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Stephen Michael Largent (born September 28, 1954) is an American former professional football wide receiver and politician who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 14 seasons with the Seattle Seahawks. A member of the Republican Party, he served in the U.S. House of Representatives for Oklahoma's 1st congressional district from 1994 to 2002. He was also the Republican nominee in the 2002 Oklahoma gubernatorial election. Largent is regarded as one of the greatest wide receivers of all time.[1][2][3][4]

Key Information

Largent played college football at Tulsa University, where he studied biology, and began his NFL career with the expansion Seahawks in 1976. He was selected to seven Pro Bowls and one first-team All-Pro and twice led the league in receiving yards. At the time of his retirement, he held all major NFL receiving records. Largent was inducted to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1995.

Following his playing career, Largent was elected to the U.S. House of Representatives in 1994 and served four terms, winning over 60% of the vote in each election. He resigned from his seat in 2002 to run for governor of Oklahoma, which he narrowly lost to Democratic state senator Brad Henry.

Football career

[edit]
Banners of Largent and the 12th Man hang over Lumen Field.

In 1974 at the University of Tulsa, Largent had 884 yards receiving and 14 touchdown catches. In 1975, he had 51 catches for 1,000 yards and 14 touchdowns.

Despite an All-American career at Tulsa, Largent was not selected until the fourth round of the 1976 NFL draft by the Houston Oilers with the 117th pick.[5] After four preseason games, he was slated to be cut. According to Largent, Bum Phillips called him into his office and told Largent he had all the receivers they needed, and that Houston would be releasing him. Largent feared his career was over before it began.[6]

However, his college offensive coordinator, Jerry Rhome, was now the quarterbacks and receivers coach of the expansion Seattle Seahawks.[7] Rhome convinced head coach Jack Patera to trade a 1977 eighth-round draft pick for Largent.[7] His first practice with the team went horribly, as he was suffering from nine days of sleep deprivation while financially struggling to care for his mother and three younger brothers after their mother left her alcoholic and violent second husband.[8] Despite this unpromising start, he made the roster of the expansion team's first season.

Largent spent his entire 14-year career with the Seahawks. While not particularly fast, he was extremely sure-handed and able to get open due to his precise route-running. Between 1976 and 1981, he and quarterback Jim Zorn—a fellow rookie in 1976—had more completions and yardage than any other pair in the league.[9][better source needed] He became the first Seahawk selected to the Pro Bowl, in 1978, and was selected six more times during his career. In 1979 he led the league in receiving yards with 1,237, and six years later did it again with 1,287 in 1985.[10][11] His 1985 receiving yardage was a Seahawks franchise record that stood for 35 years until broken by DK Metcalf in 2020.[12]

In 1987, Largent returned to play in a game against the Detroit Lions just before the end of the National Football League Players Association strike. Facing replacement players, he amassed 15 catches for 261 yards and three touchdowns.[13] With the retirement of Charlie Joiner the previous year, Largent became the NFL's active leader in career receiving yards, retaining that lead until his retirement in 1989. He broke Joiner's all-time record for receiving yards (12,146) in week 3 of 1988.

In the same season, he was knocked unconscious and suffered a concussion and two cracked teeth when he was hit in the head with a forearm by Mike Harden of the Denver Broncos; Harden was fined $5000 by the league.[14] Fourteen weeks later, in a rematch, Harden intercepted Dave Krieg's pass in the end zone, but Largent raced over and inflicted a blindside hit that caused Harden to fall to the ground and fumble the ball, which Largent then recovered; the play was negated by a defensive penalty, but Largent had gotten his revenge.[14]

In 1989, Largent became the first Seahawks player to win the Steve Largent Award for his spirit, dedication, and integrity.[15]

During his playing career, Largent was given the nickname "Yoda" for his ability to catch anything thrown at him.[16] He attributed this ability to a skeet shooting buddy, a sport that focuses only on the edge of the skeet, as he only focused on the tip of the ball to track and catch balls, in the era where receivers and defensive backs did not wear gloves. This also allowed him to quickly adjust from catching balls thrown by left-handed Jim Zorn to right-handed Dave Krieg.

