Wesselhoft Questions Blackwell's Future Role

Republican Rep. Paul Wesselhoft (pictured) told KFOR-TV Thursday night that the next question GOP legislators face is, "Should Gus Blackwell remain our speaker pro tem? I think not."

Wesselhoft joined other, although less public, GOP House members in questioning whether Blackwell, Goodwell Republican, should retain his leadership post after it was revealed he was late paying his Texas County property taxes for 13 years in a row.

The Oklahoman: Morrissette Late Paying Taxes

The Oklahoman reports that Rep. Richard Morrissette, D-Oklahoma City, traveled Thursday to the Oklahoma County courthouse to personally pay his late 2007 property tax on a rental house.

Morrissette paid $518.46, including $7.66 in interest for being late.

"It was an oversight and it has been taken care of," Morrissette said. "The taxes have been paid. I'm even with the county."

Records show it was the fourth year in a row that Morrissette was late in paying property taxes on the rental house in northwest Oklahoma City. Previous payments have been anywhere from five months to nearly a year and a half late. The tardiness has cost him $271.01 in penalties and interest.

"I can assure you this: It won't happen again," he said.

The Oklahoman: Blackwell Repeatedly Late On Taxes

From www.newsok.com, by Nolan Clay, Randy Ellis and Michael McNutt ~ A leading candidate to become the next state House speaker dropped out of the race Thursday because he repeatedly paid his property taxes late.

"I'm not blaming anyone but myself," Rep. Gus Blackwell said at the Capitol.

Blackwell, R-Goodwell, dropped out just hours after The Oklahoman asked him for an explanation for his late taxes.

He said he mistakenly thought he had until March 31 to pay property taxes on his home and three rental properties in Goodwell. He said except for one or two years he had met that deadline, usually paying around February.

He said he contacted the Texas County treasurer Thursday and was shocked to find out he was wrong. "The county got every dime they were entitled to," he said. "I have never been told that my taxes were late in any way, shape or form."

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....

Developing...Speaker's Race Upheaval

There is word at the Capitol late today that there may be a new development in the race for speaker of the Oklahoma House.

Grocery Sales Tax Cut Idea Makes '100 Ideas' List

A proposal by Senator Jay Paul Gumm, D-Durant, to end the state’s grocery tax made the list of “100 Ideas” made by Oklahomans to improve the state.

Over the course of the past year, more than 3,500 ideas were submitted through a website and thousands more were collected at “Idea Raisers” held by communities across Oklahoma. The proposal to end the grocery tax was the “Number 25” idea.

The book, 100 Ideas—Innovation for the Second Century, was released Tuesday.

The publication of the book was the conclusion of a year-long, bipartisan project getting Oklahomans more involved in the policymaking process as the state enters its second century of statehood. In promoting repeal of the state grocery tax, the book states: “Oklahoma should eliminate the regressive grocery sales tax. Oklahoma is one of the few states in the nation that taxes groceries. Food is a basic necessity, and working families should not be taxed on food purchases at the grocery store.”

Gumm said he could not agree more. “Cleary Oklahomans have embraced the idea that ending the sales tax on groceries is an idea whose time has come,” he said.

“With a sluggish economy, there is no better time to move this proposal forward to put real money back into the pockets of working and middle class families as soon as possible. Not only will we directly help them, we give the Oklahoma economy an extra boost.”

AP: Piatt Says Blackwell Has Speaker-Designate Votes From More Than 30 House Republicans

The Oklahoma House's Republican floor leader says Speaker Pro Tem Gus Blackwell has the support of more than half of the House's GOP majority in the race for speaker.

Floor Leader Greg Piatt of Ardmore told The Associated Press Thursday that Blackwell has secured pledges from more than 30 House Republicans in the race to replace former GOP Speaker Lance Cargill.

Blackwell needs the support of at least 29 of the House's 57 Republican members to become the party's speaker designate. The full 101-member House will select a new speaker on Monday.

Piatt Donations An Issue In Speaker's Race?

Sources in the State House report today that campaign donations to House Majority Leader Greg Piatt (pictured) of Ardmore by those associated with controversial Dallas businessman Gene Phillips and his son, Bradford, are becoming an issue in the race for speaker.

Two GOP members of the House say that Piatt supports Rep. Gus Blackwell to replace Lance Cargill and they have taken note of today's report in the Tulsa World highlighting Blackwell's unusual move, last session, of using his leadership role to cast a vote on a pro-Phillips measure in a committee in which Blackwell technically is not even a member.

The measure sought by the Phillips interests was carried by Piatt, the House Majority Leader, the World reported last year: Phillips' son Bradford Phillips tried unsuccessfully last session to get an Oklahoma law changed that would have allowed the family's insurance companies to put up fewer assets when making real estate loans. State Insurance Commissioner Kim Holland strongly protested the change, which was approved in committee but did not make it into law. The amendment was carried by House Majority Leader Greg Piatt, R-Ardmore, who received a $5,000 contribution from Bradford Phillips in June, state Ethics Commission records show.

One member of the House says the donations to Piatt for his 2008 campaign by those connected to Phillips is at least $11,000. Ethics Commission records show the $5,000 donation from Bradford Phillips on June 6, 2007, plus donations of $5,000 from Enid attorney Stephen Jones, who represents Phillips' interests, on June 4, 2007; and $1,000 from lobbyist Bobby Stem, who lobbies for Phillips' interests, on May 31, 2007.

Following Insurance Commissioner Holland's protest against the Phillips measure, Republican Bill Case, with the support of those in the Phillips camp including Jones, tried to defeat Holland. He failed. He is now a lobbyist for Phillips in Stem's firm.

In addition, a mysterious committee based in Austin, Texas, tried to defeat Holland and spent almost half a million dollars in the unsuccessful effort.

The controversy over the Phillips family erupted again recently, when it was revealed that several GOP legislators, including then-Speaker Cargill and Blackwell, attended a fundraiser for Mike Huckabee at Gene Phillips' palatial home in Dallas. After the event was publicized and questions were asked, several legislators said they received, and returned, donations from Bradford Phillips. Some estimate the legislators recently returned at least $6,200 to Phillips.

Blackwell Tries To Explain Vote For Phillips Bill

House Speaker Pro Tem Gus Blackwell, one of four House Republicans who seek the position of speaker following Lance Cargill's resignation, faces questions about a controversial vote he cast in a committee meeting last session.

The vote came on a measure sought by the interests of Gene Phillips, controversial Dallas businessman. Even though Blackwell is not a member of the committee that approved the measure, he attended the committee meeting as a House leader and voted for it.

Some GOP members find that troubling and one said, "Frankly, I haven't heard any explanation from Gus that I buy."

The controversial vote is highlighted in a Tulsa World article today by Capitol Correspondent Mick Hinton. Here's the relevant part of Hinton's article:

(House Minority Leader Danny) Morgan also said Democrats were “obviously disappointed” that Blackwell has not addressed a trip he made in December to the home of a controversial fundraiser.

Blackwell was among a group of Republican lawmakers who were criticized for accompanying Cargill to a fundraiser at the home of Gene Phillips, a controversial Texas businessman.

The fundraiser was being held for presidential candidate Mike Huckabee, and the Republican lawmakers said they attended because it was a chance to see a candidate who might be elected president.

A lobbyist (for Phillips) leased a bus in December and took the Republican lawmakers to the fundraiser.

Phillips, whose family has several insurance companies held in trust, has been connected to former Oklahoma Democratic Insurance Commissioner Carroll Fisher, who is now in prison. Fisher allegedly accepted a $25,000 gift and office furnishings from Phillips.

Phillips’ son Bradford Phillips worked with the Republican House leaders last session to win passage in committee of amendments to a bill that aided insurance companies.

Blackwell exercised his right as speaker pro tem to come into the committee meeting and vote for the amendments.

The amendments were strongly opposed by state Insurance Commissioner Kim Holland. Because of news stories, House leaders decided not to hear the bill on the House floor last session.

Responding Wednesday to a question from Morgan about the fundraising trip, Blackwell said, “In hindsight, with all the publicity, no, I wouldn’t have gotten on the bus.”

Others seeking the speaker's post are Dale DeWitt, Susan Winchester and John Wright.

Some members of the House committee that approved the measure have confirmed that they received campaign donations from Bradford Phillips late last year and returned them.

Conservative Bloggers Illustrate GOP Dilemma

Two of Oklahoma's most active conservative bloggers, Mark Shannon and Ron Black, demonstrate today on their blogs the dilemma faced by most Republican voters this election year: They split, Shannon endorsing Mitt Romney, Black endorsing John McCain. Both indicated they'd prefer an alternative.

Shannon, host of his afternoon drive show on Oklahoma City radio station KTOK with a long-running blog that is widely read, wrote: I made up my mind on Wednesday night who to cast my vote for in the Presidential Primary next Tuesday. Actually, John McCain made my mind up for me. McCain may still win, and if he does, I'll vote for him in November, however, the jerky, arrogant, angry crap he spewed at Mitt Romney lost my vote in the primary. Romney may not be a "war hero," but he certainly has a lot more grace, style, and honestly, "class." than John McCain, and he's right on more of the issues than McCain. As for McCain, if he should win the nomination and he tries that crap against Hillary Clinton, he will doom his own campaign the first time he uses the behavior he exhibited against Romney on Wednesday night.

After reading Shannon's post, Black wrote his own: SHANSTER DECIDES TO VOTE FOR ROMNEY, I'M HOLDING MY NOSE AND VOTING FOR MCCAIN: Romney is WRONG, I mean REALLY WRONG on the 2nd Amendment and supports a ban on so-called assault weapons, just like Hillary and her mascot Bill did a few years ago. Romney has the business savvy and experience to do the right thing from a fiscal standpoint, but while that happens, he'd be signing bills on fingerprinting ammunition, registering handguns and banning scary black rifles. McCain, as far as I am concerned, is an arrogant waste of Republican votes but I like my 2nd Amendment far too much to vote for Romney. McCain's fight against free speech (a la McCain-Feingold) was a mistake and I think he's learning that fact. So, yes. I'm holding my nose and supporting McCain.

Shannon's blog can be found at http://www.markshannon.com/. Black's blog can be found at http://www.ronblackradio.com/.

Luttrell Wants Mortgage Escrow Account Payments

Legislation filed by state Rep. Ken Luttrell would ensure that Oklahomans with a mortgage receive interest from their escrow account.

"Currently, lenders are holding millions of dollars in escrow accounts and reaping significant interest earnings as a result," said Luttrell, D-Ponca City.

"It's only fair that the Oklahomans paying into those accounts received at least a share of the profit."

Lenders often place a portion of a borrower's mortgage payments into an escrow account, which is used to pay all taxes or insurance due on the property. The money accrues through the year until the tax or insurance payment is due. In the meantime, lenders can earn interest off the money in the escrow account.

House Bill 2594, by Luttrell, would require lenders to pay a portion of the interest earnings to the consumer whose money is funding the account. Under the bill, each lender holding funds in an escrow account would be required to pay the borrower dividends or interest at least once per quarter, calculated at a rate equal to at least 50 percent of the one-year Treasury Note rate or "rate of a comparable instrument."

The lender could not deduct any charge for service from the interest or dividend payment.

At least once a year, lenders would be required to provide mortgagors a financial statement showing the interest credited on the escrow account.

"Oklahomans work hard for their money. Large corporations or out-of-state lenders shouldn't get free use of that cash," Luttrell said. "The banks certainly don't lend their money interest-free to consumers."

Huckabee Due In State On Friday

Republican presidential candidate Mike Huckabee will campaign in Oklahoma City and Tulsa on Friday leading up to Tuesday’s primary.

His campaign stop follows that of former President Bill Clinton, who spent Wednesday stumping for his wife in Norman.

