Wednesday, January 30, 2008

As Expected, Rob Johnson Joins Dana Murphy In Corporation Commission Race

As expected, State Rep. Rob Johnson (R-Kingfisher) today announced that he will run for the Oklahoma Corporation Commission.

He seeks the seat now held by Democrat Jim Roth, appointed by Governor Henry when Republican Denise Bode resigned last year.
He joins longtime GOP activist Dana Murphy of Edmond in seeking his party's nomination.

Johnson said he will use his experience and ideas to help build Oklahoma’s prosperity in its new century.

“So much needs to be done to ensure we make Oklahoma the best it can be not only today but also for our children and grandchildren” Johnson said, “As a member of the Legislature, I was able to do so by cutting taxes, improving education, and supporting pro-life policies. As a Commissioner, I will continue work to strengthen Oklahoma’s economy, make our state more business friendly, all while fairly representing all Oklahomans.”


A fifth generation Kingfisher County resident, Johnson graduated from Oklahoma State University and
the University of Oklahoma Law School. Johnson and his wife of ten years, Michelle, also a fifth
generation Oklahoman, have two daughters, Kensington and McKellyn.

Johnson was elected to the State House in 2004 and currently holds the leadership position of House
Majority Whip. Additionally, Johnson has worked as an aide for Congressman Wes Watkins and
Congressman Tom Cole. Johnson has also owned his own law practice, worked in the oil and gas
industry, and worked in the family business, Johnsons of Kingfisher.

“The decisions made at the Commission can make Oklahoma a more energy and business friendly state and that will encourage more people to invest in Oklahoma,” Johnson said. “Additionally, the
Commission process is often archaic and should be brought into the twenty-first century with technology updates to make it more efficient for taxpayers.”


Johnson said that one of the most important issues facing Oklahomans is the need to develop a longterm energy policy for the state. “We all felt the effects from the fallout of the Oil Bust in the 1980’s and our state is enjoying the fruits of our current boom. But now it’s important that we develop a strong long-term energy policy for Oklahoma to avoid the pitfalls of the past.”
Johnson's campaign manger is Keili Hicks.
Murphy said she represents the best choice for the Corporation Commission.
"Right now we need the best qualified people serving Oklahoma," says Murphy. "Oklahoma needs a person with proven experience and skills in the areas served by the Corporation Commission.
"I am an oil and gas attorney who served nearly six years as an administrative law judge at the Commission, spent 10 years in the field as a geologist, appeared before the Commission representing my clients, and gave testimony before the Commission as an expert witness.
"No other candidate has the experience I have when it comes to working at and with the Corporation Commission. Compare our records and experience; I am confident you'll find that I have unmatched qualifications.
"In this critical time for the energy industry and our state, we don't need to send someone to the Commission who needs significant on-the-job training. I have the education, the experience and the knowledge of the Commission and the issues to hit the ground running, working for Oklahomans from day one.
"I have spent my entire adult career preparing for this job. I have no aspirations of higher political office, no dreams of political glory. As a fifth generation Oklahoman, I want to use my talents and abilities to serve the state that has done so much for me and my family by serving as a Corporation Commissioner."

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