When Largent retired, he held all major NFL receiving records, including most receptions in a career (819), most receiving yards in a career (13,089), and most touchdown receptions (100). He also had a then-record streak of 177 consecutive regular-season games with a reception. He also holds the distinction as the first receiver in NFL history to grab 100 touchdown receptions in his career; his record stood until 1992 when it was broken by Jerry Rice. Largent was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1995, his first year of eligibility. In 1999, he was ranked number 46 on The Sporting News list of the 100 Greatest Football Players, the only Seahawk to make the list. His #80 was retired in 1992; Largent is the first Seahawk player to be so honored. During Jerry Rice's stint with the Seahawks in 2004, Largent's #80 was temporarily "unretired" after a conversation between Rice (who idolized Largent growing up) and Largent that was reportedly initiated by then Seahawks president Bob Whitsitt.[17] Largent remains the most prolific receiver in team history. On October 26, 2008, Largent's University of Tulsa #83 was also retired.[18]

NFL career statistics

[edit]
Legend
Led the league
Bold Career high
Year Team GP GS Receiving
Rec Yds Avg Lng TD
1976 SEA 14 13 54 705 13.1 45 4
1977 SEA 14 14 33 643 19.5 74 10
1978 SEA 16 16 71 1,168 16.5 57 8
1979 SEA 15 15 66 1,237 18.7 55 9
1980 SEA 16 16 66 1,064 16.1 67 6
1981 SEA 16 16 75 1,224 16.3 57 9
1982 SEA 8 8 34 493 14.5 45 3
1983 SEA 15 14 72 1,074 14.9 46 11
1984 SEA 16 16 74 1,164 15.7 65 12
1985 SEA 16 16 79 1,287 16.3 43 6
1986 SEA 16 16 70 1,070 15.3 38 9
1987 SEA 13 13 58 912 15.7 55 8
1988 SEA 15 15 39 645 16.5 46 2
1989 SEA 10 9 28 403 14.4 33 3
Career 200 197 819 13,089 16.0 74 100

Political career

[edit]

Tenure in Congress

[edit]

In 1994, Oklahoma's 1st District Congressman Jim Inhofe resigned to run in a special election to succeed Senator David Boren. Largent won the election to succeed Inhofe in Congress; pursuant to an Oklahoma statute, Governor David Walters designated the special election in which Largent was elected to serve the remainder of Inhofe's term in the 103rd Congress before beginning his term in the 104th Congress.[19][20]

Largent took office on November 29, 1994, and was reelected to the three succeeding Congresses, never winning less than 60 percent of the vote in the heavily Republican Tulsa-based district.[21][22][23]

Like many in the Republican freshman class elected in 1994, when the Republicans took control of the House for the first time in 40 years, Largent's voting record was solidly conservative. Largent was one of the "true believers" in that freshman class, devoting most of his time to issues important to conservative Christians.

One of his first bills was a "parental rights" bill that died in committee after it attracted opposition even from other Christian conservatives. Another of his bills would have abolished the federal tax code at the end of 2001. He opposed ending the 1995 federal government shutdown and played a role in the failed attempt to oust Newt Gingrich as Speaker. Largent introduced a bill that would ban adoptions by gay and lesbian parents in Washington, D. C. Before taking office, in 1993, Largent wrote a letter in which he said "many homosexual practices are immoral and downright repugnant".[24]

He was accused of being anti-Catholic due to his line of questioning of a House of Representatives chaplain in 2000, though he denied this.[25]

After the Republicans lost five seats in the 1998 midterm elections, Largent tried to take advantage of discontent with Majority Leader Dick Armey by challenging Armey for the post. Although Armey was not popular in the Republican caucus, Largent was thought to be far too conservative for the liking of some moderate Republicans, and Armey won on the third ballot.[26] However, when Bob Livingston of Louisiana stood down as Speaker-elect, Armey was still too wounded to make a bid for the job.

Run for governor

[edit]

Largent decided to run for governor of Oklahoma in 2002. He easily won the Republican nomination and resigned his House seat on February 15 to devote his energy to the race. Initially seen as an overwhelming favorite against Democratic state senator Brad Henry, Largent lost by just under 7,000 votes.[27]

Largent's loss has been attributed by analysts to factors that included:

  • The presence of a well-funded independent (Gary Richardson, a former Republican) on the general election ballot;[28]
  • Henry's support of cockfighting, garnering a last minute endorsement by rural cockfighting interests that turned out in large numbers in the election in which the legality of cockfighting was on the ballot;[28][29][30]
  • Largent used a vulgarity, "bullshit," in response to an Oklahoma City television reporter who repeatedly asked where he was at the time of the September 11, 2001 attacks. Largent had been on a hunting trip and did not know about the attacks until then.[29][31]

Post-political career

[edit]

Largent became president and CEO of CTIA-The Wireless Association in November 2003 and served until May 2014. CTIA is an international nonprofit membership organization founded in 1984, representing all sectors of wireless communications: cellular, personal communication services, and enhanced specialized mobile radio.[32][33]

