ADA, Okla. — Chickasaw Nation Election Secretary Jerri Martin announced candidates seeking to serve the unexpired term of Chickasaw Nation Tishomingo Legislative District Seat 1. The filing period opened Monday, July 6, and closed at 4:30 p.m. Wednesday, July 8.
The vacancy was created when former incumbent legislator Scott Wood was sworn in as Chickasaw Nation Lt. Governor.
Candidates filing to fill the unexpired term include Te’Ata Loper, Milburn; Kayla Wood, Tishomingo; Lisa Hudson, Davis; and Jeff Jennings, Davis.
The unexpired term ends Oct. 1, 2027.
Chickasaw voters registered in the Tishomingo District will vote by mail ballots, with ballots being mailed to qualified voters Aug. 6.
Ballots must be returned to the Chickasaw Nation Election Commission no later than 10:30 a.m. Aug. 25, 2026. No hand-delivered ballots will be accepted.
The Chickasaw Nation Election Commission shall conduct and supervise the ballot counting beginning 11 a.m. Aug. 25, 2026, at the Chickasaw Nation Community Center in Ada.
Results of the election shall be announced the same day. A runoff election will be conducted Sept. 22, if applicable.
The Chickasaw Nation Legislature requested Chickasaw Nation Governor Chris Anoatubby call a special election in conformance with the requirements of the Chickasaw Nation Code to fill the vacant seat representing the Tishomingo Legislative District, Seat 1, of the Chickasaw Nation Legislature.
For further assistance, contact the Chickasaw Nation Election Secretary toll free at 1-888-661-0137.
The Chickasaw Nation Tribal 2026 Primary Special Election Schedule
Tishomingo District
July 23
Ballots mailed to voters who reside outside of the contiguous 48 states.
Aug. 4
Voter registration closes at noon.
Aug. 5
After 12 p.m. candidates may pick up updated printouts or flash drive.
Aug. 6
Ballots mailed to ALL qualified voters.
Aug. 20
Last day to appoint a watcher.
Aug. 25
2026 Primary Special Election (last day to return ballots; no later than 10:30 a.m.)
Ballot tabulation begins at 11 a.m.
Unofficial results posted immediately.
News release made to public.
Aug. 25
Voter registration reopens, if no runoff election.
Aug. 28
Recount period ends.
Aug. 31
Oath of Office for legislator elect.
2026 Runoff Special Election Schedule (if needed)
Aug. 31
Candidates may pick up printouts or flash drive. (after 12 p.m.)
Sept. 3
Ballots mailed to ALL qualified voters.
Sept. 17
Last day to appoint a watcher for the runoff election.
Sept. 22
2026 Runoff Special Election (last day to return ballots; no later than 10:30 a.m.)
Ballot tabulation begins at 11 a.m.
Unofficial results posted immediately.
Press release made to public.
Voter registration reopens
Sept. 25
Recount period ends.
Oct. 1
Oath of Office ceremony (11 a.m.)
