OKLAHOMA CITY (March 24, 2026) - During a press conference today, Governor Kevin Stitt announced his appointment of Alan Armstrong to the U.S. Senate. A longtime Tulsan and seasoned energy executive, Armstrong brings more than three decades of leadership experience within one of Oklahoma’s most vital industries.
“Alan Armstrong is a third-generation Oklahoman, staunch conservative, respected business leader, and devoted family man with an inspiring American Dream story,” said Governor Stitt. “Having led a Fortune 500 company headquartered in Oklahoma, he holds deeply relevant knowledge and understanding of the issues and values that matter to our state. A fierce defender of Oklahoma jobs and our state’s role as the center for domestic production of oil and gas, few have worked harder for the America First energy agenda.
“He is entering the U.S. Senate at a critical time for advancing reforms to secure America’s energy future. His perspective will undoubtedly be influential in moving the needle on permitting reform to unlock American competitiveness and energy affordability for generations to come,” Governor Stitt concluded.
Armstrong is strongly aligned with President Trump on energy policy. While leading Williams Companies, he helped revive the Northeast Supply Enhancement (NESE) expansion of its Transco system and has also devoted thousands of hours into reviving the Constitution Pipeline effort.
“Oklahoma has been home to my family for now five generations. Oklahomans have always shown leadership in providing energy solutions that improve the lives for every American. This role provides the opportunity to continue this leadership,” said Armstrong. “Americans are seeing higher and higher utility bills because our own permitting processes have allowed opposition to stand in the way of building environmentally responsible infrastructure that connects the nation’s abundant resources to consumers’ growing demand.
“My short time in the Senate will be tightly focused on meaningful permitting reform to get Americans access to whatever affordable energy solutions they choose,” Armstrong continued. “Infrastructure is foundational to growing our economy, ensuring American energy independence, and driving innovative solutions that Oklahomans have always delivered.”
About Alan Armstrong
A seasoned energy executive, Alan Armstrong has held key leadership roles at Williams Companies, a leading provider of energy infrastructure in North America and the largest company in Oklahoma. Appointed to the role of Executive Chairman of the Board of Directors in July 2025, Armstrong transitioned from his long-standing position as president and CEO, a role he held since 2011.
As Executive Chairman, Armstrong has continued to guide Williams’ long-term vision and governance, supporting the company’s mission to deliver clean, reliable, and affordable energy while advancing innovation and sustainability in the energy sector. Under his leadership, Williams became a dominant force in the natural gas sector, now handling approximately a third of all U.S. natural gas volumes.
Armstrong led Williams through a period of strong growth and strategic expansion, driven by successful execution on major pipeline projects, disciplined financial management, and capitalizing on favorable market trends in natural gas demand. Armstrong was instrumental in shaping the company’s natural gas-focused strategy, significantly expanding its transmission, storage, gathering, and processing infrastructure.
Prior to being named CEO of Williams, Armstrong led the company’s Midstream and olefins business unit through a period of growth and expansion as Senior Vice President – Midstream. He also served in a number of operational and commercial roles in various business units at Williams. Armstrong began his career at Williams four decades ago as an engineer and steadily rose through the ranks, demonstrating a deep commitment to operational excellence, strategic growth, and environmental stewardship.
Armstrong is the former Chair of the National Petroleum Council and is a founding member of Natural Allies for a Clean Energy Future. He serves as Chair of the Board of Trustees for the University of Oklahoma Foundation and is a board member for BOK Financial Corp. In addition, he is the former Chair of Junior Achievement USA. Armstrong earned his bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from the University of Oklahoma.
Armstrong resides in Tulsa with his wife of 40 years. They have four children and three grandchildren.
Headshot is available here.
What they're saying
“Thank you, Alan, for your willingness to serve. Alan has been a friend for years. His deep experience with permitting and building major energy infrastructure will be a real asset as we work to deliver affordable, reliable energy for the American people,” said U.S. Secretary of Energy Chris Wright.
“Alan Armstrong is a proven leader who understands the energy needs of our nation and will be a great ally in the U.S. Senate to advance President Trump’s energy dominance agenda. I look forward to working with Alan in his new role to continue advancing policies that will benefit Oklahoma and all Americans,” said U.S. EPA Administrator Lee Zeldin.
“Congratulations to Alan Armstrong on becoming Oklahoma's newest U.S. Senator. Alan is a strong addition to our team. I look forward to working alongside him to unleash American energy,” said U.S. Senator John Barrasso, Senate Majority Whip.
“Congratulations to my friend Alan Armstrong on his appointment to serve our state in the United States Senate. I am grateful he and his family are willing to sacrifice their time to serve. Markwayne leaves large boots to fill, but with Alan’s strong background in energy and an understanding of what powers our economy, he brings real-world experience at a critical time for the American economy. I look forward to working with him to support Oklahoma workers, strengthen our energy independence, and keep costs low for families,” said Senator James Lankford (R-OK).