Huckabee, former Arkansas governor, will appear at a noon rally at Tulsa International Airport, after attending an 8:45 a.m. rally at Coach’s Restaurant in Bricktown in Oklahoma City.

Brady Campaign Doesn't Like Oklahoma

The Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence, one of the most off-the-wall gun-grabbing entities in the nation, doesn't like Oklahoma's adherence to the 2nd Amendment.

The group is out with ratings that place Oklahoma last in the nation based on its extremist gun control agenda.

"Officials in Oklahoma have done little to keep criminals and other dangerous people from easily obtaining guns," the group claims. It's ratings are based on its desire for an absolute ban on the personal ownership of firearms and on the concealed carry of firearms by licensed, law-abiding citizens.

Oklahoma earned just two points out of a total of 100 in its rating system, the group said.

The national state-by-state scores are available in complete category-by-category detail at www.bradycampaign.org.

Foshee Honored By South OKC Chamber

State Senate candidate and former Oklahoma City Councilman Jerry Foshee recently was recipient of the South Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce's "Ambassador of the Year Award" as a result of his work helping the South Oklahoma City Chamber of Commerce promote and develop South Oklahoma City.

Foshee's also been recognized with the "Bulldog Award" as well as the "Champion of South Oklahoma City Award."

The Foshee for Senate Campaign, a spokesman said, has added dozens of volunteers who are more than familiar with all of the candidates as well as the issues relevant to Senate District 45 and the Foshee campaign will be announcing key endorsements within the next 30 days.

The spokesman said, "Jerry continues to focus on issues of importance to the residents of Senate District 45 - infrastructure improvements, accountability for the Department of Human Services, preserving parks and dramatic reductions in government spending."

Foshee is one of three seeking the Republican nomination in the district. The others are political consultant Kyle Loveless and retired Army officer Steve Russell. The incumbent is term-limited Kathleen Wilcoxson.

Giuliani Pulls Out, Endorses John McCain

Rudy Giuliani formally dropped his presidential bid and endorsed John McCain Wednesday, setting up the Arizona senator with valuable support and big press heading into the GOP primary debate in California.

Giuliani pledged to campaign with McCain wherever he is needed, and touted his former rival as an “American hero” and “the most qualified candidate to be the next commander in chief of the United States.”

Giuliani spoke at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library in Simi Valley, Calif., where the Republican debate was being held just two hours later.

Danny Morgan Says Cargill Controversy Could Help Boost Democrats In Fall Legislative Elections

The Associated Press' Tim Talley Reports ~ The Oklahoma House's top Democrat said Wednesday circumstances surrounding the resignation of Republican Speaker Lance Cargill could give Democrats a boost in this fall's elections and possibly return them to majority status.

"I think we have a very good opportunity to move forward," House Democratic Leader Danny Morgan of Prague told reporters, editors and broadcasters at The Associated Press' annual legislative forum.

"If I'm not named speaker next week, I'll be named speaker next January," said Morgan, the only Democrat among five House members who are actively seeking the speaker's job.

The House's acting speaker, Speaker Pro Tem Gus Blackwell, R-Goodwell, described Cargill's resignation as speaker as "a brave, courageous, selfless act" and said he does not believe the political divisiveness it has caused within the GOP caucus will have any effect on the upcoming elections.

"We're a long way from November," said Blackwell, who is also seeking the speaker's job. "I do not think it will hurt us. "Politics is local. It gets back to the person running," he said.

Other Republicans seeking the speaker's job are Reps. John Wright of Broken Arrow, Susan Winchester of Chickasha and Dale DeWitt of Braman. The 101-member House plans to elect a new speaker shortly after the Legislature convenes on Feb. 4 to replace Cargill, who resigned on Monday following a series of embarrassing revelations.

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."

House Speaker Candidates Jockey As GOP Seeks Smooth Transition In Top Leadership Post

The race for speaker of the Oklahoma House may boil down to which of the candidates can make the most seamless and smooth transition, create confidence, and help ease concern about the resignation of Lance Cargill, Republican insiders believe.

An Analysis By Mike McCarville

As of this writing, it appears the two leaders for the speaker's post are Speaker Pro Tem Gus Blackwell of Goodwell and Susan Winchester of Chickasha. They are said by some to be the front-runners, ahead of Dale DeWitt of Braman and John Wright of Broken Arrow.

It now appears, one insider said, that there are two solid camps. "One group will push for Susan and one for Gus," the insider said. "Dale DeWitt may be a player as well but will likely support one of the other two. John Wright has made it known he is in the race but, nice guy though he is, he won't have significant support."

The insider added that, "The outsiders will want a substantial change of direction and the insiders will want the status quo, which includes putting Gus in the seat. Gus is a good guy, respected by many, but may be elected principally as the smooth transition figure."

One former House member predicts, "Gus will win." And he added, noting that Winchester was a previous candidate for speaker: "Susan is still extremely sour/bitter about losing last time and I fear if elected she would be very vindictive. Gus would be a much better speaker and will take care of rural western Oklahoma. Besides, I'm pretty confident he has the votes already lined up."

One respected Capitol observer said Winchester may have ground to make up with other GOP members after the result of her previous race for the seat: "Susan has a lot of making up to do due to her having disenfranchised herself from the caucus."

A House staffer privy to discussion among members said he believes the race is "really close" between Blackwell and Winchester, but he doesn't rule out DeWitt's strength. "You get into these things, you just never know," he said. "And we've still got days to go until the vote will be taken, so it can change." Another insider believes Blackwell will be the eventual choice, but notes that Winchester presents "a more polished appearance" than Blackwell, a factor also mentioned by another, who said Blackwell sometimes looks like "he can't find a suit to fit him."

They also note that Blackwell is from a rural area, the Panhandle, and Winchester is from a more urban area, Chickasha, and the perception might be that she has a better grip on some issues as a result.

A Winchester strength might be the perception that she would be a better Republican fundraiser than Blackwell. "Susan can (raise money)," one insider said. "I am not sure about Gus in that role."

Both, this insider believes, would avoid "serious trouble" and both would bring "respect and integrity" to the post.

Winchester served as speaker pro tem under former House Speaker Todd Hiett, the same position that Blackwell now holds. Winchester said she is seeking fellow Republicans' support "and I would ask the Democratic members as well to expedite the leadership transition so we may begin the session united and ready to do the people's business."

Rep. Danny Morgan, the minority leader of House Democrats, said Winchester is "the only candidate that we are aware of who has extended her hand across the aisle." Morgan, D-Prague, said, however, that DeWitt is "very respected" among Democrats. DeWitt, R-Braman, represents four rural counties.

"Don't be surprised if you see Gus as speaker and Susan, or maybe DeWitt, as pro tem with another election after session or in the fall," he added. "I think it is most likely we will see a compromise rather than a bloodshed event if cooler heads prevail."

A House member who said he is undecided about which candidate he'll support said he respects both Blackwell and Winchester and likes Winchester's "touch" on most issues.

"She's handled herself very well and is doggone smart." He said Blackwell has "some baggage" but has support the member believes is equal to, or better than, Winchester's support.

"Susan is smart, polished, a sharp business individual with investments and looks the part," one of the insiders said. "She would put the better face on the role. It may be having Gus in charge and Susan as the public speaker and business contact would work to both their strengths."

Winchester's receiving support from some outside the Legislature. Blogger Jean Warner writes on her Oklahoma Women's Network Blog, "Call your State Representative and tell him or her that Winchester would be a GREAT Speaker."

Mike McCarville has covered Oklahoma politics and government since he became State Capitol Correspondent for The Tulsa Tribune in 1966. Since, he has been a governor's press secretary, investigative reporter, television station news executive, radio station program director and talk show host, and political consultant. In 1980, he founded The McCarville Report and it is the nation's longest-running state political publication. In its online version, it has been called "The best political blog" by Dr. Keith Gaddie, pollster and pundit and "Oklahoma's venerable McCarville Report" by The Arkansas Times. McCarville is also a real estate investor and commentator for the National Rifle Association on NRANews.com and Sirius Satellite Radio.

Oklahoman: More Federal Indictments Expected

By The Oklahoman's Tony Thornton In Muskogee ~ More indictments are expected from the federal grand jury that has been investigating political corruption for two years, a prosecutor said today. That announcement came during a pre-trial motion hearing for Francis Stipe, whose criminal trial was scheduled to begin next Monday. Read more at www.newsok.com.

Surprise: Edwards Suspends Presidential Race

In a move that has caught most by surprise, Democrat John Edwards today suspended his presidential campaign.

And in a nuance not caught by many, he did not withdraw; he instead suspended his campaign, meaning he retains all the delegates he has won. That means he will go to the Democratic National Convention in Denver with some power should frontrunners Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama wind up in a deadlock.

Edwards, a former North Carolina senator and two-time White House candidate, had previously pledged to stay in the race through the convention despite suffering losses in every early voting state to Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama. Many believed he wanted to be a in position to be influential if the Democratic National Convention in Denver became deadlocked over the party nominee in a "brokered" convention. By suspending his campaign, he can be in that position.

Edwards had especially banked on a strong performance in his home state of South Carolina, where he won in the 2004 primary, to give his campaign a lift before Super Tuesday, Feb. 5, when 24 states hold primaries and caucuses for both parties. Even after he placed third there behind Clinton, he pledged to soldier on, putting campaign staff on the ground in select Feb. 5 states.

Wright Also Seeks House Speaker's Post

Rep. John Wright of Broken Arrow says he, too, will seek the post as speaker of the State House. He joins Reps. Susan Winchester of Chickasha and Gus Blackwell of Goodwell in the race. Rep. Dale DeWitt of Braman also is said to be in the race.

Wright said, "I have a little different philosophy. I don't see individual members having to to give a stamp of approval of the speaker's policies. A speaker should advance what is the consensus policy of the caucuses. Somebody has to be the cat herder," and he believes he can fill that role.

The winner will replace Lance Cargill of Harrah, who resigned as speaker earlier this week.

Barrington Wants No Tax On Federal Rebates

Senator Don Barrington wants to ensure that any federal tax rebates this year are exempt from state income taxes. “If the State of Oklahoma taxes these federal rebates, it will diminish the impact of the stimulus package on our state’s economy,” Barrington said. “It is imperative that the Legislature takes action this session to make sure Oklahomans don’t have to fork over part of their federal rebate to the state government.” Barrington, R-Lawton, plans to add the proposal as an amendment to SB 1149, his legislation to expand the state sales tax holiday to include school supplies.

Steve Russell Defends 'Surge,' Troops

Steve Russell, the retired Army officer and Iraq war veteran who is a candidate in State Senate District 45, has been making headlines across the country recently defending the troops and the surge.

"The latest attacks in newspapers and magazines about the failure of the surge and returning veterans as criminals are shameless," Russell said.

"They must be countered," added Russell, whose latest opinion piece on the war in Iraq appeared in the New York Daily News with a second piece published in over two dozen papers across the country.

He has also been invited to appear on the Montel Williams show in February and has done dozens of radio spots across the nation in the last week. "Everywhere you turn it seems that the media wants to assault our integrity and honor," said Russell, who is running for Senator Kathleen Wilcoxson’s open Senate seat. "With our own National Guard deployed, our state has an even greater stake in this debate. My sister’s son is there now with the 45th Brigade."

In his Senate campaign, Russell said, he's been meeting voters at the door, making calls and raising money. His campaign announced that it had reached the $30,000 dollar mark shortly after the fourth quarter of 2007.

After retiring from the Army and returning to Okahoma City, Russell founded and chairs "Vets for Victory" to put the soldiers’ voice into the national debate about the war.

Other Republicans seeking the Senate seat are Jerry Foshee and Kyle Loveless.

Bill Bennett: McCain Should Embrace Coburn

Conservative icon Bill Bennett said tonight on CNN's Florida primary election coverage that Senator John McCain needs to build his conservative credentials and one way he can do that is by embracing Senator Tom Coburn and touting Coburn as a possible vice presidential running mate.

