N'Kiyla Thomas
Elections and appointments
Personal
Contact
N'Kiyla Thomas (Democratic Party) is running for election to the U.S. Senate to represent Oklahoma. She declared candidacy for the 2026 election.[source]
Thomas completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
N'Kiyla Thomas was born in Ardmore, Oklahoma. She earned a high school diploma from Ardmore High School. Her career experience includes working as a nurse, community health worker, and stay-at-home parent. She has been affiliated with the Chickasaw Nation, autism support groups and advocacy, military spouse networks, and veterans advocacy.[1]
Elections
2026
See also: United States Senate election in Oklahoma, 2026
Note: At this time, Ballotpedia is combining all declared candidates for this election into one list under a general election heading. As primary election dates are published, this information will be updated to separate general election candidates from primary candidates as appropriate.
General election
The general election will occur on November 3, 2026.
Endorsements
Ballotpedia is gathering information about candidate endorsements. To send us an endorsement, click here.
2026
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
N'Kiyla Thomas completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2025. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Thomas' responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
Expand all | Collapse all
I’m N’Kiyla Thomas—a Chickasaw citizen, mother, nurse, and military spouse—running to be a voice for working families, underserved communities, and everyday Oklahomans. I was born and raised in Ardmore, Oklahoma, and I know firsthand the struggles of navigating our healthcare, education, and economic systems while raising a neurodivergent child and supporting a husband serving our country. I’m not a career politician—I’m a woman who’s lived through the broken policies we’re told to accept. I’m running to fight for accessible healthcare, better support for teachers and nurses, real autism services for families, and policies that prioritize people over corporations. My lived experience gives me the courage to challenge the status quo—and the heart to never forget who I’m fighting for.
- Putting Oklahoma Families First
I’m fighting for accessible healthcare, affordable childcare, and support for parents—especially those raising children with disabilities. Our families deserve better, and I won’t stop until they get it.
- Real Support for Teachers, Nurses, and Working People
As a nurse and a mom, I know burnout is real. I’m committed to better wages, safer workplaces, and policies that help—not hurt—the people who keep our state running.
- People Over Politics
I’m not backed by billionaires or lobbyists—I’m backed by lived experience. I’m running to challenge the status quo and bring real change to Oklahoma, from rural roads to Capitol Hill.
I’m deeply passionate about healthcare, education, and family support policy. As a nurse, I’ve seen how broken our healthcare system is—especially in rural areas—and I’m fighting to expand access, lower costs, and protect reproductive rights. As a mom of a neurodivergent child, I’m committed to improving autism services, strengthening IEPs, and making sure every child has what they need to thrive. I’m also pushing for stronger support for teachers, nurses, and military families & Veterans—because the people doing the most for our communities deserve policies that actually support them. These aren’t just issues to me—they’re personal.
I look up to my grandma. She was a Black woman born into segregation who came from nothing and still built a life rooted in strength, resilience, and kindness. She worked 34 years in dietary services and never met a stranger — her warmth and work ethic left a legacy everywhere she went. She’s always paved a way for me, showing me what it means to lead with grit and grace. She is the woman, mother, and grandmother I strive to be every single day.
If I had to recommend one thing to understand my political philosophy, it would be “The Purpose of Power” by Alicia Garza. It speaks to the importance of grassroots organizing, community voice, and building power from the ground up—especially for people who’ve been ignored or underestimated. I also think watching "13th" by Ava DuVernay is essential to understanding how systems of oppression still impact so many communities and why I fight so hard for justice and equity. My political lens is shaped by lived experience, not privilege—and I believe policy should be grounded in compassion, accountability, and a deep understanding of real people’s struggles.
The most important characteristics for an elected official are integrity, accountability, empathy, and courage. We need leaders who will stand up for what’s right even when it’s hard, who listen more than they speak, and who stay grounded in the real lives of the people they serve. I believe in leading with transparency, telling the truth—even when it’s uncomfortable—and fighting for those who feel forgotten or ignored. An elected official should never forget who put them in office or who they’re there to fight for.
I lead with empathy, grit, and a deep commitment to justice. As a military spouse, nurse, and mother of a child with autism, I know firsthand what it means to fight for people who are often overlooked. I bring lived experience, not political polish — and that’s exactly what we need more of. I listen with intention, act with integrity, and I don’t back down when the work gets hard. I’m not here to play politics — I’m here to get things done for the people of Oklahoma.
