DUNCAN – Later this month Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt will be the keynote speaker at this year’s Stephens County GOP Fish Fry.
The annual fundraiser draws Republicans from across the Sooner State to the Stephens County Fairgrounds and Expo Center in Duncan. With scores of elected officials and like-minded voters supporting the Grand Old Party, the fish fry is the second largest gathering of Republicans in the state. Officials are predicting the event to be sold out quickly.
“Other than the State Convention this is the largest gathering of Republicans in Oklahoma each year,” said local GOP Chairman Leon Farris. “And this year, being a very active political year heading into the primary election coming up in June we expect a huge turnout.”
Most Republicans running for office will be available to meet with voters, disperse literature and answer questions about political issues affecting state and local government, according to a Stephens County GOP release.
In addition to meeting with candidates, those who attend can enjoy fresh fried catfish and all the usual trimmings.
“A lot of people believe that we get funding from the RNC (Republican National Committee), but we don’t,” said Farris. “The money raised at this event is used locally to have a retail location where voters can come and meet candidates, get yard signs and other material and help promote our local candidates.”
A private reception with photo opportunities will be held at 5:00 p.m. for those who purchase a table at the event.
Individual tickets are $30. To purchase a table of 10, which includes two reception tickets, is $300. Tickets will not be available at the door.
Proceeds from ticket sales and an auction of donated items support the local party.
The fish fry is set for 6 p.m., Saturday, May 21 at the Arena Building, 2002 S. 13 St., in Duncan.
To reserve tickets, contact GOP Chairman Leon Farris at (580) 656-7951 or by email at leon@wpmonline.com.