Bennett's comments came during a four-way conversation following McCain's Florida win and speculation that Rudy Giuliani will withdraw and endorse McCain. One analyst said some conservatives are likely to react negatively to that since Giuliani "is no conservative." Bennett then offered his thoughts on the Coburn connection; he added that McCain should take Coburn on the campaign trail with him.

Coburn recently endorsed McCain, much to the surprise (and consternation) of some.

McCain Wins Florida, Romney Second

Senator John McCain won Florida's Republican primary, besting second-place finisher Mitt Romney by about five percent as votes continued to be counted.

Rudy Giuliani, who counted on Florida to salvage his campaign, finished a distant fourth behind Mike Huckabee. There are reports Giuliani might be considering his withdrawal from the race and some pundits say if he does, he likely will endorse McCain.

Hillary Clinton won among Democrats in a walk over Barack Obama, but the win may be meaningless as the Democratic National Committee has ruled Florida's convention delegates won't be seated because the state moved its primary up despite DNC rules against that.

Image courtesy Fox News.

Developing...Tight Race In Florida

Graphic courtesy Fox News.

Winchester Seeks Speaker's Seat

State Representative Susan Winchester (R-Chickasha) today said she is a candidate for Speaker to replace Rep. Lance Cargill, who resigned Monday.

"With only days remaining until the beginning of the 2008 legislative session, it is vital that we settle the leadership question soon," Winchester said. "I will ask the Republican caucus for their support, and I would ask the Democratic members as well to expedite the leadership transition so we may begin the session united and ready to do the people’s business."

Speaker Pro Tem Gus Blackwell announced earlier he, too, will seek the post.

Henry Orders Statewide Burn Ban

Citing high winds, dry conditions and a series of recent wildfires, Governor Henry today declared a statewide burn ban.

The governor’s office announced the decision Tuesday afternoon after reviewing weather data and discussing fire conditions with forestry officials in the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture.

Blackwell Seeks House Speaker's Post

Oklahoma House Speaker Pro Tempore Gus Blackwell announced today he will seek the position of Speaker of the Oklahoma House of Representatives.

Earlier, he had indicated he was uncertain if he would seek to succeed Lance Cargill.

The first item on the House agenda next Monday will be to elect a new speaker.

Blackwell (R-Goodwell), District 61's representative since 2001, has served as Speaker Pro Tempore, the second-highest ranked legislator in the House, for the past year. He was the first Panhandle lawmaker to hold the post since 1955.

Others said to be interested in the post are Susan Winchester, Dale DeWitt, Greg Piatt and Chris Benge.

Pro-Family Groups Honor Jim Inhofe

Senator Jim Inhofe today was recognized as a “True Blue” Member of Congress by the Family Research Council Action and Focus on the Family Action for unwavering commitment to the family.

“I am honored to receive this award from FRC Action and Focus on the Family Action,” Inhofe said. “These organizations provide invaluable service on behalf of pro-family and pro-life policies and deserve praise for their efforts. I pledge to continue fighting on behalf of American families to uphold the sanctity of human life."

The award honors Members of Congress who have exhibited extraordinary leadership and commitment to the defense of family, faith, and freedom, according to FRC Action’s new scorecard covering House and Senate votes during the 1st session of the 110th Congress. Recipients of the award voted consistently for pro-life and pro-family issues.

“The Members of the 110th Congress who received this award have been consistent, stalwart allies of American families,” said FRC Action President Tony Perkins. “These Members are to be commended for supporting public policy that values human life, protects our religious liberties, and upholds the institutions of marriage and the family. I applaud these Members for defending pro-family and pro-life policies that have been under attack this past year. Values voters should be encouraged by these Members who have shown a commitment to protecting and strengthening the family.”

Clintons Losing Liberal Support To Obama

From Fox News ~ Like lovers scorned, Bill Clinton’s longtime liberal supporters are walking out on him, slamming the door behind them and rebuking the 42nd president for his behavior leading up to last weekend’s South Carolina primary.

Clinton’s base seems to be eroding fast as liberal Democratic stalwarts join up with Barack Obama, whose message of change seems now to apply not only to the Bush Administration of the last seven years, but the eight-year Clinton Administration that preceded it.

Obama’s biggest “get” was Sen. Ted Kennedy, who abandoned his neutrality in the presidential race and endorsed Obama over Hillary Clinton on Monday. While Obama insists the Massachusetts senator’s endorsement was not a repudiation of anyone, it was clear that Kennedy - along with his niece Caroline Kennedy and son Rep. Patrick Kennedy — had reached beyond the Clintons to pass the mantle of the Democratic party’s liberal wing to Obama.

And while the Kennedys may open the floodgates, they were hardly the first liberals to abandon the Clintons for Obama. In recent weeks the Clintons have watched many of their supporters drift to the young senator from Illinois.

Former Senate Majority Leader Tom Daschle, Vermont Sen. Patrick Leahy and Massachusetts Sen. John Kerry, the Democrats’ 2004 presidential candidate, endorsed Obama recently. On Tuesday, Kansas Gov. Kathleen Sebelius climbed aboard, the morning after she delivered the Democrats’ rebuttal speech to President Bush’s State of the Union address.

Even novelist Toni Morrison, who once called Bill Clinton the “first black president,” has come out for Obama.

Liberal criticism of the Clintons has come from inside and outside the Beltway, from former supporters and colleagues. It ranges from the thinly veiled to the blatant. Robert Reich, former Clinton labor secretary, on his personal blog: “Bill Clinton’s ill-tempered and ill-founded attacks on Barack Obama are doing no credit to the former President, his legacy, or his wife’s campaign. Nor are they helping the Democratic party … Now, sadly, we’re witnessing a smear campaign against Obama that employs some of the worst aspects of the old politics.”

With Cargill Gone, Collins Petitions For Committee

Rep. Wallace Collins, following the resignation of Lance Cargill as House speaker, is requesting reconsideration of his earlier petition to serve on the House Public Health Committee.

Collins, Norman Democrat, contends that given his mental health experience and the fact that he represents the only mental health hospital in the state, he should be given the opportunity to serve and provide invaluable input on mental health legislation.

Collins said he earlier had asked Cargill for a seat on the committee but had been met with silence. House District 45, represented by Collins, is home to Griffin Memorial Hospital, the last mental health hospital in Oklahoma.

Collins said it is a long-standing tradition that the representative from House District 45, Democrat or Republican, sit on any committee dealing with mental health. However, he said, the tradition was not honored by Cargill.

KOSU Hires Cross, Plans More Capitol Coverage

Oklahoma City radio station KTOK reporter Michael Cross has been hired as its Capitol correspondent by Stillwater's KOSU.

Cross, who has doubled as a news anchor at KTOK, has been a regular panelist on the station's weekend "News Studio B" show hosted by News Director Jerry Bohnen.

A post on the KOSU website outlines its new Capitol coverage plans: Nearly 20 years ago, KOSU and Oklahoma State University made a commitment to provide in-depth coverage of the Oklahoma legislature. The station was one of the few broadcast media outlets to provide regular legislative coverage in 1990. Since then, radio and television stations have come and gone, but KOSU has remained, and through the years, that commitment has paid off for thousands of listeners who now depend on us for gavel-to-gavel state Capitol coverage. In 2008, KOSU plans to increase its commitment to government reporting. The KOSU Capitol Bureau will be expanded to provide year-round coverage of state government from right where it happens. The New KOSU Capitol Bureau launches in February from the fourth floor broadcast press room as members of the Oklahoma House and Senate return to take care of the people's business. As the 2008 session unfolds, KOSU will once again provide the most thorough broadcast coverage of the legislative session, from the opening bell to sine die. There will be plenty to follow - including the spending process in what is expected to be a tight budget year, as well as a host of proposed laws that could affect all of us. Even after the session ends, stay with the KOSU Capitol Bureau for in-depth election coverage as voters prepare to decide on a host of state and federal races, as well as the issues state legislators will ponder during the interim.

Shumate Under Pressure To Leave Leadership Post?

Some House Democrats want Rep. Jabar Shumate (pictured) of Tulsa to step down as a top party leader in the House, two sources tell The McCarville Report Online. There also appears to be unrest aimed at two other House leaders in both parties; the concern is focused on their failure to pay state income taxes. Talk about them apparently escalated yesterday after House Speaker Lance Cargill resigned, in part over his failure to pay taxes in timely fashion.

"Some of us are sick and tired of the irresponsibility of some (members) making all of us look bad," said a rural Democrat. "I'm so tired of hearing about this from my folks...."

House Minority Leader Danny Morgan, D-Prague, said earlier that he realizes that both Republicans and Democrats failed to file tax returns. "There is no excuse for all of them not taking care of this; they should have known better," he said. Morgan said a man at his church surmised that Cargill understood how to reduce taxes: "Just don't file them."

Rep. Mike Reynolds, R-Oklahoma City, perhaps echoing the sentiments of both Republicans and Democrats in the House, said the problem with the controversy over filing tax returns "makes all lawmakers look bad."

How widespread the effort to remove Shumate from the Democrat leadership post of assistant minority leader isn't known, but it comes on the heels of a report in The Oklahoman that Shumate, as of the newspaper report eight days ago, had not filed state income tax returns for the years 1999, 2001, 2004, 2005 and 2006 and that other House leaders in both parties also failed to file state tax returns.

The Oklahoman reported that Shumate was one of five legislators tardy with tax filings. The others included Cargill, who resigned as House speaker yesterday after repeated accounts of late income and property tax filings; Republican Rep. Don Armes of Faxon, who failed to file returns for 2005 and 2006; Democrat Rep. Ryan McMullen of Burns Flat, who failed to file in 2001 and 2006; Shumate; and Senator Connie Johnson, Oklahoma City Democrat, who failed to file returns in 2004, 2005 and 2006.

McMullen (right) resigned last fall as House Democratic Caucus chairman and the Caucus elected Rep. Chuck Hoskin to replace him. “Ryan is the rising star of our House caucus,” said Rep. James Covey, D-Custer City, at the time legislative newcomer McMullen was named Caucus chairman. “He is well respected among our members. Many of our senior members of the Legislature look to Ryan for guidance on a variety of issues and he has been energetic and relentless in his fight for Western Oklahoma. We’re very fortunate to have such a rising leader representing our area.”

Armes is one of four deputy majority whips.

Shumate is one of eight assistant Democrat floor leaders in the House. Elected in 2004 and reelected in 2006, Shumate has been viewed by some as a rising Democratic Party star. A graduate of the University of Oklahoma, he was a member of a Leadership Oklahoma class and has been involved in a long list of community and state organizations.

It's McCain By One On Florida Election Morning

Compiled from InsiderAdvantage and Southern Political Report staff ~ John McCain has a one-point lead going into Election Day in what could be the most important presidential primary race in America this year. Our final overnight poll of the Florida Republican primary came out like this: John McCain (31%), Mitt Romney (30%), Mike Huckabee (15%), Rudy Giuliani (13%), Ron Paul (2%), Other (2%), Undecided (7%).

The poll sampled 813 registered Florida voters who have already voted by early or absentee ballot in the Florida Republican presidential primary, or who plan to vote in that primary today, Election Day. The poll has a margin of error of plus or minus 3.4%.

Edwards Eyes Brokered Democrat Convention

From The Hill ~ Former Sen. John Edwards (D-N.C.) has his sights set on playing kingmaker at the Denver convention in August, one of his most senior campaign officials hinted Monday.

While dismissing suggestions that this implied Edwards had accepted he was out of contention for the nomination, Deputy Campaign Manager Jonathan Prince said the candidate would probably get enough delegates to play a decisive role in tipping the Democratic nomination under party rules.

Party insiders could also give Edwards the nomination at a brokered convention if they judged him more electable in a match-up against GOP front-runner Sen. John McCain (Ariz.). “At a brokered convention, all bets are off,” said Prince.