The core responsibilities of a U.S. Senator are to represent the people, protect their rights, and fight for their well-being. That means writing and voting on legislation that improves lives—like making healthcare more affordable, strengthening public education, and creating economic opportunities for all. It also means holding government agencies and corporations accountable, listening to constituents, and showing up for the communities you serve—not just during election season, but every single day. Most importantly, it’s about putting people over politics and never forgetting who you work for: the people of Oklahoma.
I want to leave a legacy of empowerment and progress. I want to be remembered as someone who fought tirelessly for the underserved, who stood up for the most vulnerable in our society, and who made sure every Oklahoman had the resources they needed to thrive. I want to leave behind a state where healthcare is accessible, where education is equitable, and where families can succeed regardless of their background. Most importantly, I want to leave a legacy of hope, showing that change is possible when we put people over politics.
The first historical event I remember was 9/11. I was in first grade, and we had just come in from morning recess when my teacher — my favorite to this day — Mrs. Bryant (now Noland), walked in and said, “Hey everyone, I just heard some terrible news in the teachers’ lounge.” She turned on the TV, and that’s when I saw the second plane hit the tower.
Even at that young age, I knew something had changed. I couldn’t fully grasp what was happening, but I could feel the heaviness in the room. That moment stayed with me — not just the shock, but the way my teacher held space for us, made us feel safe, and reminded us that even in tragedy, people come together.
My very first job was at 14 years old through the Chickasaw Nation Youth Program — a summer gig that gave me my first taste of responsibility (and a lot of powdered sugar). I worked at a local donut shop, waking up before sunrise to help open, clean, and serve the early crowd. I was sticky, tired, and proud. That job taught me the value of showing up, staying humble, and keeping your community fed — even if it’s just with coffee and a dozen glazed.
My favorite book is Number the Stars by Lois Lowry. This historical novel, set during World War II, tells the story of a young Danish girl named Annemarie Johansen, who helps her Jewish friend escape the Nazis. The book highlights bravery, friendship, and the courage of ordinary people in extraordinary times. It teaches the power of standing up for what's right, even when it’s difficult. The relationship between Annemarie and her family, especially her sister, and the loyalty and selflessness they demonstrate in helping others, are powerful themes that resonated with me. Number the Stars is a reminder of the impact one person’s actions can have on the lives of others, even in the darkest times. It’s a story of hope, resilience, and the importance of never being silent in the face of injustice. I believe it’s a book that can teach us all valuable lessons about courage, empathy, and standing up for those who need help. It’s a timeless story that stays with you long after you finish reading it.
If I could be any fictional character, I would choose June Osborne from The Handmaid's Tale. She's a character who embodies strength and resilience. Despite the unimaginable oppression she faces, June never stops fighting for her freedom and the freedom of others. Her unwavering determination to stand up against a corrupt system is something I deeply admire. June's courage and ability to persevere in the face of adversity are qualities I hope to channel in my own life and work.
Them Changes" by Thundercat! That's a great pick. It's got such a smooth vibe, but the lyrics hit hard too. It's all about growth, change, and the struggles that come with it, but still finding a way to move through it. Definitely a song that sticks with you!
One of the biggest struggles in my life has been navigating the complexities of being a military spouse while raising a child with special needs. Balancing deployments, frequent moves, and the emotional strain that comes with it, all while trying to ensure that my son Treycen receives the support he needs, has been incredibly challenging. It’s been a test of patience, resilience, and adaptability. But through it all, I’ve learned the value of community, persistence, and advocating for the things that matter most, like my children’s well-being and the future we can build together.
Over the next decade, I believe the United States faces several pressing challenges that demand immediate and sustained attention.
Healthcare reform is at the top of that list. We must address the inequities in our healthcare system, ensuring that everyone has access to affordable, high-quality care, especially for underserved communities. As a nurse, I understand firsthand the challenges within the healthcare system, and we need to tackle the rising costs of healthcare while making sure that care is equitable for all, regardless of their background or location.
Climate change is another urgent issue. The effects of a warming planet are already being felt in communities across the country, with natural disasters becoming more frequent and severe. We need to invest in renewable energy, protect our environment, and promote sustainable practices across industries to secure a healthy future for generations to come.
Additionally, education is a key area of concern. Our education system needs to be modernized and better funded, and we must ensure that every child, regardless of their background, has access to a high-quality education. This includes addressing disparities in special education, autism care, and workforce support for educators.
