Governor Kevin Stitt announced that Ben Lepak will join his administration as general counsel.

"Ben has worked tirelessly in the public and private sectors to advance free market principles," Gov. Stitt said. "I’m excited to add his legal and policy expertise to my team as we continue to make Oklahoma a top 10 state for business."

Lepak currently serves as executive director of the State Chamber Research Foundation, where he leads efforts to develop free enterprise-oriented public policies aimed at improving Oklahoma’s economic competitiveness.

In his new role, Lepak will advise the Governor on legal matters and use his policy expertise to assist in advancing business-friendly policies for the state.

“It’s an honor to serve my state in this capacity,” Lepak said. “I’ve long admired the Governor’s business acumen and commitment to free market principles. I look forward to helping him advance his top 10 agenda.”

Lepak has experience practicing law in both the public and private sectors. He holds a finance degree from the University of Oklahoma and earned his law degree from the University of Notre Dame, where he served as articles editor for the Notre Dame Law Review. He and his wife, Sarah, have four children.

Governor Stitt also expressed his gratitude to outgoing general counsel Trevor Pemberton for his service.

"Trevor has been an incredible asset to the state, my administration, and Oklahomans over the last three years," Stitt said. "I’m appreciative of his commitment and service and wish him the best in his next chapter."

“Three years ago, I accepted this incredible opportunity out of obedience to the Lord’s call on my life, and I am laying it down all the same,” Pemberton said. “We are called to be strong and courageous, to not be frightened or dismayed; the Lord our God is with us wherever we go. Indeed, He has been. May the Lord continue to bless this great state and Governor Kevin Stitt.”

During his time as general counsel, Pemberton handled significant legal challenges, including navigating the landmark McGirt decision. Before joining the Stitt administration in 2021, Pemberton served as a judge on the Oklahoma Court of Civil Appeals, chief district judge of the Oklahoma County Juvenile Division, and district judge for Oklahoma County.