Michael Brooks-JimenezServing

Michael Brooks-Jimenez

State SenateDemocrat

OK-SD-44 State Senate

Mexican-American·Democratic Caucus Chair (2025-present)

Why This Race Matters

Brooks-Jimenez is the first Latino in Oklahoma Senate history and now serves as Democratic Caucus Chair, the highest leadership position a Democrat holds in the chamber. His term ends November 2026. He has run unopposed in both 2018 and 2022, signaling strong hold on SD-44.

SD-44 covers parts of southern Oklahoma City with significant Latino population. Brooks-Jimenez flipped the seat from Republican control in 2017 after Ralph Shortey's resignation (Shortey was later sentenced to 15 years for child sex trafficking). As founder of the Oklahoma Legislative Latino Caucus, he is the most prominent Latino political figure in Oklahoma. His term ends November 2026; he has run unopposed in both 2018 and 2022. No opponents have filed as of early 2026. Oklahoma candidate filing period opens April 2026.

Key dates to watch: General Election on November 3, 2026.

About

Michael Brooks-Jimenez is the FIRST Latino member of the Oklahoma State Senate, elected in a 2017 special election to fill the vacancy caused by the resignation of Ralph Shortey. Born and raised on the south side of Oklahoma City to a white father (Bud Brooks) and a Mexican-American mother (Patricia Jimenez Brooks), both educators, he grew up as the only blond and blue-eyed child in catechism classes at Little Flower Catholic Church, a Latino parish. He founded his immigration law firm, Michael Brooks-Jimenez P.C., in South Oklahoma City over two decades ago and has become a prominent voice for the rights of undocumented and legalized immigrants in Oklahoma.

Family & Heritage

Born in Oklahoma City to Bud Brooks (white, educator) and Patricia Jimenez Brooks (Mexican-American, educator at Oklahoma City Community College). His mother's family has deep roots in the south side of Oklahoma City's Latino community. Grew up attending Little Flower Catholic Church, a Latino parish. Married to Jessica Martinez-Brooks with two children, Joaquin and Lucy. Family attends St. James Catholic Church in South Oklahoma City. Fourth-generation South Oklahoma City family.

Political Career

Before Politics

Immigration attorney and small business owner. Founded Michael Brooks-Jimenez P.C. in South Oklahoma City specializing in immigration law, criminal defense, workers' compensation, and personal injury. Over 25 years of legal experience. Named among Best Immigration Lawyers in Oklahoma City by Forbes Advisor alongside associate Natalia Riveros-Jacobsen.

Education

Mount St. Mary High School; B.A. Political Science from Oklahoma State University; J.D. from University of Oklahoma College of Law (1995)

Awards & Recognition

NewDEAL Leader (2021); Latino Community Development Agency Board Member of the Year (2006); Forbes Best Immigration Lawyers in Oklahoma City

Key Issues & Priorities

*Immigration reform and immigrant driver's licenses
*Public education funding
*Latino community advocacy and economic development
*Criminal justice reform for young adults
*Workers' rights and public safety

Notable Legislation

SB140 - Delayed Sentencing Expansion

Expanded eligibility for Oklahoma Department of Corrections delayed sentencing program for young adults

enacted

SB399/SB669 - Driver's Licenses for Working Immigrants

Driver's license legislation for working immigrants who pay taxes (refiled multiple sessions)

introduced

Opposition to HB 4156

Advocacy against Oklahoma anti-immigration bill

Endorsements

NewDEAL Leaders (2021)
Leadership Oklahoma City graduate
South Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce

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