Corporation Commission: Possible '08 Candidates Await Henry's Replacement For Bode

Capitol sources say some Republican politicians are preparing to run for the Corporation Commission seat being vacated by Republican Denise Bode, but the possible candidates are waiting to see what Democrat Henry names to replace her before they talk openly about their plans.

Bode has resigned effective May 31st to take charge of a new energy industry association in Washington. She's been a commissioner since she was appointed by then-Governor Frank Keating.

While there are 3-1/2 years remaining on Bode's term, the person Henry names to replace her will serve until the 2008 election.

Sources say two ambitious GOP legislators, House members Dennis Adkins and Rob Johnson, are talking to some about their possible candidacies.

Adkins, 43, is chairman of the House Energy and Technology Committee. The Tulsan has been in real estate and is term-limited in 2012.

Johnson, 33, is majority whip. He is an attorney and is term-limited in 2016. He served as a legislative expert for former Congressman Wes Watkins and for Congressman Tom Cole.

Meanwhile, speculation continues to swirl about those Henry might name to replace Bode. The resignation of former State Treasurer Robert Butkin as dean of the Tulsa University School of Law prompted rumors Butkin is in the running. But in resigning the top TU post, Butkin said he wanted to spend more time with his wife and three children. That was essentially the reason he gave for resigning as state treasurer; his family lived in Tulsa and he grew weary of the commute and absences from the family. It seems unlikely he now would take on an equally-demanding Oklahoma City job unless he plans to move to the city, and those who know him say that is unlikely.

The names most heard are those of Oklahoma County Commissioner Jim Roth and Oklahoma City Councilman Pete White. Roth has let his interest in the post be known and has met with Republican Commissioner Bob Anthony. He reportedly has the support of Capitol lobbyist Pat Hall and others. White, a former Democratic Party chairman, also has support from numerous legislators and, it is said, from many in the energy industry.

Henry has given no indication yet of who he will name; he has said he hopes to have an announcement before Bode's official resignation date the end of this month.

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