Personal life

[edit]

In 1990, Largent received the Golden Plate Award of the American Academy of Achievement.[34]

People magazine named Largent to its 1996 list of "Most Beautiful People".[35]

Largent has a son Kramer James (b. November 11, 1985) with spina bifida. He and his wife, Terry, also have three older children, sons Kyle and Kelly and daughter Casie.[36]

Electoral history

[edit]
Oklahoma's 1st congressional district: Results 1994–2000[37]
Year Republican Votes Pct Democratic Votes Pct 3rd party Party Votes Pct
1994 Steve Largent 107,085 63% Stuart Price 63,753 37%
1996 Steve Largent 143,415 68% Randolph John Amen 57,996 28% Karla Condray Independent 8,996 4%
1998 Steve Largent 91,031 62% Howard Plowman 56,309 38%
2000 Steve Largent 138,528 69% Dan Lowe 58,493 29% Michael A. Clem Libertarian 2,984 1%
Summary of the 2002 Oklahoma gubernatorial election results
Candidates Party Votes %
  Brad Henry Democratic Party 448,143 43.27%
  Steve Largent Republican Party 441,277 42.61%
  Gary Richardson Independent 146,200 14.12%
Total 1,035,620 100.0%
Source: 2002 Election Results

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Steve Largent

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from Grokipedia
Stephen Michael Largent (born September 28, 1954) is an American former professional football wide receiver and politician who represented Oklahoma's 1st congressional district as a Republican in the United States House of Representatives from 1994 to 2003. Born in Tulsa, Oklahoma, Largent played college football at the University of Tulsa, where he set school records for receptions and receiving yards, before being selected in the fourth round of the 1976 NFL Draft by the Houston Oilers and promptly traded to the Seattle Seahawks in exchange for draft picks. Largent spent his entire 14-year NFL career with the Seahawks from 1976 to 1989, retiring with then-NFL records of 819 receptions, 13,089 receiving yards, and 100 receiving touchdowns, along with seven selections and a reputation for precise route-running and reliable hands despite modest physical attributes. Inducted into the in 1995 as the first player in Seahawks franchise history to receive the honor, Largent's transition to included a successful congressional campaign in 1994, during which he emphasized , telecommunications deregulation, and traditional values, maintaining a near-perfect attendance and voting record over nearly a decade in office.

Early Life and Education

Childhood and Family Background

Stephen Michael Largent was born on September 28, 1954, in , to parents Jim Largent and Sue Stewart Largent. His early childhood was marked by family instability, as his parents separated when he was about six years old, with his father deserting the family. Largent's mother became the primary source of support and stability in his life, working to provide for her children amid financial hardships. She remarried when Largent was nine, but the new family dynamic introduced further challenges, as his struggled with and exhibited abusive behavior toward the family. These experiences shaped a resilient upbringing in a modest household, where Largent developed an early emphasis on discipline and perseverance influenced by his mother's determination.

High School and College Football

Largent attended Putnam City High School in Warr Acres, , graduating in 1972, where he focused intensely on athletics including football as a . During his high school years, he dedicated significant time to sports, which he later described as his primary focus over academics. In October 2024, Putnam City retired his No. 83 football jersey, marking the first such honor in school history for any sport. After high school, Largent enrolled at the , playing for the Golden Hurricane from 1972 to 1975 and majoring in . Over his college career, he recorded 136 receptions for 2,385 yards and 32 , a total that remains tied for the Tulsa program record for touchdown catches. Largent led the nation in touchdown receptions in both 1974 and 1975, earning All-Missouri Valley Conference recognition and accumulating 103 receptions across his final two seasons. In his senior year of 1975, he posted 51 catches for 1,000 yards, securing second-team honors. He graduated with a in in 1976.

Professional Football Career

NFL Draft and Transition to Seahawks

Steve Largent was selected by the in the fourth round, 117th overall, of the . After participating in four preseason games with the Oilers, he was traded to the expansion later that summer in exchange for an eighth-round pick in the . The trade occurred as the Oilers sought to trim their roster to meet league requirements ahead of the regular season. Upon arriving in Seattle, Largent secured a spot on the Seahawks' inaugural roster despite initial skepticism regarding his 5-foot-11-inch frame and perceived lack of elite speed. In his rookie season of 1976, he recorded 54 receptions for 705 yards and six touchdowns, performance that ranked third in the NFC for receptions and established him as a foundational player for the franchise. This early success marked a seamless transition, as Largent adapted to the Seahawks' offensive system under head coach and quarterback , contributing to the team's development from expansion squad to competitive contender by 1977.

