Oklahoma elections: State senate candidate withdraws from race

Donnelly was running against Republican incumbent Sen. Cliff Branan, of Nichols Hills, in the November general election for the District 40 seat.

"The rigors of running a competitive campaign against a strong incumbent took their toll on her and her family," said Sarah Taylor, communications director for the Oklahoma State Senate Democratic political action committee. "We hope that her time on the campaign trial discussing issues of public safety, education, jobs and the economy have had some impact on both Sen. Branan and his constituents who will hold him accountable on these important issues."

Branan will now hold the seat, said Paul Ziriax, state election board secretary. Donnelly's name will not appear on the November ballot, he said.

Republicans retained five Senate seats because Republican incumbents were unopposed, challengers withdrew from the race or the candidacy of their opponents was successfully challenged.