I’m Erica Watkins, a lifelong Oklahoman and a proud product of Oklahoma Public Schools. I earned a Bachelor of Science in Sociology from Oklahoma State, and a Master of Arts in Global Affairs: Global Economics and Development from The University of Oklahoma. 

I have two wonderful kiddos, Richard and Samuel. Richard is in kindergarten in Oklahoma Public Schools. He loves space and Minecraft. Samuel is 3, he loves monster trucks, singing, and dancing. My husband, Rick, is an amazing father and partner. He has served as an infantryman in the Oklahoma National Guard for over 20 years.

Like Rick, I served in the Oklahoma Army National Guard from 2007 – 2017 including a combat tour to Afghanistan in 2011-2012. It was there that my entire worldview shifted. I worked with Afghan women who defied odds, including death, to receive an education and seek careers. My experience in Afghanistan, working with resilient Afghan women, has fueled my passion for empowerment and seeking equality. The women I met in Afghanistan had an unwavering determination to pursue education and careers in the face of extreme challenges. This has shown me the transformative power of learning and its potential to drive social change. 

I never expected to run for office but seeing the determination of those women and now seeing the challenges facing my sons and our state,, I can no longer sit on the sidelines. I am dedicated to fighting for policies that promote educational access, gender and racial equality, protecting workers, and seeking social justice in Oklahoma. 

Running for State Representative is my way continuing my service to this state and country by giving back and working towards a brighter future for ALL. Oklahomans. You and me. My children and yours.