Mark Tedford Enters Race for Oklahoma's 1st Congressional District
State Rep. Mark Tedford, Tulsa businessman and community developer, officially announces his candidacy for the U.S. House seat being vacated by Rep. Kevin Hern.
A New Chapter for Oklahoma's 1st District
State Representative Mark Tedford made his candidacy official on Wednesday, announcing he will seek election to the U.S. House in Oklahoma's 1st Congressional District. The announcement comes after incumbent Rep. Kevin Hern confirmed he would vacate the seat to pursue a run for the U.S. Senate.
Tedford, a seasoned Tulsa businessman and elected state legislator, brings a record of civic engagement and economic development to his congressional bid. His entry into the race signals a competitive primary season ahead for one of Oklahoma's most prominent federal districts.
The Seat
Oklahoma's 1st Congressional District, centered in Tulsa — the state's second-largest city.
The Vacancy
Rep. Kevin Hern steps down to pursue a U.S. Senate campaign, opening the district race.
The Candidate
State Rep. Mark Tedford, businessman, community builder, and conservative leader.
Honoring Congressman Hern's Legacy
"First, I want to thank Congressman Kevin Hern and his wonderful family for their service to Oklahoma's First Congressional District. I'm grateful for the leadership Congressman Hern has provided and for the way he has helped elevate Oklahoma's conservative values on the national stage."

— Mark Tedford
Tedford opened his announcement with a sincere tribute to Congressman Hern, crediting him for amplifying Oklahoma's conservative voice in Washington. By acknowledging Hern's accomplishments first, Tedford signaled a campaign built on continuity of conservative principles — and a commitment to carrying that momentum forward into the next Congress.
A Businessman with Deep Roots in Tulsa
Mark Tedford is not just a politician — he is an active participant in Tulsa's economic future. As the owner of Tedford Insurance, he has built a successful business serving Oklahomans across the region. His entrepreneurial instincts extend well beyond the insurance industry.
Alongside co-founder Bryan Wilks, Tedford helped launch the Ten District Initiative — and Tedford Insurance expanded a landmark $10 to $12 million mixed-use development project in one of Jenks Downtowns most historic corridors. The project preserves and rehabilitates an existing structure dating back to 1914, while constructing a new building on the adjacent vacant lot, breathing new economic life into the neighborhood.
Tedford Insurance
A Tulsa-based insurance business serving Oklahomans — a foundation of community trust and entrepreneurial success.
Ten District Initiative
Co-founded with Bryan Wilks, this initiative drives community-centered economic development across Jenks historic districts.
$10–$12M Development Project
Launched in 2022, the project restores a 1914 structure and builds new alongside it — revitalizing the urban fabric of Jenks.
Why Mark Tedford for Congress?
Mark Tedford combines the practical experience of a business owner, the legislative record of a state representative, and the vision of a community builder. Oklahoma's 1st District deserves a congressman who understands both the challenges facing working families and the importance of conservative leadership on the national stage.
Business Experience
Decades of entrepreneurship in Tulsa — from insurance to landmark real estate development — give Tedford an edge in understanding what drives Oklahoma's economy.
Legislative Track Record
As a State Representative, Tedford has championed conservative values at the Oklahoma State Capitol, building relationships and passing meaningful legislation.
Community Investment
Through the Ten District Initiative, Tedford has put real resources behind Tulsa's future — proof that his commitment to Oklahoma goes beyond campaign promises.