BLACKWELL WITHDRAWS FROM SPEAKER RACE

House Speaker Pro Tem Gus Blackwell, Goodwell Republican, late this afternoon withdrew as a candidate for speaker to replace Lance Cargill after revealing he's been late in paying his Texas County property taxes in each of the past 13 years.

The stunning development came just hours after House GOP leader Greg Piatt claimed Blackwell had sufficient GOP votes to be named speaker-designate, and after stories here and in the Tulsa World about Blackwell's vote on an issue tied to controversial Dallas businessman Gene Phillips.

But it apparently was an inquiry made of Blackwell by investigative reporter Nolan Clay of The Oklahoman that prompted the decision to withdraw his name from consideration. The exact nature of the inquiry is expected to be known within hours, but Blackwell said he decided to remove himself for consideration for the House's top job after learning Thursday that he had been late in paying his property taxes in Texas County for the past 13 years. "I was shocked and surprised," Blackwell said. "I have never been told that my taxes were late in any way shape or form. I'm not blaming anyone but myself."

It was the revelation that he had been late in paying personal income taxes and business property taxes that prompted Cargill to resign as speaker. Those stories broke in The Oklahoman and the Tulsa World.

Insiders say they expect Rep. Chris Benge of Tulsa to now emerge as the choice of those who had supported Blackwell. Several members who had supported Blackwell, however, tell TMRO tonight they are moving their support to Susan Winchester.

Developing....

Share |