Before things get too involved in that debate, we would like to take a minute to congratulate the candidates who have already won —— those who brought no opposition in the election.

Whether because their credibility with the public is so substantial, their political presence is so daunting or their opposition so disorganized, a lot of officeholders were guaranteed another term in office, which deserves public acknowledgement.

U.S. Rep. Jim Bridenstine may have been the most surprised person in the Tulsa-centered 1st Congressional District when no Republicans, Democrats or independents showed up to run against him. Bridenstine's first months in office were controversial at times and a political rule of thumb is that incumbents are more vulnerable after their first term in office, but no one was willing to take up the challenge. We congratulate him.

In the Legislature, enough Republicans were given byes by the opposition to virtually assure continued GOP dominance of both the Oklahoma House and Senate.

Several statewide officeholders, including state Auditor Gary Jones, Attorney General Scott Pruitt and Treasurer Ken Miller also walked back into office without a fight.

On a more local scene, we also congratulate County Commissioner Ron Peters and County Treasurer Dennis Semler on their no-election re-elections and former Tulsa Mayor Bill LaFortune on taking a district judge's seat without opposition.

There's still a spirited political campaign to come. Gov. Mary Fallin, U.S. Sen. Jim Inhofe, the state's congressional delegation except for Bridenstine, and many other incumbents drew opposition. The U.S. Senate seat being vacated by Tom Coburn has seven Republicans, three Democrats and an independent vying for it.

We look forward to a healthy debate on all those seats.

But before that gets rolling, we congratulate the ones who have already won. Your willingness to lead the community and serve the people is laudable. You have our thanks and our best wishes.