Representative Tammy Townley

R

District 48

Hi, I’m Tammy Townley and I represent the people of Oklahoma’s 48th District.


representative

News & Announcements

Jun 3, 2025
Recent Posts

Bill Brings Transparency to Election Tie Outcomes

OKLAHOMA CITY – House Bill 1678 is now law after passing both chambers of the Oklahoma Legislature and advancing without the governor’s signature. The bill, authored by Rep. Tammy Townley, R-Ardmore, updates procedures for how tie votes are handled in Oklahoma elections.  HB1678, originally intended to mandate a runoff in the event of a tie vote, was amended in the Senate before final passage. The new law still relies on a random drawing to determine the winner in tied races but provides more structure and transparency in how those drawings are conducted. “Even though it's not exactly what we wanted in the end, it will be better for drawing up the rules,” Townley said. “This is still a step in the right direction to make sure these decisions are made clearly, publicly and by a process people can understand.” While it maintains the current practice of settling tied elections by lot, it now requires clearer notification protocols, uniform materials, and a standardized method for conducting the drawing in front of witnesses.  “People should feel confident that even in rare cases like a tie, our system is consistent and fair,” Townley said.  Townley proposed the legislation after a 2024 primary race in Carter County was decided by a drawing. The bill is set to take effect November 1, 2025.

Apr 24, 2025
Recent Posts

Townley Remembers Former Commissioner Hamp Baker

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Tammy Townley, R-Ardmore, today shared the news of the passing of her uncle, former Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner Hamp Baker, who died following a battle with cancer at 91. Commissioner Baker served the state from 1974 to 1985, becoming a well-known figure both for his work and his memorable public safety campaign slogan: “Hamp Baker says Drive with Care.” The slogan—often seen on car hoods and signs across Oklahoma—became one of the most recognized marketing efforts of the 1970s. “He loved being a Corporation Commissioner and he loved Oklahoma,” said Townley. “But to me, he was just my uncle—my mom’s brother, the one who encouraged me to run for office and believed in me before I believed in myself. He even helped me put out signs. He was one of my favorite people on this planet. I am keeping my cousins and family in my prayers during this difficult time.” Even in his 90s, Hamp was still pulling his own oil wells up until about a month ago. After his time on the Commission, Baker continued to advocate for Oklahoma energy, working with the National Association of Energy Users to promote the use of Oklahoma natural gas on a national level. Baker’s passion for public service and deep commitment to his home state left a lasting impact on Oklahoma—and on his family. "My uncle’s slogan was ‘Put your stamp on Hamp,’” Townley said. “He certainly put his on Oklahoma.”

Mar 6, 2025
Recent Posts

House Passes Townley’s Bill to Update Procedures for Tied Elections

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Oklahoma House of Representatives yesterday passed legislation addressing election procedures in the event of a tied vote. House Bill 1678 , authored by Rep. Tammy Townley, R-Ardmore, requires a second election be held when a tie occurs in primary, runoff or general elections. “This bill ensures elections are decided by voters, not by chance,” Townley said. “I was surprised to learn that races could be settled by a random drawing. With the technology we have, there’s no reason a tied election can’t go to a runoff. This bill takes that step to make our elections fair and transparent.” House Bill 1678 amends Title 26, Section 8-105 of Oklahoma Statutes, directing that if a tie vote occurs, a second vote will be scheduled for the next available election date. Additionally, if the tie persists after the second vote, the race would be decided by a public drawing conducted by the election board. The bill, inspired by the 2024 primary election in Carter County where a sheriff’s race was decided by a random drawing after a tie, aims to modernize election procedures to prevent outcomes based on luck. Townley’s office began working on the proposal immediately after learning that a race could be determined by a drawing instead of by the people. "Oklahomans deserve a process that is fair and reflects their votes, not one that relies on chance," Townley added. HB1678 passed the House 56-28 and now moves to the Senate for further consideration. If passed and signed into law, the bill will take effect on Nov. 1, 2025.