Mazzei, who received President Donald J. Trump's endorsement in May 2026, brings experience in business, public finance, and state government to the gubernatorial race.
Raised in a military family, Mazzei is the son of a United States Air Force officer who served for 20 years. His upbringing included living in different locations around the world, providing him with firsthand experience of military family life.
Mazzei served 12 years in the Oklahoma State Senate, from 2004 to 2016, including service as Chairman of the Senate Finance Committee. He later served as Governor Kevin Stitt's first Secretary of Budget, where he helped establish Oklahoma's state savings reserves at more than $1 billion for the first time.
A businessman and financial professional, Mazzei founded a successful wealth management firm and has emphasized fiscal responsibility, tax policy, economic development, and government accountability throughout his public career.
President Trump endorsed Mazzei for governor on May 29, 2026, citing his business experience, legislative record, and service as Oklahoma's Secretary of Budget.
Rarchar S. Tortorello, President of the Veterans for America First Oklahoma State Chapter, issued the following statement:
"A lot of folks figure the governor's race is already decided because it's Oklahoma. It isn't decided until you vote. Mike Mazzei grew up in a military family, served 12 years in the state Senate, and as Governor Stitt's first Secretary of Budget helped build the state's savings account to $1 billion for the first time. President Trump endorsed him. We're the voice for Oklahoma's America First veterans, and our board voted overwhelmingly to do the same. Vote Tuesday, November 3, and bring a veteran with you."
