First Gentleman of Oklahoma |
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Great Seal of Oklahoma
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Style | Mr. Christensen |
Residence | Oklahoma Governor's Mansion |
Inaugural holder | Lillian Gallup Haskell |
Formation | November 16, 1907 |
Website | Office of the First Lady |
The First Lady or First Gentleman of Oklahoma is the title held by the spouse of the sitting Governor of Oklahoma. The First Lady or First Gentleman serves as the official host of the Oklahoma Governor's Mansion. As of 2011, there have been 25 First Ladies and one First Gentleman.
The current (and 1st) First Gentleman of Oklahoma is Wade Christensen, husband of Governor Mary Fallin. First Gentleman Christensen has been in that position since his wife assumed office in 2011.
The position of the First Spouse is not an elected one, carries no official duties, and receives no salary. However, the First Spouse holds a highly visible position in state government. The role of the First Spouse is the host of the Oklahoma Governor's Mansion. He or she organizes and attends official ceremonies and functions of state either along with, or in place of, the Governor.
It is common for the Governor's spouse to select specific, non-political, causes to promote. For instance, former First Lady Kim Henry had taken up promoting early childhood education. Incumbent First Gentleman Wade Christensen has mentioned his platform to revolve around sports in rural Oklahoma.