Analyzing Fallin's Victory

Lt. Governor Mary Fallin's huge runoff victory over Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett for the Republican 5th District Congress nomination was built on two Fallin attributes Cornett could not match, or overcome. First, Fallin's 16 years as a GOP activist and bridge-builder, with the accompanying long-time contact with GOP stalwarts, including the all-important older group that always votes. Second, Fallin's repeated presence on a GOP ballot for years. Cornett won three elections (city council, mayor) on a non-partisan ballot, not the same as on a partisan ballot. Fallin went into the primary with a leg up on every other contender, including Corporation Commissioner Denise Bode, State Rep. Kevin Calvey, State Rep. Fred Morgan, Cornett and Dr. Johnny Roy; she's gone out of her way during her political career to befriend everyone she meets and has a knack of remembering names no matter how much time passes between encounters. Over time, that kind of personal touch translates to support at the polls and Fallin's impressive victory proves the point. - Election Night photo courtesy Eyewitness News 5.

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