Dittman Resigns From Abstractors Board

Tulsa abstractor Randy Dittmann said Monday he will step down as a member and chairman of the Oklahoma Abstractors Board.

The announcement comes amid allegations that Dittmann, a registered Republican, made illegal campaign contributions to Oklahoma Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan, a Democrat. Those allegations are among many contained in federal court documents in the McMahan case.

Dittmann, president of Buffalo Land Abstract Co., said the statements against him in an application for a search warrant of McMahan’s Tecumseh home are “grossly inaccurate.

“Because I do not want the board to be hampered or distracted by the loose allegations that have been tossed out, I am stepping down,” he said.

The search resulted in McMahan and his wife Lori, being indicted for conspiracy, mail fraud and bribery in connection with accepting more than $140,000 from Kiowa businessman Steven Phipps, who once owed several abstracting businesses with former Senator Gene Stipe, a McAlester Democrat, in exchange for favorable treatment.

The Legislature removed the auditor’s office from regulation over the abstracting industry when the allegations against McMahan surfaced last year. In its place, the Oklahoma Abstractors Board was formed to give the industry an independent look.

Dittman was appointed to the board by Governor Brad Henry.

Senate Democrats Unveil 'Vision For Oklahoma'

Senate Democratic leaders today unveiled their “Vision for Oklahoma” focusing on policies that they say will increase opportunities and foster responsibility for all Oklahomans.

The title is remarkably similiar to the one used last year by Senate Republicans with their "Vision for a Better Oklahoma."

“Oklahomans want a government that works for them—a government that works across party lines to bring greater opportunities and promotes responsibility,” President Pro Tempore Mike Morgan (pictured) said. “This legislative session, the Senate Democratic caucus will fight every day to bring about effective policies that make a real difference in the lives of our people.”

Democratic Floor Leader and President Pro Tempore Designate Charlie Laster (D-Shawnee) pointed to policies that will help grow Oklahoma as top priority for the Senate Democratic Caucus including the following priorities: Corporate Responsibility, Greater Opportunities for Higher Education, Greater Healthcare Opportunities and Insurance Reform, Responsible Tax Cuts, and Responsible Investments for Oklahoma’s Future.

“Focusing on these important priorities in the upcoming session, Senate Democrats hope to give all Oklahomans the tools they need to achieve a brighter future,” Laster said. “We have a responsibility to those who elected us to be their voice in the Senate to fight for policies that matter to them, rather than focus on policies that help the powerful special interests that roam these capitol halls.” Laster said in a year when budgeting will be tight it will be more important than ever to prioritize investments that will help grow Oklahoma’s economy.

“Facing a sluggish national economy, Oklahoma needs to be pro-active in creating policies that will continue the growth we have seen in recent years,” Laster said. “That includes ensuring we are investing wisely in education to grow our workforce, creating policies that increase access to affordable healthcare to lower the number of uninsured in our state and investing in infrastructure improvements across our state.”

State Senator Kenneth Corn, Co-Chairman of the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee for Public Safety and Judiciary and a Democrat from Poteau said keeping Oklahomans safe is one of governments greatest responsibilities.

“It is no secret that in previous years Oklahoma’s corrections system has faced tough times with prison overcrowding and staff shortages,” he said. “We intend to use the recently released independent audit as a road map to ensure we are making necessary changes and wise investments to help keep all our citizens safe.”

State Senator Debbe Leftwich said in this election year, the Senate Democratic Caucus wants to rise above the political posturing to help move Oklahoma forward. “We cannot allow an election year to stop us from doing what is right for the people of this state,” the Democrat from South Oklahoma City said. “Our vision for Oklahoma includes making certain that government is responsible to the people, that insurance companies are responsible to their policy holders and that Oklahomans are displaying personal responsibility to help themselves move into greatness.”

Morgan (D-Stillwater) said he will continue to ensure Oklahoma’s historic power-sharing agreement remains intact and that the people’s business is conducted in a manner that will make all Oklahomans proud. “As we begin the first session of Oklahoma’s second 100 years, we have the opportunity to make tremendous progress in this state,” he said. “We are committed to making the tough decisions required to bring Oklahoma a government that works for them.”

Brown Can't Resist Cheap Shot, Ignores McMahan

Rep. Mike Brown, Tahlequah Democrat, couldn't resist a cheap shot today following the resignation of Lance Cargill as speaker of the House. Ignoring the federal indictment of Democrat Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan and his wife, and allegations they and other Democrats violated Oklahoma law as well, Brown aimed his statement only at Cargill and Republicans when he said, “If the Republican Speaker stepped aside because of unethical or illegal campaign activities then there is obviously a dark cloud over the Republican Caucus. We must ensure that the integrity of the House is restored by guaranteeing that ongoing investigations not be hampered in any way. Full and adequate funding for ethics reform is a priority. The corruption at the State Capitol needs (sic) stop right here and right now.”

Is Winchester Leading Candidate To Replace Cargill?

House Republican sources say they believe Rep. Susan Winchester of Chickasha is the leading candidate to replace Lance Cargill as House speaker.

Following Cargill's resignation this afternoon, Rep. Gus Blackwell, the speaker pro tem, took control of the House. Republicans will caucus next week after the Legislature convenes to select a new speaker.

"Susan has the respect and confidence of the members," a top GOP legislator told The McCarville Report Online. "Just off the top, she's the leader in my estimation. Gus is a good guy, but Susan probably has a leg up." He cautioned, however, that the vote to replace Cargill won't take place until next week and, "a lot can happen in a week."

Others apparently in the race to succeed Cargill are Blackwell, Dale DeWitt, Chris Benge and Greg Piatt. Blackwell is quoted as saying he hasn't decided yet if he will seek the post at next week's caucus.

GOP Chairman Jones: 'It was the right thing to do'

Republican State Chairman Gary Jones said this afternoon the resignation of Republican House Speaker Lance Cargill was "the right thing to do."

Jones' comments came on Mark Shannon's show on Oklahoma City radio station KTOK.

Jones said there should be no comparison to Cargill's recent publicized shortcomings and the case of Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan, Democrat facing a federal indictment alleging corruption and campaign finance violations. Jones was McMahan's opponent in 2002 and 2006.

Jones said Cargill did "the honorable thing" in stepping aside. He said doing so removes Democrat criticism of Cargill as a roadblock to GOP legislative goals.

Cargill's Resignation Statement

“I have decided to step aside today as speaker of the Oklahoma House of Representatives. I want nothing more than to have good ideas to move forward without the burden of being weighed down by personal stories about me. I have always said my leadership has been about good ideas, and this move will allow those ideas to flourish as they should.

“For several weeks, our policies heading into the session have been buried in the newspapers, while personal stories have remained on the front pages. I take full responsibility for that, and hope that a new speaker can shift the focus back to the future of this great state.

“This decision came after I spoke with most of my colleagues over the weekend. I am humbled and honored by the outpouring of support the caucus has shown me and their continued endorsement in my leadership. But, one of the responsibilities of a leader is putting the needs of the whole before the needs of my own.

“For the future I will, with more inspiration than ever, fervently pursue my ideas from a chair at the back of the chamber. I remain confident that we can still make 2008 a year of solutions.

“This has been a remarkable journey. Many of you know that I was raised in the small town of Harrah. My dad was a fork-lift driver and mom was a stay-at-home mother. My parents worked hard, lived right, and taught my brother and me about faith, family and community. I have to say it was my upbringing, and the inspiration of my family, that allowed me to be the first in my immediate family to graduate from college and to attend Vanderbilt law school.

“I came home to Oklahoma because I this is where I want to live, these are the people that I love, and because I aspired to be a servant of the people and an agent for change. I have spent the past five years tearing down the walls of the old-guard that left Oklahoma stuck in the past, unable to inspire and incapable of moving forward. So for me, this is both a time of reflection and to celebrate our accomplishments.

“Tomorrow for me is a brand new day as I will unveil the 100 Ideas book, which we spent the past year writing. It was truly a bi-partisan initiative and we have together written a book full of innovative ideas. I hope that it's time to put those ideas on the front pages of our newspapers, so that we can have a genuine and open debate about the best way to move Oklahoma into the second century.

“I know there are a lot of questions about how this move will impact the upcoming session and our caucus is working out the details and we will have more answers in the coming days.”

CARGILL RESIGNS AS HOUSE SPEAKER

House Speaker Lance Cargill resigned that post today just a week before the 2008 Legislature convenes.

Cargill, at 36 the youngest House speaker in the nation, took the action following another embarrassing revelation, this one that he failed to pay taxes on his Harrah law firm in timely fashion. That followed an earlier revelation that he had failed to file his personal income taxes in timely fashion.

Those reports followed the revelation that Cargill and other top Republicans attended a Mike Huckabee fundraiser at the Dallas home of controversial businessman Gene Phillips, key figure in the scandal that drove former Insurance Commissioner Carroll Fisher, a Democrat, from office. A House committee last year approved a measure that would benefit Phillips' business interests; the bill died however, in the House.

Cargill also faces an Ethics Commission probe into how checks payable to one GOP political action committee wound up deposited into the account of another entity.

"It was just too much," one GOP House member said. "Constant negative stuff and it just didn't end."

House Speaker Pro Tem Gus Blackwell of Goodwell will take over until a new election for speaker is held, sources said. A leading candidate, they added, is Rep. Susan Winchester of Chickasha.

The leader of House Democrats, Rep. Danny Morgan of Prague, said, "“Our thoughts are with Representative Cargill and his family today. I am sure that this is a very trying time and we will keep him and his family in our prayers. There are good men and women who serve in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. We look forward to working together with them to restore integrity to the House and pass legislation that is important to all Oklahomans.”

Rep. David Dank, R-Oklahoma City, told The Oklahoman that Cargill's troubles were of his own making.

"It is unfortunate that it had to come to this, but Speaker Cargill brought his troubles on himself," Dank said. "The people of Oklahoma have a right to expect exemplary conduct of those they send to the state Capitol, and he failed that basic test."

Cargill was pressured by his own party to step down, Dank said.

"Oklahomans should know that his resignation came after considerable pressure from members of his own party," he said. "We are determined to advance a true reform agenda during the upcoming session, including passage of the ethics and campaign finance reform bill I have introduced to address many of the same issues that led to Speaker Cargill's resignation. I look forward to working with the new House leadership to make that bill a reality."

CARGILL SETS 3:30 P.M. ANNOUNCEMENT

House Speaker Lance Cargill will make a public announcement at 3:30 p.m., his office announced.

Numerous Republican sources tell The McCarville Report Online that Cargill will announce he is stepping down as speaker "for the good of the House and the (Republican) Party."

Cargill, 35, is the youngest House speaker in the nation.

Blackwell Expected To Take Charge Of House

Republican Rep. Gus Blackwell (pictured), The McCarville Report Online is being told, will take over as speaker of the Oklahoma House this afternoon if, as is anticipated, Speaker Lance Cargill steps down.

Numerous sources say Cargill will resign as speaker, although there's been no official comment and Cargill has not responded to a request for comment.

"It's not a done deal until it's a done deal," one member quipped when asked if Cargill plans to resign. "But I expect it, yes," he added.

One member said Cargill has "lost the confidence of the members" following reports he was late in filing personal income taxes and paying property taxes on his Harrah law firm.

Some members, it is said, urged Cargill to remain as speaker, but a poll of GOP members by other members showed many want him to step aside.

Blackwell, from Goodwell, has been the speaker pro tem, the No. 2 leadership position in the House.

Under House rules, Blackwell would be speaker until a new election for the seat is held. Insiders say the two leading candidates might be Blackwell and Rep. Susan Winchester of Chickasha. Winchester is term-limited in 2010, Blackwell in 2014.

