Former President Donald Trump endorses Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt again
Gov. Kevin Stitt has clinched a coveted endorsement from former President Donald Trump.
The former Republican president endorsed Stitt four years ago, and on Monday, said the governor has done a "fantastic job" since taking office.
Related: Kevin Stitt launches first TV ads for reelection bid in race for Oklahoma governor
Stitt is running for a second term, and already faces opposition this reelection cycle.
"Kevin was a very successful businessman in 2018 when I first endorsed him," Trump said in a statement. "Now, he is a fighter for the incredible people of Oklahoma. Kevin Stitt has my Complete and Total Endorsement!"
Trump called Stitt a "fearless defender" of the Second Amendment and a staunch supporter of the military and veterans. He praised Stitt for championing occupational licensing reform and supporting U.S. energy independence.
"It is an honor to be endorsed by a freedom-loving President," Stitt said.
More: Transgender Oklahomans sue Gov. Kevin Stitt over order blocking birth certificate changes
Trump endorsed Stitt in 2018; Stitt cited Trump as inspiration to run for office
In 2018, Trump endorsed Stitt shortly after the Republican runoff primary in which the Tulsa businessman defeated former Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett.
Stitt has previously said Trump partially inspired him to run for political office. Similar to Trump, Stitt never held elected office before running for governor.
Other candidates for governor are state schools Superintendent Joy Hofmeister, former state Sen. Connie Johnson, Republican Mark Sherwood, former state Sen. Ervin Yen and Libertarian Natalie Bruno.
This article originally appeared on Oklahoman: Donald Trump endorses Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt for a 2nd term