Lastly, we must deal with the growing wealth gap and the challenge of a fair economy. The cost of living is rising while wages remain stagnant for many working families, especially in rural communities. We must find solutions to lift people out of poverty, ensure affordable housing, and create economic opportunities for all Americans.
These challenges require bold action, compassion, and collaboration. I’m ready to work toward a better, more inclusive future, and I believe that by coming together, we can overcome these obstacles and make America a more just and prosperous nation for everyone. I strongly believe that term limits are essential for ensuring that our government remains accountable and responsive to the people. No one should hold power for too long, as it can lead to complacency, corruption, and a detachment from the real needs of the people they are supposed to serve. Term limits would ensure fresh perspectives and new ideas are brought to the table, preventing any individual from becoming too entrenched in the system. We need leaders who are in it for the right reasons, not for power or personal gain, and term limits are a way to create a healthier, more dynamic political environment. I support strong, enforceable term limits for both the House and the Senate to ensure that we continually have leaders who are focused on serving the people, not holding on to office indefinitely.
The U.S. Senate is unique in its role as a deliberative body, meant to provide a check on the more immediate, fast-paced decisions of the House. It was designed to represent states rather than districts, meaning each state, no matter its size, has equal representation through two Senators. This structure allows for longer-term thinking, as Senators serve six-year terms compared to the House’s two-year terms, enabling them to take a broader view on policies that affect the nation. Additionally, the Senate has special responsibilities like confirming judicial nominees and ratifying treaties, giving it a pivotal role in shaping the judiciary and foreign policy. It’s also where we see more bipartisan collaboration, especially on complex issues, because of the need to build broad consensus across diverse political views and backgrounds.
While previous experience in government or politics can certainly be beneficial, it is not a prerequisite for being an effective Senator. In fact, fresh perspectives and new ideas are often exactly what we need to shake up a system that is too often bogged down by partisanship and special interests. I believe the best leaders are those who understand the struggles of everyday people and are willing to challenge the status quo for real change. Having experience in politics can bring knowledge of the process, but genuine passion for serving your community and a deep sense of accountability to your constituents are what really matter. Senators should be more than just career politicians—they should be public servants who are in it to make people’s lives better, no matter their background.
I respect the filibuster when it’s used to educate and raise awareness about critical issues, much like Senator Cory Booker did in his filibuster on the nomination of Jeff Sessions as Attorney General. Booker used the filibuster not just to block the nomination but to shine a spotlight on the issues of racial justice, civil rights, and the impact of the nominee’s policies on vulnerable communities. It’s a tool that can force important conversations to the forefront and ensure that those who might be affected by decisions are heard. When used for a good cause, the filibuster becomes more than just a delay tactic—it becomes a platform for education and advocacy, a way to mobilize public support, and a way to stand firm on values like justice, equality, and human rights. That’s the kind of filibuster I can get behind—one that uplifts and inspires action for positive change.
Yes — Senator Paul Wellstone is a strong model. He believed in standing unapologetically with working families, the underserved, and people with disabilities — even when it wasn’t politically popular. Like Wellstone, I’m not running to play politics or preserve the status quo. I’m running to fight for what’s right, even if it means being the lone voice in the room.
He once said, “Politics is not about power. It’s about the improvement of people’s lives.” That’s the energy I’m bringing to the Senate — with backbone, kindness, and zero tolerance for injustice.
Why don't skeletons fight each other?
They don't have the guts!
— I literally LOL at this when I see it! I would evaluate a judicial nominee based on their commitment to fairness, legal integrity, and protecting the rights of all people — not just the powerful. I’d look at their judicial record, writings, and past rulings to assess whether they uphold equal justice under the law, respect precedent, and demonstrate a strong understanding of the Constitution.
I’d ask:
Do they protect civil rights and liberties?
Do they show impartiality regardless of politics or pressure?
Do they have a history of treating marginalized communities with dignity and respect?
If the answers don’t align with justice, equity, and the public good, then it’s a no from me. In building relationships with other senators, I would prioritize kindness and respect above all else. I believe that mutual respect is the foundation of any productive working relationship, and it’s essential to maintain a sense of professionalism even when we don’t always agree. I’m not here to make friendships for the sake of friendships; I’m here to get work done for the people of Oklahoma and this nation.
I would aim to collaborate effectively with my colleagues, whether we’re aligned on every issue or not. Listening, being open-minded, and seeking common ground would be key principles in my approach. While I may not be the most “friendly” in the traditional sense, I would always work to show empathy and consideration for the diverse views and needs of my fellow senators, so we can find practical solutions to the challenges facing our nation.