'Serious Announcement' Expected From Cargill

A "serious announcement" about his future as speaker of the Oklahoma House is expected from Rep. Lance Cargill of Harrah this afternoon, two high-ranking Republican House members tell The McCarville Report Online.

The sources say they expect the announcement to come during a 3 p.m. GOP Caucus with at least some members joining via a conference call hookup.

Earlier, TMRO was told Cargill has been dealing today with unrest among GOP members following the revelation that, in addition to being late filing his personal income taxes, he has been late in filing taxes on his law firm.

Asked if Cargill may resign the speakership, one member of his leadership team said, "I simply can't comment on that."

Cargill Deals With Unrest Among GOP Legislators

House Speaker Lance Cargill today is dealing with unrest among Republican House members following the weekend revelation that he failed to pay taxes on his Harrah law firm in timely fashion.

A source inside the House said Cargill is being told the reports about his taxes, and his failure to file his personal income taxes on time, have angered voters.

"We're all hearing about it from our constituents," said one GOP member who hopes Cargill steps down from the leadership post.

A second source told The McCarville Report Online he expects some announcement from Cargill at a 3 p.m. GOP Caucus meeting today.

Renegar Wants State Employee Pay Hike Of $2,700

Noting that state employee pay significantly trails market rates and is fueling a crisis in worker turnover, Rep. Brian Renegar today said approval of $2,700 across-the-board pay raise for state employees must be a priority this legislative session.

"Teachers have been rewarded with significant pay raises over the past four years for the important work they do," said Renegar,D-McAlester. "On the other hand, state employees have had only three pay raises in the last eight years. State employees in my district have actually lost an incredible amount of purchasing power, which affects all of the McAlester area.

"State employees provide vital services to the people in my district and to the economy here," Renegar said. "The prisons, Department of Transportation, agriculture and tourism agencies are all vital to our quality of life. In the rural areas, people must often travel long distances to work and their wages have to offset those costs. State employees have waited patiently behind teachers and this needs to be their year."

Because of inconsistent pay raises, the average state employee paycheck has lost approximately $2,700 in purchasing power, he said. The increasing cost of food and fuel is making it harder for state employee families to make ends meet, Renegar noted.

Expired Driver's License Still A Pain, But...

State Rep. Randy Terrill and State Senator Cliff Aldridge today praised the Department of Public Safety for simplifying the process for people to renew expired driver's licenses.

"The people of Oklahoma do not want the state to issue driver's licenses to illegal aliens," said Aldridge, R-Midwest City. "At the same time, however, citizens do not want to be needlessly inconvenienced. DPS' actions have ensured that we are responding to the will of the people on both counts."

Due to the passage of House Bill 1804, Oklahoma's omnibus immigration reform law, individuals with an expired driver's license must now provide proof of legal presence in the United States - for citizens, typically an original, certified birth certificate - before they can renew an expired driver's license.

As a result, individuals with an expired license have had to obtain a copy of their birth certificate and take it to the Department of Public Safety for verification before obtaining a license at a tag agency. However, DPS will soon allow tag agents to examine and verify birth certificates onsite, eliminating the hassle created by an initial administrative interpretation of the new law. As a result, most drivers will once again be able to renew a license by visiting just one office.

Rob Johnson To Seek Corporation Commission Seat?

From RedOklahoma ~ The editors of RedOklahoma have been informed that State Representative Rob Johnson (R-Kingfisher) is set to announce his candidacy for the Oklahoma Corporation Commission. According to the tip emailed our way, Johnson will make a formal announcement this week.

Johnson has long been rumored to be eyeing the Corporation Commission seat currently held by liberal Democrat Jim Roth. Roth was appointed by Governor Brad Henry to fill the position left vacant when Denise Bode left the Commission to head-up the American Clean Skies Foundation (a natural gas advocacy organization based in Washington DC).

Johnson currently serves as Majority Whip of the State House and has strong ties to some of Oklahoma’s most generous Republican donors. While this is his first statewide race, many political insiders consider Johnson the frontrunner for the GOP nomination. Dana Murphy is also seeking the Commission post.

Democrat Blogger Calls For McMahan's Ouster

One of the administrators of a popular blog for Democrats, http://www.demookie.com/, Tim Reese, has called on indicted Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan to leave office.

In an editorial entitled, "There Is No Room For Crooks In The Democratic Party," Tim Reese writes, "It’s time for SA&I Jeff McMahan to step down. We were supporters of Jeff during his first campaign we even handed out flyers. We rooted for him he traveled the state, city by city, town by town. We are now so disappointed that a nice guy ended up joining the dark side. Now he’s nothing but a crook. When we first heard of the allegations several years ago, some of us were shocked. We were definitely disappointed. We knew the FBI was snooping around, we knew there was truth to at least most of the allegations and that McMahan was about to be indicted. We even broke the story before the indictments were handed down. We’ve given him the doubt now for several years. Audio Tapes will confirm what we already know. Jeff McMahan is a crooked politician and he’s lucky he didn’t get indicted for some of the stuff that they could have. The Democratic Party has been characterized as the party of the “big tent”, there is plenty of room for everyone, except for crooked politicians. Now get the hell out Jeff and don’t let the door slam you on your behind on the way out the door."

81% Of Black SC Voters Chose Obama

FOX News exit polls in South Carolina showed that 77 percent of South Carolina voters said they think the country is ready to elect a black president and 76 percent said it is ready for a woman president. A large majority of voters said they’d be satisfied with either front-runner as the Democratic nominee.

But the race, in a lot of ways, did come down to race. No one asked directly, but if South Carolina voters based their decision on having the same skin color as the candidate, it would explain why 81 percent of black voters — who made up 53 percent of the electorate — chose Obama.

The polling also showed that 79 percent of black women who voted — 33 percent of the overall electorate — supported the Illinois senator over 19 percent who preferred the former first lady. Among white women, Clinton won by 44 percent to 34 percent for Edwards and 22 percent for Obama.

Notably, the public bickering between Obama and his opponent’s husband, Bill Clinton, may have hurt Hillary Clinton. Twenty-six percent of voters said Bill Clinton was very important in deciding their vote, and of those 46 percent backed Hillary Clinton and 43 percent Obama.

13 Years Later, Jesse Trentadue Gets Response

By Jerry Bohnen, NewsRadio 1000 KTOK ~ Attorney Jesse Trentadue's response to a government reply 13 years after he made a Freedom of Information Act request over the 1995 death of his brother, Kenneth, cannot be printed in total. In short, it was "same ole ****!"

Thirteen years after he made the request to the U.S. Department of Justice to learn more how his brother died in the Oklahoma City Federal Transfer Center, the Salt Lake City Attorney (pictured) received this week a letter from the government. Trentadue made the original request in November of 1995, a few months after his brother's mysterious death. In September, 1996, he appealed a decision by the Department of Justice to deny him prison records of any telephone calls to his brother during his stay at the FTC in Oklahoma City.

"This Office recently discovered, during an internal review of its administrative appeal backlog, that three of the eighteen administrative appeals that you have submitted to this Office since November 1995 remain open," wrote Janice Galli McLeod, the Associate Director of the Office of Information at the Justice Department.

Galli McLeod continued that after considering the more than ten year old appeal, she was "remanding your request for further processing of the records response to your request." In short, Trentadue faced another government review and delaly of his original request made in 1995.

But Galli McLeod also said that the original exemption stated for not releasing the records in 1995 no longer applied because of a "change in the status of the Civil Rights Divison investigation during the intervening period between your administrative appeal and today."

She said that any releasable records would be sent to Trentadue, "subject to any fees."

Trentadue continues to wage his fight with the government over his brother's death, a death that he believes is linked to the Oklahoma City bombing of the Murrah building. He believes his brother was beaten to death by government agents because of his similarity in description to a possible suspect in the April 1995 attack.

McMahans' Hometown Newspaper: A Sad Day

Editorial, Tecumseh Countywide News ~ Jeff and Lori McMahan have a lot of friends and supporters in Pottawatomie County. Despite clear signals that things were headed in that direction, most were shocked and disappointed Friday when a federal indictment was issued alleging that Oklahoma's state auditor and his wife engaged in what amounts to influence peddling.

You can certainly count us among the disappointed. This all seems so out of character and so very unlike the two friends and neighbors we have known, liked, admired and supported for years.

But couched in colorful language, the indictment is very real and very serious. It was issued by a federal grand jury in the Eastern District of Oklahoma and outlines what federal prosecutors believe was a pattern of accepting illegal campaign assistance, trips, jewelry and personal favors in exchange for lenient treatment of an Eastern Oklahoma abstract business owned by a one-time Gene Stipe associate identified in the indictment only as “co-conspirator/schemer number one.”

In nine counts based largely on using the mails, this indictment alleges that the McMahan campaign accepted more than $77,000 in questionable contributions in the 2002 election alone while the McMahans themselves took jewelry, a fishing trip, junkets to New Orleans and Biloxi and another to the Democratic National Convention in Boston. Combined with what the government says is favorable treatment of the abstract firm by the auditor and inspector's office, prosecutors allege that adds up to conspiracy, bribery, racketeering and fraud.

Strong stuff, but only one side of the story. Will it convince a jury? Time will tell.

It is an aside but nevertheless interesting that the indictment uses the term “co-conspirator/schemer” a total of 120 times without ever charging or actually naming either individual number one or number two. Those people are being widely identified in the press as Steve Phipps of Kiowa (number one), owner of the abstract company, and Tim Arbaugh (number two), a former employee of the auditor and inspector's office who once headed the abstract division. Viewed in a vacuum, the indictment's failure to identify gives it the flavor of persecuting Eve while letting the serpent slither away. But that isn't entirely the case. Phipps at least has already pleaded guilty to one count of mail fraud (the McMahans are charged with seven) and every person who watches TV knows how prosecutors leverage information to catch bigger fish. As an elected official, Jeff McMahan is a fat largemouth bass.

Attorney Randy C. Eddy, who represents Jeff McMahan (Lori McMahan's lawyer is Kevin Krahl) said while both are “capable of errors in judgment or in association,” they are innocent of the charges. Lots of people in the Shawnee/Tecumseh area hope the lawyers can back that up in court, that even though the government can likely show that the McMahans ran with fast company and let some things get out of control, none of that rises to the level of criminal activity. Once again, time will tell.

It is very important to remember that the McMahans have been indicted, not convicted, and remain innocent until proven guilty. Calls for Jeff McMahan to resign as auditor are at worst blatantly political and at best very premature. But Gov. Brad Henry's suggestion that the auditor and inspector take an administrative leave of absence is one that should be seriously considered. It is hard to see how an office that depends so heavily on integrity and public confidence can effectively operate under a cloud.

Friday was a sad day not only for the McMahans, not only for Tecumseh, not only for Pottawatomie County but for all of Oklahoma. We are deeply saddened for our friends, for our state and for its government.

Obama Routs Clinton In South Carolina, 54-27%

Graphic courtesy Fox News.

Oklahoman: Cargill Late Paying Law Firm Taxes

House Speaker Lance Cargill has been delinquent in paying property taxes on his Harrah law office six years in a row, The Oklahoman reports.

The Sunday edition story by reporters Nolan Clay and Randy Ellis has Cargill apologizing: "I take full responsibility for this error. I certainly apologize to the people of Oklahoma and to my colleagues, and will take steps to ensure these matters are handled in a timely and efficient manner in the future," he said.

Cargill has faced other tax problems recently; The Oklahoman reported the speaker failed to file his 2005 and 2006 personal income tax returns until he received a warning letter from the Tax Commission.

Of Cargill's failure to file property taxes, County Treasurer Butch Freeman, like Cargill a Republican, said, "He's one of my favorite taxpayers because we make a lot of money on him in interest and penalty."

The taxes on Cargill's Harrah law firm are not large, about $750 per year. The paper reports he or his company have paid $562.44 in penalities, interest and fees by paying late.

