Matt Pinnell

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Matt Pinnell
Pinnell in 2019
Matt Pinnell
BornPhilip Matthew Pinnell
15 8, 1979
BirthplaceDallas, Texas, U.S.
NationalityAmerican
OccupationPolitician
Known for17th Lieutenant Governor of Oklahoma; 1st Oklahoma Secretary of Tourism and Branding
EducationOral Roberts University (BA)
Spouse(s)Lisa Pinnell
Children4
Website[Official website Official site]

Philip Matthew Pinnell (born August 15, 1979) is an American politician serving as the 17th Lieutenant Governor of Oklahoma since January 2019. A member of the Republican Party, Pinnell also served as the first Oklahoma Secretary of Tourism and Branding from January 2019 until March 2024, a cabinet-level position created by Governor Kevin Stitt.[1] Before entering statewide elected office, Pinnell served as chairman of the Oklahoma Republican Party from 2010 to 2013, a period during which the party expanded its influence across the state.[2] Born in Dallas, Texas, and educated at Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Pinnell built his career in Oklahoma through Republican Party organizing, business ventures, and civic engagement before winning the lieutenant governor's race in 2018.[3] In his role as lieutenant governor, he has focused on tourism promotion, economic development, and international business recruitment, and has served as acting governor during Governor Stitt's absences from the state.[4]

Early Life

Philip Matthew Pinnell was born on August 15, 1979, in Dallas, Texas.[5] He later relocated to Oklahoma, where he would build both his personal and professional life. Details about his upbringing in Texas and the circumstances of his move to Oklahoma are not extensively documented in public sources, though by the time he enrolled in college he had established himself in the Tulsa area.

Pinnell developed an interest in Republican politics and civic affairs at a relatively young age. His early involvement in party organizing and community activities in the Tulsa metropolitan area laid the groundwork for what would become a career in Oklahoma Republican politics. A profile in Tulsa People magazine highlighted his civic engagement as a young professional in the Tulsa community.[6]

A 2018 profile in the Claremore Progress described Pinnell as a "Mr. Fix It" figure in Oklahoma Republican circles, someone who had spent years building relationships and organizational capacity within the party before seeking elected office himself.[7]

Education

Pinnell attended Oral Roberts University in Tulsa, Oklahoma, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree.[5] Oral Roberts University, a private Christian university founded in 1963, is located in the city that would become Pinnell's home base for his political and professional career. His time at the university connected him to the broader Tulsa community and to networks that would prove instrumental in his later political activities.

Career

Oklahoma Republican Party Leadership

Pinnell's political career began in earnest through his work with the Oklahoma Republican Party. He became involved in party organizing and was recognized as a rising figure within the state's Republican establishment. The Oklahoman profiled Pinnell as a "young Republican" who was presiding over a period of significant growth for the Oklahoma Republican Party.[8]

On June 26, 2010, Pinnell was elected chairman of the Oklahoma Republican Party, succeeding Gary Jones in the role.[2] At the time of his election, he was one of the younger state party chairs in the country. During his tenure as chairman, which lasted until April 20, 2013, Pinnell oversaw a period in which the Republican Party consolidated and expanded its dominance in Oklahoma politics.[8]

As state party chairman, Pinnell was involved in organizational strategy, fundraising, candidate recruitment, and messaging. He was noted for his efforts to modernize the party's outreach and build its infrastructure across Oklahoma's 77 counties. His successor as chairman was Dave Weston.[2]

Pinnell's work as party chairman also drew attention at the national level. Following the 2016 presidential election, The Oklahoman reported that Pinnell's name was among those mentioned in speculation about potential appointments in the Trump administration, a reflection of his standing within Republican circles.[9]

During his time in party leadership, Pinnell was also noted for his commentary on national political dynamics. A Capitol Beat OK report documented Pinnell's critiques of the Obama administration's Organizing for America efforts in Oklahoma.[10]

