From CEO to Executive Chairman of Williams Cos. and now to U.S. Senator.
Alan Armstrong was officially appointed U.S. Senator Tuesday to replace outgoing Sen. Markwayne Mullin, who was confirmed Monday to lead the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Gov. Kevin Stitt introduced him Tuesday during a morning press conference and hailed Armstrong, a third-generation Oklahoman, as a “strong business leader who understands the power of free markets and limited government.”
“Alan views this appointment not as a political opportunity but really as public service,” Stitt said, noting that Armstrong will have to step down from the board of Williams Companies and “a bunch of different commitments” to serve his state.
He also said Armstrong is “strongly aligned” with President Trump on energy policy.
“I will admit to you, I’m a little bit — feel like I’m stepping off into the abyss, with not exactly sure what I’m getting into. But I’m confident, got great team around me, and great support around me, and I really do look forward to making a difference for the short time that I’m in the Senate,” Armstrong said to applause.
Hours after the governor’s appointment of Armstrong, Mullin was sworn in by U.S. Attorney General Pam Bondi and took his oath of office with President Trump looking on during the ceremony.
An hour later, Armstrong was in Washington D.C. where he was sworn in as a U.S. Senator by Sen. Chuck Grassley, R-Iowa.
The governor had 30 days to make the appointment, under state law. Mullin was confirmed Monday evening in a 54-45 vote in the Senate and received the support of two Democrats. He replaces Kristi Noem at DHS.
In accepting the appointment, Armstrong will be asked to pledge that he will not run for a full-term and will only be a temporary office holder until the winner of the November 2026 election is decided and sworn into office. He could hold the office for about seven months.
Armstrong’s appointment drew a quick show of support from the state’s senior U.S. Senator, James Lankford.
“Congratulations to my friend Alan Armstrong on his appointment to serve our state in the United States Senate,” said Lankford. “I am grateful he and his family are willing to sacrifice their time to serve. Markwayne leaves large boots to fill, but with Alan’s strong background in energy and an understanding of what powers our economy, he brings real-world experience at a critical time for the American economy. I look forward to working with him to support Oklahoma workers, strengthen our energy independence, and keep costs low for families.”
Oklahoma Senate Democratic leader Julia Kirt, Oklahoma City, also issued a statement of support.
“I’d like to congratulate Mr. Amstrong on this honor and express my appreciation that he has agreed to step into this role as a public servant. His expertise in energy means he has real perspective on cost of living and how challenging it can be for people to afford the essentials. I’m hopeful he’ll have the vision to keep Oklahomans at the center of his work in the U.S. Senate. “
The election to replace Sen. Mullin will include a primary election on June 16 and the official filing period of three days will begin April1. Rep. Kevin Hern already announced his candidacy for the Republican nomination.