The paper also reports, "Cargill sent in a $1,623.93 check, dated Jan. 10, to pay his overdue 2007 and 2006 property taxes on his law office, records show. The 2006 tax was more than a year overdue. The 2007 tax, at that point, was just days overdue."

Freeman said Cargill took care of previous taxes in most years after getting "delinquent tax notices."

The Tulsa World's Mick Hinton reported the story on Sunday, with a sidebar detailing controversies involving Cargill:

Three other controversies involving House Speaker Lance Cargill have emerged in the the past year.

They deal with: A fundraiser he attended in December. Meetings with lobbyists outside the state Capitol last spring. An alleged investigation of House Republican PAC activities being conducted by the Oklahoma Ethics Commission.

A report surfaced earlier this month that Cargill and six other Republican lawmakers attended a Texas fundraiser for presidential candidate Mike Huckabee held at the home of controversial Texas businessman Gene Phillips.

At first, Cargill said he didn’t know where the fundraiser was being held but subsequently learned it was at the Dallas home of Phillips.

Former state insurance commissioner Carroll Fisher, a Democrat now in prison, allegedly accepted a $25,000 gift from Phillips and also furniture for Fisher’s office.

Last legislative session, Cargill sponsored an ethics bill to outlaw campaign money from being given to lawmakers inside the state Capitol.At the same time Cargill was proposing reforms, he was calling lobbyists at 15- minute intervals to the Oklahoma City office of Fount Holland, who conducts numerous Republican political campaigns. Cargill was asking lobbyists how much they would contribute to the House PAC, his own campaign and two other GOP-related entities.

The speaker said at the time that the meetings involved “potential contributors who we meet with all the time to try and raise financial support for our political efforts.”

Meanwhile, questionable activity of the House Republican PAC in the 2004 and 2006 election cycles apparently has sparked the attention of the state Ethics Commission, although it cannot confirm whether an investigation is occurring.

Republican Party chairman Gary Jones, former state Rep. Ray Vaughn and state Rep. John Trebilcock, R-Tulsa, have confirmed that late last year they visited the office of the Ethics Commission.

Earlier, Vaughn and some other lawmakers said they were displeased to learn that their $5,000 campaign contributions designated for the state party — sometimes called a Victory Fund — had ended up with the Oklahoma County Republican Party.

Cargill said at the time, “I did not solicit, receive, deposit or expend any Victory Fund checks.”

But in 2004, leaders of the PAC headed by Cargill allegedly found a way to capture that money by turning over bills to the Oklahoma County party, which paid them, documents indicate.

Documents obtained by the Tulsa World indicated that the county party was paying some of the expenses of the House Republican PAC, which hired field representatives to work on key legislative races.

Caught On Tape: Lori McMahan, Steve Phipps

The Oklahoman's Tony Thornton reports today that an FBI affidavit released Friday contains damning allegations against Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan's wife, Lori. Like McMahan, she faces a 9-count federal grand jury indictment.

The allegations come as the FBI reveals it has tape recordings of conversations Lori McMahan had with abstract company owner Steve Phipps. The affidavit provides partial transcripts of conversations between Phipps, Tim Arbaugh (McMahan's abstract division chief) and Lori McMahan concerning alleged cash payments totaling $27,000 from Phipps. In return, according to the indictment, the auditor gave special treatment to Phipps' companies.

The alleged payments took place in 2002. The conversations took place in February 2007.

Concerning Phipps' alleged payments totaling $17,000 for campaign signs, the affidavit quotes Lori McMahan as saying, “I can go down for that if you, you know, if you have to tell about it, it'll be me that goes down with it. I took it and I did it.”

According to the affidavit, she instructed Phipps that if the FBI asks whose cash paid for the signs, “It wasn't yours.”

Henry, Edmondson Argue Guns Promote Safety

From The Tulsa World ~ Oklahoma Gov. Brad Henry and Attorney General Drew Edmondson contend a state law allowing employees to have guns in locked vehicles where they work promotes public safety.

The officials told the 10th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals this week that, contrary to the ruling by a judge in Tulsa, the law does not conflict with the federal Occupational Safety and Health Act.

The governor and attorney general made those arguments in asking the Denver-based court to overturn a ruling by U.S. District Judge Terence Kern in Tulsa’s federal court.

Kern ruled Oct. 4 that OSHA preempts the law, which was adopted in two stages in 2004 and 2005. He issued an injunction barring enforcement of the law.

ConocoPhillips and other large employers in Oklahoma that have policies against guns in their workplaces challenged the law.

Henry and Edmondson, in 22 pages of arguments this week, told the appellate judges the law promotes “the safety and health of Oklahoma citizens."

The state officials said OSHA has declined to set a national policy banning guns from workplaces. The governor and attorney general contend OSHA “should be interpreted in a manner that prevents the interference with the states’ exercise of police power to protect their citizens.”

Dittman Accused In McMahan Scandal

The chairman of the new Oklahoma Abstractors Board, formed to take oversight of the abstract industry following questions about Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan, is accused of making illegal campaign donations to McMahan.

The accusations naming Randy Dittman of Tulsa are found in federal court records that were unsealed Friday in Muskogee federal court when McMahan and his wife, Lori, appeared to answer allegations in the 9-count indictment against them.

The records also show that abstract company owner Larry Witt is accused of organizing illegal contributions for McMahan's campaign. Witt was a partner in the abstract business with former State Senator Gene Stipe and Steve Phipps.

The Oklahoman's Tony Thornton details the allegations today.

An FBI affidavit, Thornton reports, alleges McMahan turned to Dittman for campaign financing in 2006 after his main money source four years earlier, abstract company owner Phipps, came under investigation. The affidavit includes transcripts of taped conversations between Phipps and Lori McMahan.

Dittman, 51, is no stranger to those who examine campaign finance reports for state officials. Ethics Commission records show he gave McMahan $1,000 in his own name in 2002 and $1,200 in 2003. In 2006, he gave $5,000 to McMahan and Governor Brad Henry, $3,500 to Lt. Governor Jari Askins and $2,000 to Insurance Commissioner Kim Holland. He also donated to legislative candidates and gave $2,200 to Republican Fred Morgan's campaign for Congress, other records show.

Dittman was named to the abstract oversight board by Henry on the recommendation of the Oklahoma Land Title Association and by State Reps. Chris Benge, R-Tulsa and Lucky Lamons, D-Tulsa, Thornton reports.

Governor Henry's appointees to the board include Gary Ellis of Bartlesville, Matthew B. Hargis of Oklahoma City, and Dittman. Appointees of the Oklahoma Mortgage Broker Association are Gene Seiter of Edmond, and Aubrey Roberts of Oklahoma City.

Henry earlier had appointed Dittman to the Mortgage Broker Advisory Committee of the Oklahoma Department of Consumer Credit.

Read Thornton's entire account at http://www.newsok.com/.

Cloud Endorses McCain

Corporation Commissioner Jeff Cloud, who had been one of Fred Thompson's Oklahoma coordinators, has endorsed John McCain for the Republican presidential nomination. Thompson withdrew earlier this week.

McMahan Considering Resignation?

The Oklahoman's Tony Thornton reports late today that, State Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan is considering resigning in the wake of a federal indictment accusing him of corruption, his attorney said Friday. “We expect to make an announcement in the near future,” defense attorney Rand C. Eddy said.

Thornton also reports that Republican State Chairman Gary Jones, twice defeated by McMahan, sat in the back of the courtroom at today's proceeding.

Photo of Jeff and Lori McMahan leaving Muskogee Federal Building by Cory Young, Tulsa World.

McMahan Withdraws From Office Duties

Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan announced Friday afternoon that he will turn over the day-to-day operations of the office to Assistant Auditor Michelle Day. The revelation came after McMahan and his wife, Lori, entered pleas of not guilty to accusations contained in a 9-count federal grand jury indictment. Ten years ago, Michelle Day was the attorney for the Department of Public Safety during the controversy over then-Governor Frank Keating's airplane.

Garrison Wants Regular Day To Honor Veterans

State Senator Earl Garrison, D-Muskogee, has filed legislation which would designate the first Monday of each month to honor veterans who are currently serving or were killed in the global war on terrorism.

Senate Bill 1134 asks all state agencies, interested organizations, civic groups and individuals to fly the U.S. flag at half-mast in remembrance of those Oklahomans who are serving or who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces furtherance of victory in the global war on terror, particularly those who have died or have been wounded as a result of such service.

Ethics Commission Approves New Rules, Limits PAC-to-PAC Transfers, Lobbyist Expenditures

From News Reports ~ The Oklahoma Ethics Commission today unanimously approved a stringent rule to stop political action committees from funnelling multiple contributions to a candidate in a tough race.

The commission also voted to allow lobbyists to spend only $100 per year on legislators in an effort to halt certain lawmakers from being treated to high-dollar dinners. The previous limit was $300.

Rep. Mike Reynolds, R-Oklahoma City, said reports indicate political action committees are getting around the intent of the law by moving $5,000 to other PACs, which then transfer that money to a candidate. Ethics officials said they think this is the first such rule in the nation prohibiting PAC-to-PAC contributions.

Ponca City Commissioner John Raley wanted to set a limit of $25 on the price of any meal. However, the commission decided that would be too drastic a change in the rules. The new rules are scheduled to become effective July 1st.

McMahan, Wife Plead Not Guilty

MUSKOGEE – Oklahoma Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan and his wife, Lori McMahan, pleaded not guilty in federal court today on nine counts of conspiracy, mail fraud and state bribery.

The McMahans were ordered to report the federal probation office in Oklahoma City by January 28th. The trial has been set for March 3rd. They were released today without bail.

They were ordered to stay within the eastern and western federal districts of Oklahoma and not to speak to any potential witnesses in the case.

McMahan, a Democrat, remains in office even though he has not been in his office since the indictment was handed down a week ago.

State Rep. Mike Reynolds, R-Oklahoma City, filed a resolution yesterday seeking a House investigation of McMahan that could result in Articles of Impeachment.

House Democrats Outline 2008 Legislative Agenda

House Democrats today laid out their agenda for the 2008 Legislature.

“Oklahomans are some of the hardest working people in the nation,” said Democrat Leader Danny Morgan, D- Prague (pictured). “When given the opportunity, we have achieved great accomplishments. However, we need start to investing in the future of Oklahoma, so our children have the opportunities that I have had.”

“The House Democratic Caucus is committed to making investments that take our State forward,” said Democrat Caucus Chair Chuck Hoskin, D- Vinita. “We have been able to outline areas that matter to working Oklahomans. We are committed to aggressively pursuing this agenda and fighting for working Oklahomans.”

Senate Democrats will announce their agenda on Monday.

House Democrats unveiled an agenda that hits on five key points: Fostering an ethically and fiscally sound government, investing in a rising economy, building a successful and rewarding education system, creating a healthy Oklahoma and protecting our country and communities.

An Ethically and Fiscally Sound Government ~ “Citizens trust their elected officials to make important decisions on their behalf. It is important that we don’t violate their trust and that we punish those who take advantage of their public service position,” said Leader Morgan. “That is why we have made Ethics Reform a top priority for our agenda this Session.”

House Democrats have included several measures in their Ethics Reform package. House Bill 2655 by Representative Lucky Lamons, D- Tulsa, would provide the Ethics Commission with the resources they need to oversee political fundraising activities more closely. House Bill 1056 establishes a cap on money that can be raised by candidates for public office and House Bill 2196 is a bipartisan measure that eliminates outrageous political fundraising tactics.

“Elected officials should have nothing to hide,” said Lamons. “These measures will guarantee that we are held accountable and have an honest government that works for everyday Oklahomans.”

Leaders in the House Democratic Caucus have also filed measures that would consolidate government agencies and save taxpayers money. House Bill 2671 by Leader Morgan would consolidate the House and Senate staff into one agency and House Bill 2899 would require Legislative Leaders to use zero based budgeting techniques when crafting a budget.

