Incumbent Republican Governor Kevin Stitt is term-limited and cannot seek re-election to a third term in office.

The Oklahoman listed Ryan Walters, Gentner Drummond, Charles McCall, and Matt Pinnell as the most likely candidates to run in January 2023.

[6] In April 2023, the Tulsa World identified Walters, Drummond, McCall, and Greg Treat as likely candidates.

[7] In August 2023, KOSU noted that Drummond had fundraised over $200,000 during 2023, significantly higher than other statewide elected officials such as Walters who raised $250 in the same timeframe.

[8] The same month, The Black Wall Street Times reported Walters was preparing for a 2026 gubernatorial campaign.