Ultimately, it’s not about building personal connections, but about fostering a productive, respectful environment that serves the greater good. I’m here to advocate for the people of Oklahoma and contribute to meaningful legislation that benefits all Americans. Yes — but only when it doesn’t compromise people’s dignity, rights, or survival.
Compromise can be a powerful tool in policymaking when it brings people together to solve real problems. But too often, "compromise" in politics means telling vulnerable communities to wait their turn or settle for less. I’m not here for that.
I believe in finding common ground — not in watering down justice. I’ll work with anyone, left or right, if it means getting things done for working families, kids, and communities like mine. But I won’t negotiate away people’s humanity just to pass a bill. The U.S. Senate should use its investigative powers as a tool for truth, accountability, and transparency — not as a political weapon or spectacle.
That means:
Exposing corruption and misuse of public funds
Investigating corporate abuses that harm workers, consumers, or the environment
Holding federal agencies and officials accountable when they fail the people they serve
Demanding answers when communities — especially those historically ignored — are left behind or targeted
In short, investigative powers should be used to protect the public, not to protect power. If we’re not using that authority to speak up for the voiceless, then we’re not doing our jobs. Sally’s List, and more to come.
When deciding whether to confirm presidential appointees to their Cabinet, my criteria would be based on competence, integrity, and commitment to the people’s interests. First and foremost, I would evaluate whether the nominee has the necessary qualifications, expertise, and experience to effectively perform the duties of the position. This means looking at their background in relevant fields and their track record of leadership and success. I would also assess their ethics, ensuring that they have a strong reputation for transparency, honesty, and accountability in their past roles.
Another critical factor would be their commitment to the values and needs of the American people. This includes their stance on important issues like healthcare, education, and social justice, and whether they have demonstrated a willingness to put the public good over special interests. Finally, I would take into consideration their ability to work collaboratively with others, as being in a Cabinet position requires working with a diverse group of people, including Congress and other branches of government.
In short, I would only confirm nominees who meet these criteria and who will put the interests of the American people above all else, ensuring that the Cabinet remains a body of competent and ethical leaders who are focused on serving the public good. Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions (HELP) – As a nurse and advocate for children with special needs, especially those with autism, I am passionate about healthcare reform, improving educational opportunities, and addressing the challenges faced by our workforce. This committee would allow me to push for better healthcare access, especially for underserved communities, and work on policies that strengthen our education system, from early childhood education to higher education.
Committee on Armed Services – As a military spouse, I understand the challenges faced by our service members and their families. I’m deeply committed to improving military family support, expanding resources for veterans, and ensuring that our armed forces have the tools and care they need to succeed. This committee would allow me to advocate for better policies for military families, including healthcare, mental health support, and military spouse employment opportunities.
Committee on Finance – I believe in fighting for policies that promote economic growth while addressing the struggles faced by working families, particularly in rural communities. Through this committee, I would work on tax reform, affordable healthcare, and finding ways to reduce the financial burden on working families, especially those dealing with the high cost of living.
Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation – I’m passionate about expanding access to broadband in rural areas, improving infrastructure, and supporting sustainable industries. This committee would allow me to push for the development of technology and infrastructure that supports Oklahoma’s growth, while creating jobs and improving the quality of life for residents in rural areas.
These committees align with my core values and priorities, and I am excited to work on policies! Financial transparency and government accountability are absolutely essential to a functioning democracy. People deserve to know where their tax dollars are going, and we must ensure that public funds are being used to benefit communities, not special interests or wasteful spending. We need stronger oversight to hold government agencies, contractors, and elected officials accountable for their actions and decisions. I believe in transparent budgeting, auditing, and ensuring that all spending aligns with the needs of working families, not just the wealthy or powerful. Elected officials should have a duty to be transparent about their decisions, how they’re voting, and why—and I’m committed to ensuring that those in power never forget who they are accountable to: the people.
Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.
Campaign finance summary
Note: The finance data shown here comes from the disclosures required of candidates and parties. Depending on the election or state, this may represent only a portion of all the funds spent on their behalf. Satellite spending groups may or may not have expended funds related to the candidate or politician on whose page you are reading this disclaimer. Campaign finance data from elections may be incomplete. For elections to federal offices, complete data can be found at the FEC website. Click here for more on federal campaign finance law and here for more on state campaign finance law.
See also
External links
- ↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on April 16, 2025
