Jones: Meacham Should Refuse Contributions

Oklahoma Republican Party Chairman Gary Jones (right) today issued this statement: Oklahoma law restricts Oklahoma Corporation Commissioners from accepting campaign contributions from those they regulate except during a short time frame before and after elections. The intention of the law is that commissioners will make their decisions based on what is in the best interest of the citizens of Oklahoma and not show favoritism towards those that give large campaign contributions.

Now it seems that Oklahoma State Treasurer Scott Meacham is speaking out against the proposed coal-powered electrical plant going so far as to appearing in T.V. ads. Has Meacham crossed the ethical line by using his position to influence the final decision?

The fact that there is a campaign fundraiser being held for the treasurer next week makes one wonder. A Meacham spokesman claims that the fundraiser is being held to cover "un-reimbursed campaign debt" throws up yet another red flag as Meacham’s latest campaign report shows the treasurer to have over $5,000.00 in his account and reflects no debt.

Oklahomans elect Corporation Commissioners to make the tough and many times complex decisions affecting Oklahoma rate payers as they make their regulator decisions. That is why the law restricts contributions from those they regulate.

Scott Meacham claims that he is speaking out because he feels passionate about the issue and campaign contributions and politics have nothing to do with his decision to do so. If Meacham feels it is proper to use his elected position to influence the corporation commissioner’s decision he should pledge to not accept campaign contributions from those who benefit financially from this decision.

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