OC alumnus José Cruz won his primary election for Oklahoma House District 89 

The former broadcast journalism graduate and current lawyer is a proud resident of Oklahoma City’s south side who spends his time fighting for overlooked and voiceless families. 

September 5, 2020

As Oklahoma Christian University alumnus José Cruz explains on his campaign website for the Oklahoma Legislature, he grew up in a working-class family, an experience that instilled a sincere desire to achieve the “American dream.” Working toward a better future while at OC, he was a part of the Eagle Angle team as an anchor for two years, and he later became the first college graduate in his family. Now, he is close to becoming a state representative before he turns 30. 

Associate Professor of Communication Josh Watson recalled Cruz’s time at OC.

 “José was an excellent student,” Watson said. “He demonstrated his faith by pursuing excellence in his work as a broadcast journalism major, and it’s been enjoyable seeing his success as a lawyer, too.”  

As Cruz has laid out during his campaign, he believes the south Oklahoma City is home to many great, hard-working Oklahomans. Cruz’s father had a career in construction and Cruz spent many summers and weekends working with him to help their family. Cruz’s mother, a homemaker and educator at heart, raised four children. Those parents instilled in him the values of hard work, faith and perseverance. 

Cruz found a way to help others through the legal process working in a law firm. He then graduated from the Oklahoma City University School of Law. While attending, he volunteered in legal clinics and taught legal principles to high school students in south Oklahoma City. 

At the age of 29 and a newcomer to politics, Cruz won the Democratic primary election this summer for House District 89. The win was considered a landslide since his 699 votes were 74.36% of all votes cast. Cruz’s campaign and plan for the future focus on education, crime and infrastructure.

After winning the Democratic primary election, Cruz will face a Republican opponent in the general election in November. Cruz is heavily favored to win.  

“It was great to see him run,” Watson said. “It would be even greater to see him win again in November.” 

To learn more about Cruz and his campaign, visit www.votejosecruz.com.