“Congratulations to Alan Armstron on being appointed to represent Oklahoma in the United States Senate. He brings a wealth of experience and truly understands the importance of and America-first energy agenda, which is crucial to Oklahoma and our great country,” said Rep. Stephanie Bice (R-OK).
“Congratulations to Alan Armstrong on his appointment to serve Oklahoma in the United States Senate. I look forward to working with him to support our great state and the people who call it home,” said Rep. Tom Cole (R-OK).
“I commend Governor Stitt for appointing Alan Armstrong to the United States Senate. Senate designee Armstrong’s appointment will benefit both the State of Oklahoma and our great nation. His principled leadership, his commitment to conservative values, and his deep understanding of our nation’s energy and infrastructure needs demonstrate he is the perfect appointment for this important moment. I appreciate both his and his family’s willingness to engage in public service,” said David Bernhardt, 53rd U.S. Secretary of the Interior.
“I've known Alan for years. He is serious, steady, and deeply committed to American energy leadership. At a moment when the Senate is debating permitting reform, pipeline infrastructure, and the role of natural gas in our national security strategy, Governor Stitt just put the right man in the right seat. Alan has said he views this appointment as public service, not a political opportunity. That's exactly right, and exactly the kind of person the Senate needs right now. Oklahoma is well-served. So is the country,” said Dan Brouillette, 15th United States Secretary of Energy.
“Alan Armstrong will do a great job for the people of Oklahoma and will bring real energy expertise to the U.S. Senate to further our country’s energy dominance agenda,” said Andrew Wheeler, former EPA Administrator.
“As a committed leader and servant of his state and country, Alan Armstrong will be a strong addition to the U.S. Senate. His deep knowledge of the energy industry will be vital to our nation at this key moment for American global energy leadership, especially as we strive for meaningful bipartisan permitting reforms,” said Stephen W. Bergstrom, Former President, Chief Executive Officer and General Partner, American Midstream.
“I’ve known Alan Armstrong for many years as a man of vision and high integrity. We at Kinder Morgan applaud his appointment to the United States Senate,” said Kimberly Dang, CEO, Kinder Morgan.
“I have had the privilege of serving as a Williams director alongside Alan for the last 5 years and I cannot think of a better leader to join the Senate at this critical moment in the energy industry. Alan will bring his thoughtful, pragmatic, and high-integrity approach to infrastructure permitting reform and other policy initiatives that are key to ensuring that the U.S. unleashes the resources needed to meet the growing energy demands of the global economy. Congrats Alan Armstrong!” said Stacey Dore, Chief Strategy & Sustainability Officer, Vistra Corp; Independent Board Director, Williams Companies.
“I have known Alan for many years and have seen him in multiple arenas. He is a deeply analytical and thoughtful problem solver. Alan considers all viewpoints before landing on solutions. He demonstrates patience and quiet confidence and then, once he sees a path forward, displays tremendous integrity and courage. He will be a uniter, not a divider, as he advocates for policies that are in our nation’s best interest. I can think of no one more qualified in experience and temperament than Alan in bringing a disciplined mindset to the United States Senate. He would be an outstanding choice for United States Senator and would serve our country and Oklahoma with grit and dedication,” said Thomas E Jorden, Chairman and CEO, Coterra Energy Inc.
“I've had the opportunity to know and work alongside Alan Armstrong over the years, and I can say without hesitation that he is exactly the kind of leader you want representing Oklahoma in the United States Senate. I strongly support his appointment by Governor Kevin Stitt. Alan brings a grounded, practical approach to leadership. He understands how to take on complex challenges, align people around a common purpose, and deliver real outcomes. I've always respected his ability to see the full system - how infrastructure, markets, and policy all come together to serve customers and communities. What sets Alan apart is not just his experience, but how he leads. He listens, he engages, and he operates with a long-term mindset. He understands that energy is foundational to economic growth, reliability, and national security - and he approaches those responsibilities with seriousness and humility. At a time when the country needs thoughtful, solution-oriented leadership, Alan is someone who will show up prepared, ask the right questions, and work constructively to get things done. Oklahoma will be very well served by Alan's leadership, and I'm confident he will make a meaningful impact in the Senate,” said Scott Hallam, President and CEO, Boardwalk Pipeline Partners.
“With decades of experience in the energy industry, Alan Armstrong brings insight into how U.S. production, infrastructure and exports deliver reliable, affordable energy for American families. At a consequential moment for global energy, his expertise in the Senate will be invaluable in shaping federal energy policy and sustaining American energy dominance,” said Ryan Lance, Chairman and CEO, ConocoPhillips.
