State Representative Monroe Nichols wrote his name in the history books on Tuesday when he defeated Karen Keith to become the first Black mayor of Tulsa. The 41-year-old former University of Tulsa football player on Tuesday night confirmed his victory while addressing supporters who had gathered at the Greenwood Cultural Center for a watch party.
Fox 23 reported that Nichols, a Democratic Party member, expressed his gratitude for the support he received when he started his campaign and said he’s prepared to start work. The mayor-elect also said that he decided to carve his own path during his campaign, adding that he provided a comprehensive plan of what he envisioned for Tulsa.
“Now, there will no doubt be some setbacks, maybe a few missteps, but we will continue to march forward,” Nichols said. “We are not going to be in a marked time. We may not always agree on the pathway to greatness, but we will always be united in our commitment to get there, and I will be an honest leader willing to engage with all citizens, even when we disagree.”
Outgoing Mayor G.T. Bynum in a statement congratulated Nichols. “I want to congratulate my friend Monroe Nichols on being elected Tulsa’s 41st mayor. This is the greatest honor Tulsans have in our power to bestow on one of our neighbors,” Bynum said.
“Mayor Nichols has my full commitment to do all I can to help him launch his administration successfully on December 2nd. I am excited to begin that transition, and we are scheduled to meet on Thursday to kick things off.”
Bynum also lauded the efforts Nichols’ opponent Keith put in when she was contesting the mayoral seat.
“I also want to thank my friend Karen Keith for loving our city enough to put her name forward as a candidate, and for running a campaign that attracted the support of thousands in our city,” he said. “Karen has our city’s gratitude for all she has done and will continue to do for Tulsa.”
Nichols’ victory comes over a century after the Tulsa Race Massacre.
