Curtis McDaniel
Curtis McDaniel | |
|---|---|
| Born | January 17, 1952 Hugo, Oklahoma, U.S. |
| Occupation(s) | Politician, educator, auctioneer, real estate professional |
| Known for | Member of the Oklahoma House of Representatives from District 1 |
Curtis McDaniel (born January 17, 1952) is an American political figure from Oklahoma. He represented District 1 in the Oklahoma House of Representatives, which includes McCurtain County and the southern portion of LeFlore County.
In April 2014, McDaniel entered the race for an Oklahoma Senate seat left open by Jerry Ellis, but he was ultimately defeated by Republican candidate Joseph Silk.
Early life and career
A native of Hugo, Oklahoma, McDaniel obtained a bachelor's degree in agricultural education from Oklahoma State University in 1975 and later earned a master's degree in public administration from Southeastern Oklahoma State University in 1998.
Prior to his time in the legislature, he dedicated many years to Oklahoma's public school system, serving as a vocational agriculture teacher and principal in various districts. His professional background also includes experience as an auctioneer at OKC West Stockyards and involvement with McDaniel Real Estate and Auction Company.
Political career
McDaniel was elected through a special election in 2012 to complete a vacant term. His legislative priorities centered on promoting agriculture, education, and tourism within Oklahoma. In 2013, he sponsored a bill to rename a highway within his district and introduced legislation aimed at prohibiting texting while driving, which attracted attention from statewide media outlets.
Leadership and committee assignments
During his tenure, McDaniel held the position of Minority Caucus Secretary and served on several committees: Agriculture and Wildlife; A & B General Government; Common Education; and Tourism & International Relations.
District
District 1 is predominantly rural, encompassing McCurtain County, Oklahoma with communities such as Broken Bow, Eagletown, Garvin, Haworth, Idabel, Millerton, Smithville, Valliant, and Wright City. It also covers the southern region of LeFlore County, Oklahoma, including towns like Whitesboro, Muse, Page, and Stapp-Zoe.
Memberships and affiliations
Elder at Panther Creek Christian Church Founder of the Oklahoma Club Calf Association Chairman of the Kiamichi Career Tech Foundation Board Board member of Kiamichi Bible Institute Co-owner of McDaniel Livestock Exchange (MLX)