Peak Performance and Achievements

Largent reached the peak of his performance in the , consistently ranking among the 's top receivers with precise route-running and reliable hands. Between 1978 and 1987, he earned seven selections, highlighting his sustained excellence. He received recognition five times, including First-Team honors in 1985 and Second-Team nods in 1978, 1979, 1984, and 1987. In 1979, Largent led the in receiving yards with 1,237 on 66 receptions and nine touchdowns, finishing sixth in AP MVP voting. His 1985 season marked a career high, amassing 1,287 yards on 79 catches, which set a single-season record that stood for 35 years. That year, he also earned his lone First-Team selection. In 1984, he topped the league with 12 receiving touchdowns, demonstrating his red-zone prowess. Largent's consistency was evident in six seasons with 70 or more receptions and ten with at least 50, underscoring his role as a primary target despite playing on expansion franchises. By retirement in 1989, he held records for career receptions (819), receiving yards (13,089), and receiving touchdowns (100), along with the mark for consecutive games with a reception (177). These achievements cemented his status as the Seahawks' inaugural superstar and a benchmark for durability.

Retirement and Hall of Fame Induction

Steve Largent retired from the after the 1989 season, concluding a 14-year career exclusively with the . His final game took place on December 23, 1989, a 24-17 loss to the in which he recorded three receptions for 39 yards. Upon retirement at age 35, Largent held the records for receptions (819), receiving yards (13,089), and receptions (100), accomplishments achieved without the benefit of modern passing volumes or athletic advantages common in later eras. The Seahawks honored his loyalty and production by retiring his number 80 jersey in 1992, the first such in franchise history, though Largent later permitted to wear it during Rice's 2004 stint with . Largent's enshrinement in the followed in 1995, with election announced on January 28 and formal induction on July 29 in . He became the first Seahawks player inducted, recognized for his precision route-running, sure hands, and role in establishing the expansion franchise's respectability despite lacking elite speed or size.

NFL Career Statistics and Records

Receiving and Scoring Statistics

Steve Largent recorded 819 receptions for 13,089 yards and 100 receiving during his 14-season career with the from to 1989. These figures yielded an average of 16.0 yards per catch, with a longest reception of 74 yards. His receiving formed the core of his scoring output, supplemented by one rushing for a total of 101 career and 606 points scored. Upon retirement following the 1989 season, Largent held NFL records for career receptions (819), receiving yards (13,089), receiving touchdowns (100), consecutive games with a reception (177), and 100-yard receiving games (47). He remains the Seahawks' all-time leader in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns. Largent's single-season peaks included 79 receptions and 1,287 yards in , the latter leading the that year, and 12 receiving touchdowns in 1984. He achieved double-digit receiving touchdowns in four seasons: 10 in , 10 in 1981, 11 in 1983, and 12 in 1984.
Career Receiving StatisticsValue
Receptions819
Receiving Yards13,089
Yards per Reception16.0
Longest Reception74
Receiving Touchdowns100

Franchise and League Milestones

Largent established numerous franchise records with the , including career receptions (819), receiving yards (13,089), and receiving touchdowns (100), which stood as team benchmarks upon his retirement in 1989. His 1985 single-season receiving yards total of 1,287 set a Seahawks record that endured for 35 years until surpassed by in 2020. Additionally, Largent's 100 career receiving touchdowns remain a franchise milestone, underscoring his scoring prowess over 14 seasons with the team. On the league level, Largent retired holding the records for career receptions (819), receiving yards (13,089), and receiving (100), becoming the first player to reach 100 receptions. He achieved the all-time receptions milestone on December 27, 1987, and surpassed the career receiving yards record in 1988 during a game against the . Largent led the in receiving yards twice, with 1,237 in 1979 and 1,287 in 1985, and topped the AFC in receptions with 71 in 1978. These accomplishments highlight his consistency, as he finished in the top 10 league-wide for receiving yards in seven seasons.