“It is a great honor and privilege that Alan Armstrong is asked to serve as a United States Senator. Alan has decades of proven leadership, dedication, and support in collaborating with leaders in shaping policy, driving critical industry infrastructure, and making communities a better place in which to raise families. He will serve with great integrity and focus. I fully support this appointment,” said Carri Lockhart, CEO and Managing Director, Karoon Energy.
“Alan is a respected corporate leader with deep experience shaping national energy policy. He brings a clear understanding of the complexities facing energy infrastructure development and a principled commitment to affordable and reliable energy that supports American families, businesses, and economic leadership,” said Sid McAnnally, CEO, ONE Gas.
“While Oklahoma enjoys a diverse economy driven by energy, aerospace, agriculture, and medical innovation, I am especially pleased to see Governor Stitt select an appointee from the energy sector. I’ve known Alan Armstrong for over 35 years, including the last four as a member of the Williams Companies board of directors. He is a person of high integrity and can be relied upon to help drive badly needed permitting reform to ensure a reliable and affordable energy future for Americans. Alan has not only led the company’s development of important midstream and transportation infrastructure, but has increasingly been involved in the actual electrical power generation development critical for our country’s economic and national security future,” said Rick Muncrief, Former President, CEO, and board member of Devon Energy (DVN).
“Alan Armstrong is a man of integrity with a deep love of country and relentless work ethic. His efforts to mobilize the U.S. energy industry around an actionable blueprint for permitting reform will help drive American achievement over the next several decades. I cannot think of a more qualified person to represent Oklahoma to help position the U.S. for even greater success,” said François Poirier, President and CEO, TC Energy.
“Alan Armstrong is a globally recognized energy industry spokesperson, with unmatched leadership and experience. He has a measured and confident demeanor and always has considered the many stakeholders involved in the multitude of large complex projects he has skilfully led. He will, without a doubt, represent the State of Oklahoma proudly,” said Peter A. Ragauss, Former Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Baker Hughes Incorporated.
“Alan Armstrong has spent his career serving the people of Oklahoma by helping build and run one of the nation’s leading energy companies. Through his leadership at Williams, he has strengthened the state’s economy, supported thousands of jobs and advanced infrastructure that not only benefits Oklahoma, but helps the entire country by delivering reliable, affordable energy to communities across America. That same commitment to service, combined with his deep understanding of our energy systems and infrastructure, makes him exceptionally well-positioned to serve our nation in the U.S. Senate. At a time when America needs practical leadership to advance energy security and modernize permitting, Alan brings the experience, integrity, and perspective needed to help move our country forward,” said Toby Z. Rice, President & CEO, EQT.
“Working with Alan on the Williams Board over the last 10 years, I consider him the best CEO in the midstream energy sector and know he is the right person for the right time to help get an infrastructure bill passed in the US Senate,” said Scott Sheffield, American business executive and former CEO of Pioneer Natural Resources, Williams Board Member.
“Alan Armstrong is a well respected industry leader who always puts Oklahoma and the energy industry first. His deep infrastructure knowledge combined with his principled leadership skills will be key to getting necessary permitting reforms passed. This will ensure we can economically and efficiently build the infrastructure needed to meet the tremendous growth in energy needed by our country,” said William H. Spence, Retired Chairman of the Board and CEO, PPl Corporation.
“I have known Alan Armstrong for years. He will make a great senator. He brings a great level of expertise in an area that our country needs to address, permit reform. I enthusiastically endorse Alan,” said Jim Teague, CEO of Enterprise Products.
“It has been an honor to serve the Williams Companies as a director the past 3 years under Alan Armstrong's leadership. He is an inspirational leader, forward thinker and a man of integrity. As President & CEO of Williams Companies, Alan brought a laser focus on energy security and the impact the industry has on the world economy from an energy security and environmental impact,” said Jesse Tyson, Retired President and Chief Executive Officer, ExxonMobil Inter-Americas.
“Alan Armstrong’s results-driven record in the energy industry demonstrates the type of leadership we need to drive results in the U.S. Senate. I’ve known Alan for many years, and his commitment to service, effective energy policy experience, and ability to work across perspectives to get things done will serve the country well,” said Stephen D. Westhoven, President and CEO of New Jersey Natural Resources (NJR).
“I applaud Governor Stitt's decision to appoint Alan Armstrong to fill the remainder of Senator Markwayne Mullin’s term. I’ve known Alan for many years and am confident he will represent Oklahoma with integrity, discipline and a commitment to advancing policies that will strengthen America’s future. Energy security and infrastructure reliability are key issues for America’s economic competitiveness. Alan brings exactly the kind of practical leadership and real-world experience we need in Washington. Throughout his career, Alan has demonstrated a deep understanding of the energy sector, regulatory landscape and the importance of balancing growth with responsible environmental stewardship,” said Mike Wirth, Chairman and CEO of Chevron.
