’s headline races focus on the Republican gubernatorial nomination between Gentner Drummond and Mike Mazzei, and State Questions 844 and 846, local county races are drawing intense scrutiny. In McCurtain County, the spotlight has turned to heated Republican primary runoffs for county commissioner seats, where candidates are facing fierce pushback over their past histories.

Top State and Local Races on the Ballot

Voters across the state are heading to local election boards between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. today and Friday to cast early ballots. Major statewide contests include runoffs for State Superintendent, Insurance Commissioner, Labor Commissioner, and the Democratic nomination for U.S. Senate.

Locally, the McCurtain County Commissioner races have emerged as a battleground of controversies regarding the personal character and legal troubles of the candidates.

District 3: Johnny Caldwell's Background Questioned

In McCurtain County Commissioner District 3, candidate Johnny Caldwell is facing Mitch Bishop in the Republican runoff. While Caldwell's campaign has emphasized messages of "fiscal responsibility" and "business-minded leadership", local critics and voters have loudly targeted his background on social media.

Voters on local Facebook forums have highlighted a history of multiple business failures, challenging his claims of financial stewardship. Caldwell has also faced accusations of poor ethics and hostile behavior in Facebook comments and public posts, where community members claim he and his supporters have routinely sought to demean, ridicule, and smear political opponents.

District 1: John Wayne Williams Facing Heavy Legal Controversies

The race for District 1 Commissioner presents an even deeper quagmire. Incumbent John Wayne Williams is defending his seat against challenger Clint Bray amidst compounding scandals. Williams, who has been unable to stay away from legal drama and civil lawsuits, has reportedly been arrested three separate times. His rap sheet includes severe allegations, including public intoxication, a domestic assault and battery incident involving an ex-girlfriend, and a separate driving under the influence (DUI) offense.

Beyond his criminal record, Williams faces explosive allegations of residency fraud. Investigators and local political opponents reveal that Williams does not actually live in the county or district he is running to represent. Critics allege he lied about his primary residence to maintain his eligibility for the District 1 commissioner seat.

Voting Logistics

Early voting continues on Friday, August 21, from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., and Saturday, August 22, from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m.. Registered voters can verify their designated early polling locations or view sample ballots via the official Oklahoma Voter Portal. Final voting will conclude on Tuesday, August 25, when standard precinct polling places open statewide from 7 a.m. to 7 p.m..