Entry into Politics

Motivations and Initial Campaigns

Following his retirement from the in 1989, Largent relocated to , with his family, initially focusing on business ventures and community involvement rather than . Despite publicly stating upon retirement that he would avoid politics, his , Largent, persistently encouraged him over five years to leverage his fame as a Hall of Fame for , emphasizing his platform to advocate for , youth causes, and conservative principles rooted in his Christian faith. Largent, who had no prior political experience—not even —prayed about the suggestion and ultimately agreed, viewing it as an opportunity to promote personal accountability, lower taxes, reduced regulation, and individual freedoms aligned with his beliefs. Additional influence came from conservative religious leader , reinforcing Largent's commitment to applying his sense of purpose from football to governance. Largent's initial campaign targeted in 1994, after incumbent Republican James Inhofe resigned to pursue a successful U.S. bid, creating a vacancy. Announced as an outsider candidate lacking traditional political credentials, Largent secured the Republican nomination and faced Democrat in the general election on November 8, 1994. Campaigning on , pro-family stances, and his record of discipline and achievement, he won with 62.68% of the vote to Price's 37.32%. Largent was sworn into office on November 29, 1994, marking his entry as one of few former players to transition directly to . This victory reflected the 1994 Republican "" wave, propelling conservative challengers amid voter dissatisfaction with Democratic control.

1994 Congressional Election

In 1994, Steve Largent, a Pro Football Hall of Famer and former who had retired from the in 1989 and relocated to , entered politics by seeking the Republican nomination for Oklahoma's 1st Congressional District. The seat became open after incumbent Republican vacated it to run for the U.S. Senate. Largent, lacking prior elected office experience, positioned himself as a political outsider emphasizing , , and , drawing on his celebrity status from a 14-year career that included nine selections. Largent secured the Republican primary on August 23, 1994, defeating challengers including Bill Bolin and Royce McElveen, though specific vote tallies for the primary remain sparsely documented in official records. In the general election on November 8, 1994, he faced Democrat , a Tulsa businessman and political newcomer. The contest occurred amid the national Republican "" wave led by , which capitalized on voter dissatisfaction with Democratic control of Congress and President Bill Clinton's agenda, resulting in GOP gains of 54 House seats nationwide. Largent's campaign leveraged television ads highlighting his athletic discipline and opposition to tax increases, while portraying Price as aligned with Washington insiders. Largent won decisively with 107,085 votes (62.7 percent) to Price's 63,753 votes (37.3 percent), a margin exceeding 43,000 votes in the Tulsa-based . The victory reflected strong Republican turnout in a that had leaned conservative but featured competitive races; Largent's and the broader anti-incumbent sentiment propelled his bid against a field initially favoring more established politicians. He was sworn into the 104th on November 29, 1994, by Speaker-designate Gingrich. This election marked Largent's transition from sports icon to congressman, setting the stage for his focus on deregulation and pro-family legislation.

Congressional Tenure

Key Committee Roles and Legislation

Upon his appointment to the in November 1994, Steve Largent was assigned to the Committee on Commerce, which handled issues related to , , , and . He served on this committee throughout his tenure from the 104th to the 107th Congresses. Largent held the position of vice chairman of the Subcommittee on Energy and Air Quality, where he addressed matters concerning national , fossil fuels, and environmental regulations. Additionally, he was a member of the Subcommittee on , , and , focusing on communications , spectrum allocation, and trade policies affecting the and telecom industries; and the Subcommittee on Oversight and Investigations, which examined and potential abuses within committee jurisdictions. His work on the telecommunications subcommittee positioned him to influence early debates on expansion and deregulation. In terms of legislation, Largent cosponsored the Defense of Marriage Act (H.R. 3396) in 1996, which defined marriage for federal law purposes as the union of one man and one woman and permitted states to refuse recognition of same-sex marriages from other states; the bill passed both chambers of Congress and was signed into law by President on September 21, 1996. He also introduced H.R. 4199, the Date Certain Tax Code Replacement Act, in the 106th Congress (2000), aiming to terminate the of 1986 by a specified date to facilitate comprehensive , though it did not advance beyond introduction. Largent sponsored the Parental Rights and Responsibilities Act of 1995, seeking to establish parental authority against government interference in child-rearing decisions, but the measure did not pass. His legislative efforts emphasized conservative priorities such as family protections, tax simplification, and limited government intervention, aligning with his voting record of opposing expansions in federal spending and regulatory authority.

