Representative Ty Burns

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District 35

Hi, I'm Ty Burns and I represent the people of Oklahoma's 35th District.


representative

News & Announcements

May 28, 2025
Recent Posts

Burns Honors Late Former Rep. Larry Ferguson

OKLAHOMA CITY – Rep. Ty Burns, R-Pawnee, released the following statement honoring the life and service of former state Rep. Larry Ferguson, who represented House District 35 for 20 years and served as House minority floor leader. Ferguson was succeeded in the seat by former Reps. Dennis Casey and Rex Duncan before Burns was elected to serve the district. “Larry Ferguson spent two decades representing House District 35 and his leadership left a lasting mark on the Oklahoma House of Representatives,” Burns said. “He was a steady voice in uncertain times, a principled leader who stood firm in his values and a tireless advocate for the people he served.” Burns continued, “Larry led during a period of major change and he helped shape the path for future conservatives in a chamber that looked very different than it does today. He understood the importance of listening to people, building consensus when it mattered and never losing sight of who he worked for — the families back home.” Burns participated in a remembrance ceremony Tuesday at the Oklahoma State Capitol, where he presented the USA flag flown in Ferguson’s honor. “It’s a privilege to represent the same district Larry cared so deeply about,” Burns said. “He helped lay the foundation for the kind of strong, values-driven leadership rural Oklahoma still depends on. My thoughts and prayers are with the entire Ferguson family. His legacy reflects a life of purpose, dedicated service and a deep love of Oklahoma.”

May 8, 2025
Recent Posts

Olympian Coleman Scott Honored on House Floor

OKLAHOMA CITY – Coleman Scott, an Olympic bronze medalist and former NCAA champion wrestler, was honored on the House floor by Reps. Ty Burns, R-Pawnee, and Steve Bashore, R-Miami, for his accomplishments on the mat and his ongoing commitment to growing the sport of wrestling in Oklahoma.  Scott, a standout at Oklahoma State University and 2012 Olympic medalist, was recognized for a career that includes being a four-time NCAA All-American, a 2008 NCAA champion and a bronze medalist in freestyle wrestling at the London Games. “Coleman Scott represents the best of Oklahoma – dedication, integrity and hard work,” the two representatives said in a joint statement. “He’s earned recognition on the world stage and continues to invest in young athletes here at home. The Farm, his new training facility in Stillwater, is just one example of how he’s helping prepare the next generation for success.” “His impact goes far beyond his athletic achievements. He shows how sports can shape not just champions but leaders in their communities. His commitment to mentoring and coaching youth speaks volumes about the legacy he’s building – one of excellence both on and off the mat.” Scott became a standout wrestler in High school, winning several titles and compiling a record of 156 wins and 12 losses before going to OSU. After his collegiate career, Scott transitioned to freestyle wrestling and earned a spot on the 2012 U.S. Olympic team, taking home bronze in the 60 kg weight class.  Today, Scott remains deeply involved in the sport through coaching, camps and his work at The Farm. He and his wife, Jessica, are raising their three children – Leighton, Stetson and Cash – while continuing to serve the wrestling community.

May 6, 2025
Recent Posts

Richard D. Lawrence Awarded Oklahoma Cross of Valor

OKLAHOMA CITY – Richard D. Lawrence, of Wakita, was awarded the Oklahoma Cross of Valor on Monday in a ceremony at the Oklahoma State Capitol. Issuing a citation in his honor were Reps. Ty Burns, R-Pawnee, and Collin Duel, R-Guthrie, chair and vice chair of the Legislative Veterans Caucus, and David Smith, R-Arpelar, a member of the caucus and chair of the House Veteran and Military Affairs Committee. "Mr. Lawrence is an American hero and just the best kind of person," the three lawmakers said in a joint statement. "Not only did he serve his country honorably, but he displayed the utmost courage and resilience as a prisoner of war. Then he came home and served his community and his family. We are ever grateful for his sacrifice on behalf of keeping our nation free and our citizens safe. He's deserving of this distinction and our gratitude." Lawrence was a prisoner of war from June 27, 1944, through May 2, 1945, while serving with the 2518th Army Air Force Base Unit in the European Theater, Hungary. As a flight maintenance gunner and B-17 bomber ball turret gunner, Lawrence was a vital member of the crew aboard a B-17 Flying Fortress. During a mission over Hungary, the aircraft was struck by a direct hit, forcing all crew members to bail out. While Lawrence and his fellow airmen parachuted to safety, after landing, he unfortunately was captured by enemy forces. Throughout his captivity, Lawrence endured harsh and inhumane conditions, including a grueling march of more than 500 miles without provisions. Even in the face of such extreme adversity, Lawrence was noted for consistently providing leadership and support to his fellow POWs, never losing hope for their eventual liberation. The citation notes his strength, resilience and refusal to surrender to the enemy as exemplifying the highest ideals of duty and patriotism. "Through his unwavering determination and exemplary conduct as a prisoner of war, Richard D. Lawrence has earned the deepest respect and admiration, embodying the finest traditions of the United States Armed Forces and the state of Oklahoma," the citation reads. After returning from military service, Lawrence resumed work on his family farm in Wakita, dedicating his life to wheat and cattle farming. he continues to manage the farm, clearing fields from the seat of his Polaris. He's been deeply involved in his community, serving on the boards of the Farmers' Cooperative of Wakita, the Wakita School Board and as a longtime director of Citizens Bank of Wakita. His dedication to agriculture was honored with the title of Oklahoma Farmer of the Year at the Oklahoma State Fair. He also served over 60 years as an elder at both Fairview Christian Church and Wakita Christian Church. He played golf into his early 90s with the same group of friends. Also present at the ceremony was Gov. Kevin Stitt, Oklahoma Secretary of Military and Veterans Affairs John Nash, and Sens. Roland Pederson, R-Burlington, and Brenda Stanley, R-Midwest City.