About Randy
Trusted Public Servant.
Proven Conservative Leader.
Randy Cornelius is a lifelong Oklahoman with more than 35 years of public service and leadership experience. Born and raised in Oklahoma, Randy began his career as an Oklahoma City firefighter in 1988. Through dedication and hard work, he rose to the rank of Battalion Chief, earning numerous awards and commendations for his service.
Randy holds an A.A.S. degree from OSU-OKC and brings a diverse background in home construction and small business ownership. Today, he is a proud landowner and homeowner in Wanette, deeply rooted in the values and traditions of rural Oklahoma.
As a conservative Republican, Randy is a strong constitutionalist and steadfast supporter of the Second Amendment.
Randy has been married to his wife, Johna, since 1990. They have a daughter, Alayna Smith, and honor the memory of their son, Chase Cornelius. A lifelong outdoorsman, Randy enjoys hunting and fishing and is passionate about preserving Oklahoma’s outdoor traditions for future generations.
Lower Costs
Families are feeling the strain of rising costs.
I will champion policies that deliver property tax relief, rein in skyrocketing home insurance premiums through smarter oversight and disaster mitigation, and expand workforce training so more Oklahomans can earn degrees or certifications without overwhelming debt. I will also work to keep healthcare affordable by protecting access to rural hospitals and ensuring families across our region can access emergency care.
Strengthen Education
A strong economy starts with strong schools. Oklahoma’s education system should prepare students for success after high school. That means supporting competitive pay for great teachers, maintaining high standards for student achievement, and ensuring graduates are prepared for college or a career.
As a firefighter, I’ve spent my career serving our community and protecting our neighbors when they need help most.
In the legislature, I’ll bring that same commitment to serving Oklahomans with a conservative focus on lowering costs, strengthening public safety, and supporting the communities I’ve spent my career protecting.
Randy's Priorities
Grow Jobs in SD 17
Oklahomans deserve an economy that creates opportunity close to home. I will work to attract high-wage jobs to our community by voting to keep taxes low, cutting red tape for small businesses, and strengthening career and technical education so students are prepared for high-wage careers. I will also support investments in infrastructure and workforce development to help local businesses grow and compete.
Keep Communities Safe
Public safety is personal to me. I will prioritize ensuring firefighters, law enforcement, and EMS have the funding and equipment they need, advance policies that crack down on dangerous drugs, and support correctional officers with better pay and safer working conditions.
Stand up for Ag and Energy
Agriculture and energy are the backbone of Oklahoma’s economy. I will support farmers, ranchers, and the horse and cattle industries, protect private property rights, and advance an all-of-the-above energy strategy that keeps energy affordable and Oklahoma competitive.
Protect Our Freedoms
I will stand strong for Oklahoma values by defending our Second Amendment rights and protecting the freedoms of law-abiding citizens. I will also work to preserve our outdoor heritage by supporting hunting, fishing, and responsible conservation for future generations.