Conservative Principles and Party Conflicts

Largent adhered to core conservative tenets during his congressional tenure, emphasizing social issues rooted in his evangelical Christian faith. He opposed , consistently voting against federal funding for it and supporting restrictions on the procedure. He viewed as a and resisted legislation extending equal rights protections to homosexuals, including opposition to the . Largent advocated for faith-based initiatives to address like and , arguing they aligned with principles of personal responsibility over government dependency. On fiscal matters, Largent championed tax reductions, , and term limits as outlined in the 1994 , which he helped implement as a member of the freshman Republican class. He led efforts to sunset the federal tax code for simplification and fairness, reflecting his skepticism of expansive entitlements and . His voting record underscored this ; in 1997, he aligned with President Clinton's positions only 23 percent of the time, among the lowest rates for House Republicans. Largent prioritized these principles over partisan loyalty, stating he entered to advance ideological goals rather than strictly follow the Republican agenda. Conflicts arose when Largent perceived party leadership deviating from these commitments, particularly under Speaker . In his first term, he joined a small group of Republicans voting against Gingrich-backed measures, such as certain spending bills, which embarrassed the leadership and highlighted intra-party tensions over fiscal discipline. By November 1996, amid Gingrich's ethics probe, Largent—a initial supporter—publicly urged him to step aside temporarily to preserve Republican unity and focus on conservative priorities. In , he participated in efforts to challenge Gingrich's speakership, stepping forward as a potential replacement amid conservative frustrations with perceived moderation. These disputes intensified in , as Largent accused House leaders of abandoning the principles that secured GOP control in , including balanced budgets and . He considered running for speaker or after Gingrich's , positioning himself as a principled alternative less strident but more ideologically pure than the outgoing leader. Largent's stance reflected broader rifts between the 1994 revolutionaries and establishment figures, prioritizing ideological fidelity—such as rejecting compromises on spending—over party cohesion.

Notable Controversies and Public Stances

Largent, a devout Christian, consistently advocated for policies rooted in traditional and religious liberty during his congressional tenure. He emerged as a vocal proponent of pro-life measures, emphasizing the protection of unborn children and opposing federal funding for abortion-related activities. In one early legislative effort, he introduced a "parental " bill aimed at affirming parental authority over medical and educational decisions for children, though it failed in committee amid opposition from some fellow conservatives who viewed it as overly broad. A prominent controversy arose from Largent's repeated attempts to restrict adoptions in the District of Columbia to married couples related by blood or , measures critics interpreted as targeting same-sex adoptions. On August 6, 1998, the House approved his to the D.C. appropriations bill by a vote of 253-166, prohibiting adoptions by "individuals who are not related by blood or ," which Largent defended as promoting stable, traditional family structures without explicitly singling out any group. The following year, on July 29, 1999, a similar failed by a narrow 212-214 margin after heated debate, with opponents accusing Largent of "gay bashing" and advancing a discriminatory agenda, while he maintained the policy prioritized child welfare in intact marital homes. Largent's fiscal conservatism included opposition to expansive government programs and support for tax reductions, as highlighted in his January 19, 1999, Republican response to President Clinton's State of the Union address, where he proposed a 10 percent across-the-board tax cut for working Americans to stimulate economic growth. He also resisted campaign finance reforms like the Bipartisan Campaign Reform Act, voting against bans on soft money contributions, arguing they infringed on free speech and political expression. On criminal justice, Largent favored tougher sentencing, voting for increased prosecutions of juvenile offenders and against alternatives to incarceration, reflecting his emphasis on personal accountability. These positions aligned with his broader commitment to limited government, lower taxes, and deregulation, often framed through a lens of individual responsibility and faith-based principles.

Gubernatorial Campaign and Political Exit

2002 Oklahoma Gubernatorial Race

In early 2001, Steve Largent, then the U.S. Representative for , filed initial paperwork with the Oklahoma Ethics Commission to enter the 2002 gubernatorial race, succeeding term-limited Republican incumbent . Largent formally launched his campaign in July 2002, emphasizing conservative priorities such as , tax cuts, and during stops in cities including , Tulsa, Lawton, and . As a high-profile former NFL Hall of Famer and fiscal conservative known for challenging party leadership in , Largent positioned himself as an outsider capable of restoring principled governance amid perceptions of state and ethical concerns in politics. Largent secured the Republican nomination in the August 27, 2002, primary, decisively defeating Scott Ferrell and businessman Tom Coburn's cousin, Royce Hobbs, with a strong margin reflecting his and support among social and fiscal conservatives. He resigned his congressional seat earlier that year to focus on the campaign, avoiding any dual-office conflicts. In the November 5, 2002, , Largent faced Democratic state Senator and independent candidate Gary Richardson, a former Republican who ran on a platform criticizing both major parties. Despite entering as the favorite in the Republican-leaning state and leading polls by double digits in the campaign's final weeks, Largent narrowly lost to Henry by approximately 7,000 votes. Official results showed Henry receiving 448,143 votes (43.27%), Largent 441,277 (42.61%), and Richardson 146,319 (14.12%), with the outcome attributed to a late surge in Democratic turnout, Richardson's vote-splitting impact on Republicans, and Largent's perceived abrasiveness alienating moderate voters. Campaign debates highlighted differences on education funding, , and post-9/11, where Largent advocated aggressive tax reductions and while criticizing Henry's support for increased state spending. The defeat marked a rare Democratic gubernatorial win in since 1990 and ended Largent's political career.