2018 Lieutenant Governor Campaign

In 2018, Pinnell entered the race for lieutenant governor of Oklahoma. The Republican primary was a competitive contest, and Pinnell advanced to a runoff election. The Oklahoman reported that Pinnell and his opponent were headed to a runoff in the lieutenant governor's race after neither candidate secured a majority in the initial primary.[11]

Pinnell won the Republican nomination for lieutenant governor, securing the party's backing for the general election.[12] In the general election in November 2018, Pinnell defeated his Democratic opponent to become the 17th lieutenant governor of Oklahoma.[3] His victory was part of a broader Republican sweep in the 2018 Oklahoma elections, which also saw Kevin Stitt elected as the state's 28th governor.[13]

During his campaign, Pinnell drew on his experience as state party chairman and his background in business and civic affairs. The Claremore Progress profile described his candidacy as a natural extension of years spent working behind the scenes in Oklahoma Republican politics.[7]

Lieutenant Governor of Oklahoma

Pinnell was inaugurated as the 17th lieutenant governor of Oklahoma on January 14, 2019, succeeding Todd Lamb in the position.[13] The inauguration took place alongside that of Governor Kevin Stitt.

Shortly after taking office, Pinnell was appointed by Governor Stitt as the first Oklahoma Secretary of Tourism and Branding, a newly created cabinet-level position established through executive order.[1][14] The appointment, made on January 18, 2019, gave Pinnell a dual role in state government, combining the constitutional duties of the lieutenant governor with a focused portfolio on tourism promotion and state branding.[15]

In this dual capacity, Pinnell has worked to promote Oklahoma as a tourism destination and to develop the state's brand identity. The Oklahoman reported in 2022 that Pinnell was ending his first term having identified "a lot more strengths" in the state, reflecting his focus on promoting Oklahoma's assets.[16] He served as Secretary of Tourism and Branding until March 1, 2024.

Acting Governor Duties

As lieutenant governor, Pinnell serves as acting governor of Oklahoma when Governor Stitt is out of state, as prescribed by the Oklahoma Constitution. In February 2026, Pinnell served in this capacity while Stitt was traveling with the National Governors' Association.[4] The frequency of these acting governor periods prompted legislative discussion, with a bill introduced in 2026 to clarify the notification process for when the governor leaves the state.[4]

Tourism and Route 66 Centennial

A significant focus of Pinnell's tenure has been the promotion of U.S. Route 66, which passes through Oklahoma. As the centennial of Route 66 approached in 2026, Pinnell became a leading voice in planning celebrations and promoting the road's historical significance to Oklahoma. He serves as chairman of the Oklahoma Route 66 Centennial Commission.[17]

In interviews with multiple Oklahoma media outlets in late 2025 and early 2026, Pinnell discussed the planning for the Route 66 centennial, describing the road as "a road for everybody" and emphasizing its importance to Oklahoma's identity and tourism economy.[18] FOX23 in Tulsa also featured Pinnell in an in-depth discussion of the centennial celebrations and their expected economic impact on the state.[19]

Economic Development and International Trade

Pinnell has pursued international economic development as part of his role. In August 2025, he traveled to Taiwan to attend the Taiwan-U.S. Expo, representing Oklahoma in efforts to recruit international business investment to the state.[20] The trip was part of broader efforts by the Stitt administration to attract foreign direct investment and strengthen trade relationships between Oklahoma and Asian economies.