“We hear a lot of rhetoric about saving taxpayer dollars in the State Capitol,” said Leader Morgan. “However, we have identified several areas that we believe have been overlooked. When it comes to responsible government, we’re looking to enact real reform, not just window dressing.”

Investing in a Rising Economy ~ “Our economy is on the move,” said Morgan. “We need to make investments that keep our economy strong and maintain a healthy workforce to attract new businesses to Oklahoma.” House Democrats will look to build off of last year’s landmark investments in the OCAST and EDGE funds and continue to promote programs that provide working Oklahomans with healthcare coverage.

“We worked very hard last year to expand the O-EPIC program,” said Hoskin. “We need to promote this program and continue to provide healthcare coverage for working families throughout the State.”

In addition to continuing to make investments in Oklahoma’s economy, House Democrats will fight to provide responsible tax relief to working Oklahomans. Among the tax relief policies proposed are: House Bill 2919, A bipartisan proposal for a tax exemption to teachers who buy school supplies for their classroom; House Bill 2493, A tax exemption for college text book costs; House Bill 2894- A tax credit for medical expenses; House Bill 2482- A tax exemption for children of veterans killed in combat; House Bill 2853- A tax credit for rural firefighters; House Bill 2940- A tax credit for student loan repayments.

“These tax relief proposals are all sensible and are targeted towards middle class, working Oklahomans,” said Morgan.

A Successful and Rewarding Education ~ “Recent reports have shown that our schools and teachers are some of the best in that nation,” said Representative Jerry McPeak, D- Warner. “However, these same reports show that our schools are under-funded and they desperately need the resources in order to provide our children with a quality education. Last year’s funding for schools was insufficient to cover the costs mandated by the state.”

McPeak and several other Legislators held meetings with school superintendents over the interim to discuss the current state of public school districts across Oklahoma. They have taken the concerns raised in those meetings and included them in their agenda. It includes the provisions in House Bill 2620 by McPeak that prevents the Legislature from considering teacher performance pay measures until the regional average for per pupil expenditure in school districts is met.

“We believe that until the regional average for per pupil dollars spent on public education is reached, no performance pay plan should be discussed,” said McPeak. “Promises have been made, requirements have been placed on public schools and funds have not been given to fund these requirements.”

Teachers should also receive a pay raise under the plan crafted by House Democrats. House Bill 2746 by Representative Neil Brannon, D- Arkoma, awards teachers with a pay raise that will put them at the regional average for teacher pay. House Bill 2484 by Representative Eric Proctor, D- Tulsa, would give bonuses to teachers working in schools where more than 25% of the student population qualify for free or reduced lunches.

“My plan is real performance pay,” said Proctor. “As a former teacher, I know what it takes to educate the future of Oklahoma. Year after year we lose good teachers to states surrounding Oklahoma. We need to give more incentives to our teachers to stay in Oklahoma in order to remain competitive. It is even harder to keep teachers in inter-city and poor rural communities.”

A Healthy Future ~ “Businesses need a healthy workforce to thrive,” said Leader Morgan. “We have several bills that will ease the burden of healthcare costs on working Oklahomans.” Among the bills filed is House Bill 2936 that would provide healthcare coverage for all children under the age of 18 and House Bill 2495 that would allow college students to stay on their parent’s insurance plan while they are in college up to the age of 24.

“The pain of the high cost of healthcare is being felt everywhere,” said Representative Bill Nations, D- Norman, the author of House Bill 2936. “We started down the right path by passing the All Kids Act last Session, but now we need to go even further. If Oklahoma provided insurance coverage for all of its children, imagine what kind of jobs would be attracted to this State.”

Protecting our Country and Communities ~ “There is no higher calling than to volunteer to keep our country and communities safe,” said Leader Morgan. “We believe that we should reward those who put their life on the line for the sake of our protection.” Vice-Chairman of the Veterans Affairs Sub-Committee Ryan Kiesel, D- Seminole, has filed a bill to provide healthcare coverage for veterans. House Bill 2841 would establish the Veterans Health Insurance Program.

“Oklahoma is a national leader in the number of our men and women who serve in the military. It is in our character as Oklahomans to serve; it is also in our character to honor the service of our soldiers and that is exactly what my bill does,” said Kiesel.

House Democrats have also filed measures that would crack down on individuals who endanger Oklahoma’s children. House Bill 3266 by Representative Terry Harrison, D- McAlester, would require that parents who are accused of abusing their children would lose their visitation rights until a judge solves the case. House Bill 2929 by Representative Eric Proctor would create an online website where parents and single mothers can search for individuals who have been convicted of domestic violence.

“Our agenda this Session has been put together with input from working Oklahomans across the State,” said Leader Morgan. “House Democrats look forward to working with our colleagues in the House and Senate and with the Governor on enacting this agenda and making new investments in our State.”

SPR: McCain, Romney Tied In Florida

From The Southern Political Report ~ Our latest InsiderAdvantage survey of Florida, conducted with our partners at Majority Opinion Research, shows John McCain and Mitt Romney in basically a tie going into the weekend before the huge Florida Republican primary.

Read the entire story at www.southernpoliticalreport.com.

Morgan Wants Teen Cellphone-Driving Ban

A bill filed by House Democratic Leader Danny Morgan would make it illegal for teenagers to use cellphones or text while driving.

"Teenagers have their hands full just learning to drive," said Morgan, D-Prague. "If you add talking on the phone or texting friends into the mix, you're just creating the recipe for an accident. My legislation will provide a little incentive for those kids to focus on driving instead of talking on the phone."

House Bill 2964, by Morgan, would make it illegal for anyone younger than 18 to "operate a motor vehicle on a street or highway while using a cellular telephone or electronic communication device while the motor vehicle is in motion."

Teenagers caught talking while driving would face a $25 fine.

The bill contains exemptions in emergency situations requiring police or medical attention.

The link between cell-phone use and driver inattention has been the subject of several formal studies in recent years. The 100-Car Naturalistic Driving Study, conducted by the Virginia Tech Transportation Institute and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (released in April 2006), found that almost 80 percent of crashes and 65 percent of near-crashes involved some form of driver inattention within three seconds of the event. The study found that the most common distraction is the use of cell phones.

Motorists who use cell phones while driving are also four times as likely to get into crashes serious enough to injure themselves, according to a July 2005 study of drivers in Perth, Australia, conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety.

Mike Reynolds Calls For McMahan Investigation

State Rep. Mike Reynolds today filed legislation to create a special committee to investigate State Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan and determine whether Articles of Impeachment should be pursued.

"Given the very serious charges leveled against Mister McMahan by federal investigators, the members of the Oklahoma House of Representatives now have a clear constitutional duty to investigate those charges and determine if impeachment is appropriate," said Reynolds, R-Oklahoma City.

House Resolution 1051, by Reynolds, calls for the creation of a Special Investigating Committee of the House of Representatives "to conduct a comprehensive and detailed study and investigation of the activities of Jeff McMahan, State Auditor and Inspector ..."

The committee would have the power to subpoena witnesses, documents and records; take testimony under oath and request punishment for contempt for "any disobedience of process."

Speaker Lance Cargill (R-Harrah) would appoint the committee members.

The process outlined in the resolution is similar to the one used during the investigation and eventual impeachment of former Insurance Commissioner Carroll Fisher.

McMahan has been indicted on one count of conspiracy, six counts of mail fraud and two counts of violating the federal Travel Act to promote bribery.

Following McMahan's indictment, several officials suggested the auditor should step aside until a conviction or acquittal occurred, but Reynolds said that may not be legally permissible. Reynolds noted there is no provision in the Oklahoma Constitution allowing an elected official to "step aside" while still retaining office. In fact, he said some legal experts believe McMahan will effectively vacate his office should he step aside and, as a result, could then actually be impeached for "nonperformance of duty."

Reynolds said he will ask Attorney General Drew Edmondson to issue a formal opinion on that legal question.

Cargill Endorses John McCain

House Speaker Lance Cargill has endorsed Republican John McCain for president, McCain's campaign said. Cargill, R-Harrah, will serve as legislative chair of McCain's campaign in Oklahoma, one of more than 20 states with presidential primaries on February 5th. Cargill described McCain as "a true fiscal and social conservative" who can unite the Republican party.

Rice Named President Of Rogers State University

Former State Rep. Larry Rice has been named president of Rogers State University in Claremore.

Rice will be paid $205,000 per year to head the 4,000-student university.

Rice has been executive assistant to the president of Tulsa University. He served in the State House from 1986 to 2004. Rice is a former faculty member at Rogers State. He earned his doctorate in education from Oklahoma State University. His master's and bachelor's degrees were earned from Notheastern State University.

Fallin Co-sponsors Border Fence Act

Congresswoman Mary Fallin announced today her support and co-sponsorship of the "Fence by Date Certain Act."

The bill, HR 4987, requires more than 700 miles of double-layered fence to be built along border locations in California, Arizona, New Mexico and Texas. It also ensures that sufficient funds are required for the fence and mandates its completion by June 30, 2009.

Sullivan Delinquent In Paying Property Taxes

State Rep. Dan Sullivan of Tulsa confirmed Tuesday that he is delinquent in paying property taxes totaling nearly $7,000 for his home in Tulsa and a condominium in Oklahoma City. Sullivan, a Republican, said he is going through a divorce and thought the 2007 taxes would be paid by a Dec. 31 deadline.

For details see, www.tulsaworld.com or www.newsok.com.

Huckabee Campaign Staggers Into Florida

Republican Mike Huckabee said Tuesday his presidential campaign is facing financial difficulties with top advisers working without pay and some aides quitting. The former Arkansas governor promised to remain in the race through next Tuesday's Florida primary, telling about 50 people, mostly University of Florida fraternity members: "We are taking a look at everything daily. But we will be here every day in Florida until next week."

Supreme Court: No More Legislative 'Logrolling'

The state Supreme Court today warned state lawmakers not to appropriate money for more than one project in a single bill.

The ruling came in a lawsuit challenging $140 million appropriated last year for multiple projects. The court didn't block the money from being used as appropriated.

The court said the practice known as "logrolling "violates the state Constitution and says it won't hesitate to block such legislation in the future.

The ruling came in a lawsuit filed by Oklahoma City attorney who argued that money for each project should've been in separate bills.

Worthen, Alexander Named To McCain Team

U.S. Senator John McCain's presidential campaign today announced new additions to its Oklahoma Leadership Team. Chad Alexander and State Rep. Trebor Worthen (pictured) will serve as the McCain campaign’s Oklahoma Coordinators, leading the growing grassroots organization on behalf of John McCain’s candidacy leading up to Oklahoma’s February 5th Primary.

Alexander and Worthen join Honorary State Chairmen, Oklahoma Senator Tom Coburn and Oklahoma Governor Frank Keating.

"There is no greater champion of fiscal responsibility and government reform than John McCain," said Alexander. "John McCain's conservative convictions and principled leadership are what our nation needs right now, and that’s why I am proud to back him for the Republican nomination."

"I am honored to work for a man like Senator McCain whose integrity and character is unmatched. Oklahomans, like all Americans, will choose a President who has the experience to lead on day one, and John McCain is that man," said Worthen.

McCain spoke to his appreciation for his Oklahoma team: "I am pleased to have the backing and support of these veteran Republican leaders. My campaign will benefit from their hard work and energy as we work towards a victory in Oklahoma."

Alexander previously worked to elect J.C. Watts, Jr. as the first African American to serve in Congress from Oklahoma. After managing the re-elections of Congressman Watts, Alexander was elected chairman and executive director of the Oklahoma Republican Party.

Worthen was elected in 2004 to the Oklahoma legislature as its youngest member. He previously served as political director of the Oklahoma Republican Party. Worthen currently serves as chairman of the House Taxpayer Protection Caucus and chairman of the House Elections and Redistricting committee.

