Issue: Oklahoma Lieutenant Governor Election - Separate or Unified Ticket

Oklahoma is currently in the minority of states as it applies to the election of the Lieutenant Governor. A separate ticket from the Governor, the Lt. Governor has been from the opposite political party in the past. Though some prefer that opportunity for balance, others wish for unity and have begun a movement in the state to change the election method to one ticket with the Governor.

Here's a breakdown of the issue, an explanation of both sides and an opportunity for you to give your opinion.

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Background

According to the National Lieutenant Governors Association, 18 states utilized the same method for selecting the Lieutenant Governor as Oklahoma, electing the office-holder separately from Governor. 24 other states elect their Lieutenant Governors in a similar method as the Vice President on a national scale. Instead of a separate ticket, the candidate for Governor chooses a running mate, and the two run together.

Apart from election method, the Lt. Governor position in Oklahoma is modeled in many ways after the Vice Presidential position on the federal level. The state's 2nd highest official, the Lt. Governor is first in line to replace the Governor in instances of death, removal from office or resignation. In addition, the Lt. Governor serves as President of the Senate and casts any necessary tie-breaking votes.

The office has been part of the executive branch in Oklahoma since statehood in 1907, and both the term of office and requirements for election are the same as Governor. The two positions have been from opposite parties on 3 occasions during the state's history, most recently when Democrat Brad Henry succeeded Republican Frank Keating as Governor and Republican Mary Fallin remained in the office of Lt. Governor.