Emergency Response

In his capacity as lieutenant governor, Pinnell has been involved in emergency communications during natural disasters. In February 2026, during dangerous wildfire conditions in southwestern Oklahoma, Pinnell publicly reported that structures were burning in Beaver County as the National Weather Service issued fire warnings.[21]

2023 Heat Emergency

During a severe heat event in Oklahoma in June 2023, the state's emergency response drew scrutiny. The New York Times reported on the extreme heat conditions in Oklahoma and the state government's handling of the situation, including questions about the timing of emergency declarations by Governor Stitt.[22] The Black Wall Street Times also reported on the governor's response during this period.[23]

Future Political Prospects

As of early 2026, the race to succeed Pinnell as lieutenant governor has begun to take shape. Oklahoma Voice reported that a former Republican Speaker of the Oklahoma House had entered the race for lieutenant governor, signaling the competitive nature of the contest to replace Pinnell.[24]

Personal Life

Pinnell resides in Oklahoma with his wife, Lisa Pinnell. The couple has four children.[5] The family is based in the Tulsa metropolitan area, where Pinnell has been active in community affairs and civic organizations for many years.[6]

Pinnell's involvement in the Tulsa community predates his political career, with his profile in Tulsa People magazine highlighting his civic engagement as a young professional in the area.[6]

Recognition

Pinnell's tenure as lieutenant governor has been defined in significant part by his work in tourism promotion and state branding. His appointment as the first Secretary of Tourism and Branding represented a new approach to marketing Oklahoma, combining the visibility of the lieutenant governor's office with a dedicated focus on tourism and economic development.[15]

His leadership on the Route 66 centennial has brought him attention both within Oklahoma and nationally, as the iconic highway's 100th anniversary in 2026 has drawn interest from tourism organizations and media outlets across the country.[17][18]

The Oklahoman noted that Pinnell's first term was characterized by an effort to reshape perceptions of Oklahoma, with the lieutenant governor identifying the state's strengths and working to promote them through his dual role.[16]

His work on international trade, including the 2025 Taiwan trip, has also been recognized as part of a broader effort to diversify Oklahoma's economic relationships and attract foreign investment.[20]