Reasons for Retirement from Politics

Following his resignation from the U.S. in February to pursue the governorship, Steve Largent suffered a narrow defeat in the , , , garnering 441,277 votes (42.61%) to Democrat Brad Henry's 448,143 votes (43.27%), with independent Gary Richardson taking the remainder. This outcome, decided by fewer than 7,000 votes amid a three-way race, ended Largent's bid for statewide and effectively concluded his electoral political career, as he did not seek to reclaim his congressional seat or contest future races. The loss represented the culmination of Largent's political ascent, which had seen him win four terms in a reliably Republican district but falter in the higher-stakes gubernatorial contest despite his name recognition from stardom and conservative advocacy. With no immediate fallback to public office after vacating his House position—a calculated risk typical of ambitious statewide campaigns—Largent opted against further political involvement, later describing his post-2002 path as a deliberate pivot away from electoral pursuits. By November 2003, Largent had transitioned to the , assuming the role of president and CEO of CTIA-The Wireless Association, a trade group representing the wireless , where he leveraged his congressional experience on policy. This appointment, coming less than a year after the election, underscored a strategic retreat from the demands and uncertainties of public campaigning toward executive leadership in a policy-adjacent field, marking his full retirement from politics.

Post-Political Career

Leadership at CTIA-The Wireless Association

Following his unsuccessful 2002 gubernatorial campaign in , Steve Largent assumed the role of president and chief executive officer of CTIA-The Wireless Association, effective November 1, 2003, succeeding Thomas Wheeler after an exhaustive search process. CTIA, an international nonprofit representing the wireless telecommunications industry, focused under Largent's leadership on advancing policies that supported industry growth, including spectrum allocation, regulatory frameworks, and . His prior congressional experience on the Telecommunications Subcommittee equipped him to lobby effectively for carriers' interests in . Largent's tenure emphasized advocacy for expanded availability to meet surging demand for services. He testified before on the impending U.S. crisis, supporting legislation like the Radio Inventory Act (H.R. 3125) to catalog federal holdings and facilitate reallocation for commercial use. CTIA under Largent pushed for auctions, including in the 800 MHz band amid disputes with entities like , and endorsed the Obama administration's initiative to free up 500 MHz of to enhance access, particularly in underserved areas. He also addressed related issues such as the , growth, and privacy protections in handling. In congressional testimony, Largent advocated for balanced policies combining access with regulatory restraint and favorable tax measures to foster private investment and in infrastructure. His efforts contributed to CTIA's influence on , with optimism expressed for bipartisan passage of bills addressing inventory and reallocation priorities, such as the 1755-1780 MHz band. Additionally, Largent oversaw industry events like the annual CTIA show, which highlighted 25 years of mobile by 2010, and supported philanthropic arms such as the Wireless Foundation's programs leveraging for community benefits, including the VITA Achievement Awards. Largent announced his retirement from CTIA on October 25, 2013, declining to extend his contract and departing by mid-2014 after over a decade in the position, during which the association navigated rapid industry expansion and policy challenges. His leadership was credited with strengthening CTIA's role in shaping a regulatory environment conducive to advancement.

Speaking Engagements and Advocacy

Following his departure from CTIA in May 2014, Steve Largent has maintained an active schedule of speaking engagements, delivering keynote addresses on , perseverance, and the integration of in professional life. Drawing from his Hall of Fame career, congressional service, and executive roles, Largent emphasizes themes of overcoming adversity and ethical decision-making, often tailored for corporate, athletic, and faith-based audiences. His speaking fee typically ranges from $20,000 to $30,000 for U.S. events, reflecting demand for his unique perspective as a Pro Football Hall of Famer and former policymaker. Largent's presentations frequently incorporate Christian principles, highlighting how shaped his resilience during a 14-year tenure marked by 819 receptions and 13,089 yards despite being a fourth-round draft pick. Recent appearances include discussions on his Hall of Fame journey and political experiences, such as a September 2025 where he reflected on congressional challenges and bipartisan navigation. He has also contributed to commemorative events, hosting segments on team history and fan culture in September 2025. In advocacy, Largent remains a vocal proponent of strengthening family structures and enforcing child support obligations, motivated by his own childhood experience of paternal abandonment. He integrates these views into speeches, arguing for policies and cultural shifts that prioritize parental responsibility and family stability over government intervention. This stance aligns with his longstanding evangelical Christian convictions, which informed his congressional opposition to abortion and advocacy for religious liberty, though post-political efforts focus more on inspirational messaging than legislative pushes. Largent's advocacy underscores personal accountability, critiquing absentee parenting as a root cause of social issues without reliance on expansive state programs.

