Henry Appoints Burrage As New Auditor

As expected, Governor Henry today named Antlers banker and certified public accountant Steve Burrage as the state's new auditor & inspector.

He replaces the disgraced Jeff McMahan, who resigned after being convicted of multiple felonies in federal court.

"Steve Burrage has impeccable credentials and a reputation above reproach," Henry said. "He is without question the best person to serve as auditor and restore public trust in that important position."

Burrage said, “I appreciate Gov. Henry’s confidence in me and look forward to serving the people of Oklahoma as their state auditor and inspector. My top priority is to restore public confidence in the auditor’s position and ensure that Oklahoma tax dollars are being used as efficiently and effectively as possible.”

Said Senate Republican leader Glenn Coffee: “I am very hopeful that Mr. Burrage will bring integrity and honesty to the office of State Auditor and Inspector. However, former Auditor McMahan’s conviction still serves as a reminder of the mistake Gov. Henry made by vetoing legislation to create a legislative Office of Accountability and Innovation that would help the Legislature weed out inefficiency and corruption in government. As a co-equal branch of government, the Legislature should be involved in ensuring that state government is efficient, accountable, and free from corruption. Senate Republicans will push for more reforms like the Office of Accountability and Innovation during the 2009 legislative session."

“I couldn’t be happier about the Governor’s choice to appoint Steve Burrage as our state’s new auditor and inspector,” said Senator Jeff Rabon, D-Hugo. “Steve is a dear friend with a tremendous record of leadership and public service. He’s the right man to restore public confidence in the office.”

Rep. R. C. Pruett, D-Antlers, said, “He brings decades of experience to the position, and will now be able to put his expertise to use as a leader for the state of Oklahoma. Steve Burrage has been an active public servant for many years and is impeccably qualified to manage the duties of the agency. He’ll do great things for the state and bring integrity back to the office.”

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