Sen. Adelson announces he will not seek another term

Sen. Tom Adelson said after careful consideration, he has decided against seeking reelection to the State Senate. Adleson represented Tulsa District 33 for two terms and under term limits, could have served another four years.

“I want to thank my supporters for their encouragement and commitment to improving state government and to making Oklahoma a great place to live and work and raise a family,” said Adelson, D-Tulsa. “I am so very grateful for the chance to listen and learn about their concerns and ideas to make Oklahoma an even better state.”

During Adelson’s eight years in the Senate, the district was located in Tulsa’s mid-town area. After the last redistricting, it was moved to south Tulsa and Broken Arrow.

Adelson’s public service actually began before seeking elected office. He is a founding Board Member of the Tulsa Coalition of Children’s Health as well as a former president and past board member of the Tulsa Mental Health Association. Adelson is also a member of the Community Hospital Authority in Tulsa and served on the OU Health Care Task Force. Prior to being elected to the State Senate in 2004, he served as then Gov. Brad Henry’s Secretary of Health.

Senate Democratic Leader Sean Burrage thanked Adelson for his years of service.

“Senator Adelson has been a tireless advocate for greater access to health care. He was also critical in the bi-partisan effort to secure the residency program in Tulsa for the OSU College of Osteopathic Medicine,” said Burrage, D-Claremore. “His intellect, passion and comprehensive knowledge of these issues and others were invaluable to the Senate.”

A partner in an oil and gas business, Adelson is also a practicing attorney in the Tulsa metro.

“I want to thank my colleagues in both parties who have made my public service so meaningful. I’ve enjoyed my work in the Senate, and it has been an honor and privilege to serve the residents of District 33 for the past eight years.” Adelson said.