Jackson Lahmeyer, founder of Pastors for Trump and a Republican candidate for Oklahoma’s 1st Congressional District, announced his withdrawal from the race on June 17, 2026, following a text-messaging scandal that emerged just prior to the runoff election. Lahmeyer cited a desire to avoid distraction for his family, church, and constituents as reasons for his decision.
What Happened
In Tulsa County, Oklahoma, Jackson Lahmeyer suspended his campaign one day after securing a spot in the Republican primary runoff for the U.S. House of Representatives. The decision came after media outlets published alleged text messages between Lahmeyer and a former Miss Oklahoma, exposing personal exchanges including him calling her “very cute” and sending a selfie from a party at President Trump’s Mar-a-Lago club in Florida. These messages were reported by The Daily Mail and viewed by CBS Tulsa affiliate KOTV, though CBS News has not independently verified them.
Key Facts
- Jackson Lahmeyer is a pastor and founder of the group Pastors for Trump.
- He received an endorsement from former President Donald Trump in May 2026.
- The texting scandal was revealed shortly before the June 16 Republican primary runoff.
- Lahmeyer admitted to “crossing a boundary through text messaging” but denied the full scandal portrayal.
- Following Lahmeyer’s withdrawal, Mark Tedford, the top vote-getter in the primary, will advance to the general election.
- The seat is open as incumbent Rep. Kevin Hern is running for the U.S. Senate.
Why It Matters
Lahmeyer’s withdrawal reshapes the Republican contest in Oklahoma’s 1st Congressional District, impacting the race’s dynamics as the general election approaches. The scandal and subsequent drop from the race illustrate the influence of personal conduct on political campaigns and voter perceptions.
Background
Jackson Lahmeyer gained national attention as founder of Pastors for Trump and had secured Trump’s endorsement prior to the primary. The seat became open after Republican Kevin Hern decided to pursue a Senate campaign, prompting a competitive GOP primary.
Analysis
Former President Trump praised Lahmeyer for his “hard work under difficult circumstances” but shifted his endorsement to Mark Tedford following Lahmeyer’s scandal and campaign suspension, citing Tedford’s alignment as “Pro Trump and MAGA all the way.”
Who Is Affected
- Jackson Lahmeyer, whose campaign ended abruptly.
- Mark Tedford, now the leading Republican candidate advancing to November’s general election.
- Voters of Oklahoma’s 1st Congressional District, facing a changed GOP ballot.
- The broader Oklahoma Republican party involved in the congressional race.
What Remains Unclear
- The full details and authenticity of the text messages, as CBS News has not independently verified them.
- The specific motivations behind Lahmeyer’s communications outside of his statements.
- Whether any additional legal or ethical actions will follow regarding the texting incident.
What Comes Next
Mark Tedford will proceed to the general election to contend for Oklahoma’s 1st Congressional District seat in November 2026. No additional campaign developments involving Lahmeyer have been announced.
Sources
This article is based on reporting and publicly available information from the following source:
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