Personal Life and Legacy

Family and Religious Faith

Steve Largent married Terry Bullock on January 4, 1975, and the couple has resided primarily in Tulsa, Oklahoma. They have four children: a daughter, Casie Lee, and three sons, Kyle, Kelly, and Kramer. As of recent accounts, two of their children live in Tulsa, one in Dallas, and one in Washington, D.C. Largent's religious faith centers on evangelical , which he embraced during his college years at the after attending a revival service with football teammates, leading to his acceptance of Christ. He became actively involved with the (FCA) during this period and maintained that commitment throughout his career, viewing his professional purpose as representing Christ on the field. In 1982, amid a potential NFL players' strike, Largent joined other Seahawks teammates in declining participation based on their Christian convictions against such actions. During his congressional tenure, Largent organized informal groups of evangelical Christian Republicans to discuss faith's role in policymaking, emphasizing religious freedom and pro-life positions. He advocated expanding to address social issues like drug and alcohol dependency, reflecting his belief in Christianity's practical application to . Largent has continued sharing his publicly, including in speeches and interviews, underscoring as a guiding force in his athletic, political, and post-career endeavors.

Philanthropy and Community Involvement

Largent has engaged in charitable activities for over three decades, beginning during his career with the and continuing through his post-athletic endeavors in . His efforts have focused on youth development, health initiatives for children, and faith-based organizations, often leveraging his public profile to raise funds and awareness. In 2006, he was inducted into the Humanitarian Hall of Fame alongside and Steve Smith, recognized by the non-profit organization for sustained community service and . Key involvements include fundraising for and Children's Orthopedic Hospital, as well as support for United Cerebral Palsy and the , where he participated in events promoting child health and disability services. He has also been active with the , contributing to broad community welfare programs, and served on non-profit boards such as , which aligns with his Christian faith and emphasizes family and youth support. Largent's commitment extends to youth-oriented groups like and the , where he has spoken and mentored, drawing from his experiences as a professional athlete to inspire ethical and personal development. Additionally, he has engaged with the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, delivering motivational talks on perseverance to students in areas like . His service in post-Congress includes board roles with organizations like Code 3, further embedding his in local community building.

Recent Honors and Reflections

In recognition of the ' 50th season in 2025, Largent was honored as one of the franchise's top 50 players, underscoring his foundational role in establishing the team's identity and success. The Steve Largent Award, named in his honor and given annually by the Seahawks to players demonstrating exceptional spirit, dedication, and integrity, continues to perpetuate his legacy; notable recent recipients include , who won it for the third time in December 2024. Largent has shared reflections on his career in several 2024 and 2025 interviews, emphasizing the improbable nature of his rise from being waived by the in 1976 to becoming a Pro Football Hall of Famer with career records including 819 receptions for 13,089 yards. He attributes his achievements to relentless and faith, recounting how the trade to the expansion Seahawks provided an opportunity to thrive over 14 seasons, during which he earned seven selections and the 1985 NFL Man of the Year award for combining on-field excellence with off-field . On his political tenure, Largent has described serving as a U.S. Representative from Oklahoma's 1st district (1994–2003) as a unique extension of his ethos, noting he remains the only Pro Football Hall of Famer elected to ; he reflected on initial challenges, such as navigating partisan dynamics upon arrival, while advocating for and . In broader legacy discussions, Largent stresses that true impact lies beyond statistics—in setting standards of integrity and perseverance that inspire current players and youth through his involvement with organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs of America, where he is recognized as an alumnus for providing safe, character-building environments during his formative years.

Electoral History

YearElection TypePartyVotes ReceivedPercentageOpponent (Party)Votes ReceivedPercentage
1994GeneralRepublican110,05761.9%Mike W. Means (Democratic)67,81238.1%
1996GeneralRepublican143,41568.2%Randolph John Amen (Democratic)
Karla Condray (Independent)		57,996
8,996		27.6%
4.3%
1998GeneralRepublican91,03162.0%Howard Plowman (Democratic)56,30938.0%
2000GeneralRepublican138,52869.3%Dan Lowe (Democratic)
Michael A. Clem (Libertarian)		58,493
2,984		29.2%
1.5%
Largent did not face competitive Republican primaries in these elections, winning nomination with over 80 percent of the vote where contested.

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