NORMAN — One of the youngest representatives elected to the Oklahoma legislature is Josh Cockcroft, who defeated three opponents in the Republican primary in 2010. He came out victorious in the primary runoff election and defeated Democrat Chris Odneal in the general election.

Now, the young incumbent is being challenged by longtime business owner Randy Gilbert.

State House District 27 includes the outskirts of Norman and the towns of Little Axe, Pink, Macomb, Tribbey, Tecumseh, Harjo and Maud. The Cleveland County voting precincts in District 27 include 17, 36, 49, 63, 64, 65, 78 and 87.

Republican Josh Cockcroft: Cockroft is one of two 21-year-old representatives elected to serve in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. He has been active with the Young Republicans and youth to develop leadership skills with TeenPact across the state. A life-long Oklahoman, he is one of a family of eight. He married his life-long sweetheart, Jessica. He describes himself as a devoted follower of Christ.

“As such, my goals and my values are much more than campaign rhetoric. They are the result of core values, discipline and role models with integrity, heartfelt commitment and the courage to stand for truth and justice — for all,” he said. “It is an honor to be a candidate for District 27 and it has been my privilege to serve you in the Oklahoma legislature these past two years.”

Cockcroft said he understands the importance of traditional family values and the value of each human life — from conception to the grave. He identifies with and will address the needs in Oklahoma as a legislator. He believes families are the state’s greatest resource and that we must do all that we can to preserve and protect this foundational and cherished element of our state.

“I’m not afraid of hard work — which is a good thing because there is plenty to do,” he said. “As we begin this campaign together, my goal remains the same: To ensure accountable and accessible service to the great people of District 27. I believe that, together, we can make a difference and be a fresh voice in Oklahoma. I am ready and willing to continue serving as your representative in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. I covet your prayers and support as we preserve and enrich our community together.”

Democrat Randy Gilbert: Gilbert graduated from Tecumseh High School in 1978 and received his bachelor’s degree in agriculture education from Oklahoma State University.

He started his career teaching agriculture education at Lawton High School for five years, then moving back to Pottawatomie County in 1988 to work in the family business, Gilbert and Sons Trucking, where he continues to be the operations manager and vice president. He is also co-owner of Gilbert Insurance Agency and maintains an Oklahoma Insurance license.

Gilbert runs a cow-calf operation with registered Limousin cattle and a commercial herd of Limousin crossbreeds. He promotes agriculture through his numerous volunteer efforts not only in this community but statewide.

Gov. Brad Henry appointed Gilbert 10 years ago to serve on the State Board of Career and Technology Education.

He is a longtime board member of more than 20 years for the State FFA Foundation, serving as the chairman for the past 14 years of the Pottawatomie Free Fair Board, Shawnee Chamber of Commerce past chairman and chairman of the Pottawatomie County Junior Livestock Show for 24 years, Arvest Bank Board member for 14 years, Civic & Cultural Development Authority Board of Trustees member for six years that oversees the Heart of Oklahoma Exposition Center in Shawnee, Tecumseh Growth and Development board member and past chairman for 20 years, past vice president of the Oklahoma Limousin Breeders Association and chairman of the Southwest American Livestock Foundation, executive board member of the Oklahoma Youth Expo and numerous other boards across the county and state.

He is a lifetime member of the Oklahoma Limousin Breeders Association, lifetime member of the FFA Alumni Association and lifetime member of the Oklahoma State University Alumni. He is a member of the Oklahoma Cattlemen’s Association and the Pottawatomie County Cattlemen’s Association and the Sirloin Club of Oklahoma.

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