When Daniel Pae was elected to the Oklahoma House of Representatives four years ago, he became the youngest serving member of the state Legislature at 23 years old.
Still, his maturity and wisdom outshined his youth which is why he has received so many awards and introduced significant legislation that benefits his constituents in District 62 and others throughout Oklahoma.
“It’s been an honor the past four years serving as a state representative,” Pae said. “I am willing to work with anyone and everyone who has good intentions. I think it’s more important to view ourselves as Oklahomans and Americans than Republicans and Democrats.”
Pae never intended to have a career in politics. Rather, he wanted to go to medical school but after looking at the requirements the Lawton native switched his field of studies to economics and political science. From there, he served as an intern for U.S. Rep. Tom Cole which gave him an introduction to the political world. Pae later worked as a part-time administrator for the City of Lawton.
“I learned this House seat would be open because the incumbent was seeking a Senate seat,” Pae recalled. “I consulted with my family and friends, and I had this idea that folks in my generation should be at the table and be part of the decision-making process. That’s when I decided to take the plunge.”
Pae won his 2018 election by 42 votes, won reelection in 2020 and had no challengers this year.
In the last several years, Pae has introduced or been a co-author of critical legislation involving human trafficking, mental health issues, education and domestic violence. The anti-human trafficking legislation was approved in the recently concluded session and should help state law enforcement agencies have a better grasp on the scope of the crime.
In addition, Pae was instrumental in passing the Harm Reduction or needle exchange program that allows law enforcement officers to exchange clean needles for dirty needles when on patrol.
“One in three officers will encounter someone with dirty needles when they’re out patrolling,” he said.
Pae also helped pass a domestic violence bill that allows a victim to terminate a housing lease without paying a large fee. In addition, Pae was the House author of Senate Bill 54 which designates some school districts or campuses as a Purple Star Campus if the campus applies and qualifies for that specific military designation. The new program begins with the 2022-2023 school term.
The young lawmaker points out the role of a legislator is a full-time gig although many state reps and senators have other jobs that provide them income. That’s not the case for Pae.
“This is all I do,” he admitted. “From my perspective there’s a lot to do as a successful legislator. We have interim studies when we’re not in session and I’m constantly attending events in my district. I want to debunk the theory that legislators only work four months a year at the Capitol. There’s a lot to do outside those four months of February through May.”
When Pae isn’t working as a lawmaker, he remains busy with civic duties as a board member of the Young Professionals of Lawton where he’s served four years. He’s also a board member of Leadership Lawton where he a graduate of Class XXVIII.
Pae has also been honored for his work. He was presented the service award by the Oklahoma State Regents for Higher Education, received the Friend of Local Government award from the Oklahoma Municipal League and was given the Reuben Brown award which is given to a graduate of Leadership Lawton.
Pae was recognized as the Freshman Legislator of the Year by the Oklahoma Public Employees Association and also received the Rising Star award from the International Leadership Foundation.
Pae graduated from Lawton High School and the University of Oklahoma. He also received a master’s degree in public administration.