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 "Stitt names Matt Pinnell as secretary of tourism".Tulsa Beacon.https://tulsabeacon.com/stitt-names-matt-pinnell-as-secretary-of-tourism/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  2. ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 "Oklahoma Republicans elect new leaders".The Oklahoman.https://oklahoman.com/article/3791582/oklahoma-republicans-elect-new-leaders.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  3. ↑ 3.0 3.1 "Republican Matt Pinnell to be Oklahoma's lieutenant governor".KTUL.http://ktul.com/news/local/republican-matt-pinnell-to-be-oklahomas-lieutenant-governor.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  4. ↑ 4.0 4.1 4.2 "Bill would clarify notification process for when the Governor is going to be out of state".KOKH.2026-02-21.https://okcfox.com/news/local/bill-would-clarify-notification-process-for-when-the-governor-is-going-to-be-out-of-state-governor-stitt-house-speaker-kyle-hilbert.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  5. ↑ 5.0 5.1 5.2 "Matt Pinnell".Vote Smart.https://justfacts.votesmart.org/candidate/180031.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  6. ↑ 6.0 6.1 6.2 "Young With Heart".Tulsa People.https://www.tulsapeople.com/young-with-heart/article_2449db6e-2b6d-5c36-8541-65675413e942.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  7. ↑ 7.0 7.1 "Mr. Fix It vying for Lt. Governor seat".Claremore Progress.https://www.claremoreprogress.com/news/mr-fix-it-vying-for-lt-governor-seat/article_216f4106-23e3-11e8-8f1e-478e0b994aca.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  8. ↑ 8.0 8.1 "Young Republican Matt Pinnell presides over Oklahoma party's growth".The Oklahoman.https://oklahoman.com/article/3704514/young-republican-matt-pinnell-presides-over-oklahoma-partys-growth.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  9. ↑ "Trump job speculation now includes former Oklahoma Republican Party chairman".The Oklahoman.https://oklahoman.com/article/5526990/trump-job-speculation-now-includes-former-oklahoma-republican-party-chairman.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  10. ↑ "Minds at Work: Pinnell jabs Organizing for America".Capitol Beat OK.https://web.archive.org/web/20180328102708/https://capitolbeatok.worldsecuresystems.com/reports/minds-at-work-pinnell-jabs-organizing-for-america-odom-looks-at-november.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  11. ↑ "Murphy, Pinnell headed to runoff in lieutenant governor's race".The Oklahoman.https://oklahoman.com/article/5599504/murphy-pinnell-headed-to-runoff-in-lieutenant-governors-race.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  12. ↑ "Pinnell wins GOP nomination for lieutenant governor".The Oklahoman.https://oklahoman.com/article/5606376/pinnell-wins-gop-nomination-for-lieutenant-governor.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  13. ↑ 13.0 13.1 "Kevin Stitt sworn in as Oklahoma's 28th governor Monday".Tulsa World.https://tulsaworld.com/news/local/kevin-stitt-sworn-in-as-oklahomas-28th-governor-monday/article_4bdaf606-976d-56bc-acde-260c19113221.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  14. ↑ "Governor Kevin Stitt releases his first executive orders".KOKH.http://okcfox.com/news/local/governor-kevin-stitt-releases-his-first-executive-orders.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  15. ↑ 15.0 15.1 "Stitt taps Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell as secretary for tourism".Tulsa World.https://www.tulsaworld.com/news/local/government-and-politics/stitt-taps-lt-gov-matt-pinnell-as-secretary-for-tourism/article_73f15f90-b13d-5258-a5de-730d13908b2f.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  16. ↑ 16.0 16.1 "Pinnell, Lt. Gov., ends first term seeing state 'a lot more strengths'".The Oklahoman.2022-04-11.https://www.oklahoman.com/story/news/2022/04/11/pinnell-lt-gov-ends-first-term-seeing-state-a-lot-more-strengths/7119208001/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  17. ↑ 17.0 17.1 LaydenLoganLogan"Oklahoma Lt. Governor Matt Pinnell previews Route 66 centennial celebrations".KOSU.2025-11-20.https://www.kosu.org/show/stateimpact-oklahoma/2025-11-20/oklahoma-lt-governor-matt-pinnell-previews-route-66-centennial-celebrations.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  18. ↑ 18.0 18.1 "Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell on Route 66's 100-year history: 'A road for everybody'".The Oklahoman.2026-02-18.https://www.oklahoman.com/videos/news/history/2026/02/18/route-66-oklahoma-100-year-anniversary/88723378007/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  19. ↑ "In Depth: Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell discusses Route 66 centennial".FOX23.https://www.fox23.com/news/in-depth-lt-gov-matt-pinnell-discusses-route-66-centennial/video_b555f07d-ba83-541b-82ac-d0f037cb1954.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  20. ↑ 20.0 20.1 "Lt. Governor Pinnell Attends Taiwan-U.S. Expo to Recruit Business to Oklahoma".Office of the Lieutenant Governor of Oklahoma.2025-08-19.https://oklahoma.gov/ltgovpinnell/newsroom/2025/lt--governor-pinnell-attends-taiwan-u-s--expo-to-recruit-busines.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  21. ↑ "Fire warning issued for Beaver County as Lt. Gov. Matt Pinnell says structures are burning".KOCO.https://www.koco.com/article/oklahoma-wildfires-beaver-county-balko-fire/70420188.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  22. ↑ "Oklahoma heat and power".The New York Times.2023-06-21.https://www.nytimes.com/2023/06/21/us/oklahoma-heat-power.html.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  23. ↑ "Gov. Stitt delays declaring state of emergency: Process or politics?".The Black Wall Street Times.2023-06-20.http://theblackwallsttimes.com/2023/06/20/gov-stitt-delays-declaring-state-of-emergency-process-or-politics/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.
  24. ↑ "Former House Speaker jumps into lieutenant governor's race".Oklahoma Voice.https://oklahomavoice.com/briefs/former-house-speaker-jumps-into-lieutenant-governors-race/.Retrieved 2026-02-24.

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