“Governor Stitt’s appointment of Alan Armstrong to the U.S. Senate is a proud moment for Williams and a testament to Alan’s four decades of principled leadership. We are grateful for his service to Oklahoma and to our nation. We know that Alan will bring incredible leadership to the Senate and will continue to champion American energy and prosperity,” said Chad Zamarin, Williams President and CEO.
“Mr. Armstrong, who is a former Chair of the National Petroleum Council, will provide a strategic, solutions-oriented approach to legislating, especially on critical energy policies. Mr. Armstrong has a clear understanding of the role energy infrastructure plays in reliability, affordability, and national security, and at at time of rising energy demand and growing reliability challenges, he will lead a strong, informed perspective to the Senate on strengthening America’s energy infrastructure,” said Amy Andryszak, President and CEO, Interstate Natural Gas Association of America (INGAA).
“We congratulate former Business Roundtable member Alan Armstrong, Executive Chairman of The Williams Companies, on his appointment to the United States Senate. Alan is an exceptional executive, leader and person, and his deep understanding of business and the economy will be a valuable asset in public service. We look forward to working with Senator Armstrong in the months ahead on policies that promote growth, competitiveness and opportunity,” said Joshua Bolten, CEO, Business Roundtable.
“Few people understand what it takes to increase access to affordable, reliable energy better than Alan Armstrong. His depth of experience gives Oklahoma – and the nation – a powerful voice in support of pragmatic policies to meet today’s unprecedented energy needs. AXPC congratulates Alan on his appointment and looks forward to working with him to advance American energy leadership and lower energy costs for every American,” said Anne Bradbury, CEO, AXPC.
“Alan Armstrong brings decades of hands-on leadership across America’s energy sector and a deep understanding of how energy systems power our economy, strengthen national security, and support everyday life. Energy policy decisions shape affordability, reliability, and global competitiveness, making that kind of practical expertise essential. In an environment where complex energy systems are often oversimplified, policymakers need real-world insight into how energy is produced, transported, and delivered. Alan Armstrong would offer an invaluable perspective to Congress. Armstrong is well-positioned to bring forward practical solutions for permitting reform and can play a key role in getting legislation across the finish line. We look forward to working with him as the next Senator of the great State of Oklahoma,” said Erik Milito, President, National Ocean Industries Association.
“Alan Armstrong is a natural diplomat skilled at bringing a wide range of interests together to solve hard problems. His quiet humility belies a fierce leadership style. And Alan is, in fact, fiercely determined to deliver real progress—especially in building the next generation of U.S. energy infrastructure that underpins industrial growth and manufacturing strength. At a time when geopolitics and economic competitiveness are tightly linked, he understands what it takes to position the United States for long-term resilience. He leads with purpose, pragmatism, and an unwavering focus on results,” said Tisha Schuller, CEO, Adamantine Energy.
“Alan Armstrong has dedicated his career to unleashing American energy. He has a deep understanding of the challenges American consumers face to affordably and reliably power their daily lives. He also understands American energy is a strategic asset that provides us energy security and supports our allies. Williams is a member of the Alliance, and we appreciate their leadership. We congratulate Mr. Armstrong on his appointment to the U.S. Senate and wish him early success,” said Melissa Simpson, President, Western Energy Alliance.
“Hard to think of a better person to represent Oklahoma in the U.S. Senate than Alan Armstrong. He will bring intelligence, character, work ethic, and needed balance,” said Scott Tinker, Chairman, Switch Energy Alliance.
“Alan has deep expertise in energy — and the infrastructure needed to deliver it. Oklahoma and America will benefit from his leadership,” said Mike Sommers, President and CEO, API.
“We applaud Governor Stitt’s selection of Alan Armstrong as Oklahoma’s next United States Senator. As the visionary CEO of Williams Companies, Alan helped launch Natural Allies to elevate understanding among policymakers and the media of the critical role American natural gas plays in reducing emissions, and ensuring our energy system remains secure, reliable and affordable for generations to come. An engineer by training and a proven businessman leading one of America’s largest companies, Alan brings a pragmatic, solutions-oriented approach at a time when our country needs it most. His ability to bring people together will strengthen the Senate and help advance durable, commonsense energy policies for the nation,” said Susan Waller, Executive Director, Natural Allies for a Clean Energy Future.
"Alan's contributions to EIC over the years have been meaningful, and his deep understanding of energy infrastructure will serve him well in the Senate. We look forward to working with Senator Armstrong on the policies that are critical to our industry and to America's energy future,” said Lori Ziebart, President and CEO, Energy Infrastructure Council.
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