Oklahoma Candidates Split on Minimum Wage Increase
The outcome of the race could decide whether the state’s $7.25 hourly minimum wage sees any future growth.
Updated on Oct. 26, 2026 in Employment
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Oklahoma gubernatorial candidates Cyndi Munson and Mike Mazzei remain split on the future of the state's minimum wage, which has remained at $7.25 per hour since 2009. This debate continues following the recent rejection of State Question 832 by voters.
Why it matters
The $7.25 hourly rate provides an annual gross income of approximately $15,000 for full-time workers, significantly lower than the $14.45 hourly wage estimated as necessary for basic necessities. With Oklahoma one of 20 states keeping this rate, the candidates' conflicting views present two very different potential paths for low-income household earnings.
Oklahoma's $7.25 hourly minimum wage has remained stagnant since 2009, leaving the state among 20 nationwide to maintain the federal floor. This rate results in $15,000 of annual gross pay for full-time workers, while estimates suggest $14.45 per hour is needed to afford basic necessities.
The players
Cyndi Munson
Gubernatorial candidate and state legislator who supports raising the minimum wage to $15 per hour.
Mike Mazzei
Gubernatorial candidate who opposes increasing the state minimum wage to protect small businesses.
The details
The candidates offer opposing economic strategies for the state's workforce. Mike Mazzei argues that raising the minimum wage could hurt small businesses and reduce job opportunities for minorities. Conversely, Cyndi Munson proposes increasing the minimum wage to $15 per hour, arguing that higher pay helps families cover essential costs like rent, utilities, and groceries.
Timeline
The state minimum wage was last changed in 2009.
Cyndi Munson introduced a House bill for a $15 minimum wage in 2025.
Oklahoma voters rejected State Question 832 in 2026.
State Question 832 proposed a $15 minimum wage deadline of 2029.
Money Landscape
The debate follows the recent rejection of State Question 832, which sought to tie future minimum wage increases to the cost of living. This marks a continuation of the state's long-standing reliance on the $7.25 federal floor, which has not moved in 17 years.
Low-wage earners in Oklahoma should note that the hourly rate remains at $7.25, unchanged by the recent election results. Households reliant on minimum-wage income should review their monthly budgets for rent and groceries, as any legislative changes would require new action following the rejection of previous ballot proposals.
The takeaway
The candidates represent fundamentally different approaches to low-wage labor and business overhead in the state. Readers should continue to monitor upcoming state legislative sessions for any new proposals regarding wage floors or cost-of-living adjustments.
Further reading
For more on the state's labor market, visit the Oklahoma Employment section.
Live Poll
Should your state government increase the minimum wage to help workers keep up with living costs?