Luttrell Wants Smoking Ban In Cars With Kids

Hoping to protect children from the harmful effects of smoking, legislation filed by Rep. Ken Luttrell would make it illegal to smoke in a car carrying minors.

"I feel we have an obligation to protect our children," said Luttrell, D-Ponca City. "You wouldn't drink and then drive a car with children in it, so why would you want to expose your children to concentrated smoke? Who will protect children if their parents won't?"

House Bill 2589, by Luttrell, would make it illegal to smoke while driving if minors are present in a vehicle. Violations would result in a fine of up to $100. The bill would also make it illegal to seat minors in a smoking room at a restaurant or other facility.

Thompson Quits GOP Presidential Race

Statement By Republican Presidential Candidate Fred Thompson: "Today I have withdrawn my candidacy for president of the United States. I hope that my country and my party have benefited from our having made this effort. Jeri and I will always be grateful for the encouragement and friendship of so many wonderful people."

Oklahoma's Four Best Places To Work

By Jack Money, Business Writer, The Oklahoman ~ Four Oklahoma City companies, including two Oklahoma City-based energy operations, are on Fortune Magazine’s list of the 100 best companies to work for.

American Fidelity, one of the largest private, family-owned life insurance companies in the United States, is on the list for the fifth straight year and is ranked at No. 24.

Tulsa-based QuikTrip, which also has been on the list previously, is listed at No. 28. QuikTrip is a regional chain of convenience stores and travel centers.

New to the list are Devon Energy Corp., at No. 48, and Chesapeake Energy Corp. at No. 61. The Fortune ranking is assembled annually by San Francisco-based Great Place to Work Institute.

GOP House Leaders Unveil 2008 Agenda Items

Republican House leaders unveiled plans today to make state government more modern and efficient, which will be a cornerstone of their agenda this legislative session.

A variety of bills will be carried this session that will move state government in this direction, including upgrades in technology, improvements to the state’s procurement process and the consolidation of agencies with similar purposes, the leadership said in a news release.

“It is without a doubt I say our state government could be, and should be, run more efficiently,” said House Speaker Lance Cargill. “For decades this bloated bureaucracy has gone unchecked; that stops this year.”

Many of the reforms were formulated in this summer’s House interim study, which analyzed a 2006 report from IBM that was only recently released publicly. The report identified at least $70 million in savings if the state put in place industry best practices when it comes to purchasing.

Legislation, called the Centennial Savings Act, will delve into these best practices to see which ones would be most applicable in Oklahoma and should be implemented.

Technological advances have passed this state by, and it is time we catch up, said Rep. Ken Miller, vice-chairman of the House Appropriations and Budget Committee. We must move past the days where companies are forced submit paper bids. Our state must be able to keep track of what it is spending its money on. The state should have a chief technology officer, who would assess technology needs and determine how the state can do more business online, including electronic bidding, Miller said.

“We need to look out for the taxpayers, not the technological dinosaurs who don’t want to use the Internet,” said Miller, R-Edmond.

The state’s permitting should also be streamlined and put online, the release said. For example, currently Oklahomans have as many as seven different water agencies to go to when seeking a water permit. A bill carried by Rep. Dale DeWitt this year would create a water web portal, where Oklahomans could go to see which agency has jurisdiction over the permit they need. Eventually, citizens would then be able to apply for that permit online, streamlining the process for both the government and taxpayer.

Agency consolidation will also be a large part of making our government more efficient, said Rep. Lee Denney.

House Republicans tried unsuccessfully last year to create a Commission on Accountability and Review of State Agencies, which would continually audit agencies to ensure taxpayer funds are spent as efficiently as possible. This year, the push for this new commission will continue.

Several bills will move to consolidate agencies in the state with duplicative functions. House Bill 3381 by Rep. John Wright, R-Tulsa, will split the functions of the Consumer Credit Agency into existing entities, such as the Banking Commission, that are better equipped to deal with the issues those businesses face.

Another bill will combine the Used Motor Vehicle Parts Commission and the Oklahoma Motor Vehicle Commission. The Human Rights Commission would be moved into the Attorney General’s office under one bill, and ABLE would be split between the Oklahoma Tax Commission and the Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics in another.

These consolidations would lead to less overhead and administrative costs and would encourage more cooperation among similar agencies, said Denney, R-Cushing. They will also make state government more user-friendly and easier to navigate.

The government modernization plank also includes some long-term plans that should be studied. Oklahoma has the longest state constitution in the country, and revising the outdated document as we move into our second century is something that deserves consideration.

The state also has one of the weakest executive branches in the country, yet we have more state employees and agencies, boards and commissions than any state our size, said Rep. Scott Martin, R-Norman. The governor needs to have additional appointee power to give him some direct oversight of some of these smaller boards and agencies.

Some of these reforms will lead to savings in the short-term, while others will benefit the state in years to come, but all will lead to a more streamlined government and many will have cost savings that can then be put to other priorities, he added. Keeping better track of the state’s surplus inventory and conducting a comprehensive review of non-core or non-performing state-owned assets would also likely net savings.

“This weekend the governor suggested in an editorial that we dedicate more of our energy taxes to funds like EDGE and OCAST. While I am not yet convinced that funding source is the best option, there is no bigger supporter of knowledge-based initiatives like EDGE, OCAST and OMRF, than me,” said Cargill, R-Harrah.

“As we work to make our government more efficient, millions of dollars in savings could be put back into creating long-term spending and tax cut plans for our state. For years this was seen as an either/or option,” he said. “With the proper planning, and saving money where we can through agency consolidation or technology improvements, we can continue historic investments in education and transportation and still have enough money left over to share those economic fruits with research and the taxpayers. The key is focusing on long-term planning instead of worrying about tomorrow’s headlines.”

Cameron: Thompson Mulls Final Decision

Carl Cameron On His Fox News Blog ~ Fred Thompson sources say the actor and former Tenn senator may withdraw from the race. There are no plans to attend Thursday’s Florida debate. Staffers have been on partial pay since the NH primary. The Senator's plans are very fluid. As of 8:45 this (Monday) evening, there are no plans for any announcement about whether he will stay in the race or not. The team is wrestling with very few options. The Senator is in Nashville visiting his mother (in her 90’s) who has been ill. From THE FIRST DAY Fox News broke the story last March of his candidacy, Thompson has always had a vice presidential bid in mind. Today a top aide even mentioned the idea on Brian and the Judge on Fox News Radio.

59% Say Coburn's McCain Endorsement A Shock

Voters in TMRO's online poll, 59 percent of them, say they are stunned or surprised by Senator Tom Coburn's endorsement of Republican presidential candidate John McCain: 42 percent said they are stunned, 17 percent said they are surprised. Twenty-six percent said they are not surprised and 15 percent said they are elated by the endorsement.

Independent, Republican Registrations Grow In Cleveland County As Democrats Dwindle

From The Red Dirt Political Report ~ The University of Oklahoma’s student population and an increasing number of voters with no political party affiliation, have conspired to change the profile of Cleveland County’s registered voters.

Documents provided by state and local election board officials show major changes in the county’s voter registration — trending away from...(Democrats)...and, instead, toward Independent and Republican registration over the past eight years.

Read the entire story, see the numbers at http://reddirtpoliticalreport.blogspot.com/.

Hamilton Tees Off On New Immigration Law

State Rep. Rebecca Hamilton says today the state's new immigration law isn't sending Hispanics running for the border, but she still wants to enact a new law that would repeal parts of the present law and punish large corporations that exploit immigrant workers.

The Oklahoma City Democrat said, "There has been too much invective, blaming and name-calling where this issue is concerned. That kind of behavior damages our community and encourages legislators to vote for bad laws that don't help anyone. I hope that this bill will begin a conversation focused on finding positive solutions that build our state and that avoid abrogating the human rights of any of our residents.

"The influx of illegal immigrants into Oklahoma is a symptom of larger problems. If we don't address the causes of illegal immigration, we will never be able to deal effectively with it. Illegal immigration is in large part a direct result of the failure of United States corporations operating south of the border to be good corporate citizens in those countries. Legislation that tries only to punish people and pit one group of low-income workers against another doesn't help the problem. In fact, it makes it worse." said Hamilton.

House Bill 3067, by Hamilton, would repeal portions of the law approved last session to address illegal immigration problems (House Bill 1804) - a law many critics argue is anti-Hispanic. Hamilton said her bill would instead target the primary cause of illegal immigration, the exploitation of immigrant workers by large corporations, instead of targeting poor people whose lives are already a financial struggle.

"Every country has the right to defend its own borders, but Oklahoma's current immigration law doesn't do that," Hamilton said. "We need to go after those who profit off illegal immigration both here and in other countries."

Hamilton said her House Bill 3067 would make it illegal for the state of Oklahoma to contract with any company that has closed American facilities and opened new factories outside the country unless they operate those factories in compliance with United States wage, safety and human rights guarantees. Companies that operate in other countries and do not maintain workplace, labor and minimum-wage standards comparable to U.S. law would also be barred from receiving state contracts under the legislation.

Hamilton, who was one of only nine lawmakers to consistently oppose House Bill 1804 in the Legislature, noted those who claim House Bill 1804 is forcing illegal immigrants to leave Oklahoma cannot base those arguments on hard data. And anecdotal evidence clearly contradicts those claims, she said. For example, although Census Bureau figures indicate more illegal immigrants live in Hamilton's south Oklahoma City district than any other district in Oklahoma, there has been no noticeable population shift since House Bill 1804 took effect. "I can say without equivocation that the people in my district are still here," Hamilton said. "If large numbers of people living illegally in Oklahoma are leaving the state, I would have noticed it."

World: Three Senate Races Key To Power Balance

By Barbara Hoberock In The Tulsa World ~ Three races could determine which party controls the state Senate in 2009. Twenty-four of the Senate's 48 seats will be up for election in the fall. The Senate is now tied, with 24 Democrats and 24 Republicans, and operates under a power-sharing agreement. Of the contested seats, 11 are now held by Democrats; 13 are held by Republicans.

Read the entire story at http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/article.aspx?subjectID=12&articleID=20080122_1_A15_hHalf28676.

Oklahoman Editorial: McMahan Should Step Down

Governor Brad Henry wasted no time suggesting Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan take administrative leave to deal with an indictment alleging serious ethical and legal misdeeds by McMahan and his wife. The auditor would be wise to heed Henry's advice.

Given the nature of the work conducted by the office, it's imperative the state auditor and inspector be above reproach. Selling himself as such will be difficult indeed for McMahan while the indictment lingers.

The federal indictment was issued Friday, shortly after jurors heard testimony from Steve Phipps, who owns several abstract companies. The indictment alleges Phipps gave more than $100,000 in illegal campaign contributions and was generous in other ways to McMahan's family, and that in return, McMahan did favors for Phipps.

The abstract industry used to be regulated by the state auditor's office. Now it's regulated by a separate agency, the result of a bill passed last session. McMahan told us last year he was glad his office would be getting out of that business. He also told our editorial board that claims made by his 2006 opponent, Gary Jones, that McMahan's ties to Phipps were stronger than the auditor was letting on, were malarkey. Details in the indictment would seem to indicate that Jones was doing more than just slinging mud.

The indictment alleges Phipps paid McMahan's way for business and leisure trips; that Phipps used straw donors to contribute $77,000 to McMahan's 2002 campaign, then gave McMahan's wife, Lori, another $27,000 in cash for use in that campaign; and that Phipps bought a $1,640 ring for Lori McMahan.

McMahan's attorney says his client is innocent until proven guilty. True enough. But for now, McMahan should listen to the governor and take a leave, allowing someone else to conduct the people's business while he tends to his own.

Pittsburg County Treasurer Mum On Nature Of Her Relationship With Inmate Escapee

By James Beaty, Senior Editor, McAlester News-Capital ~ Pittsburg County Treasurer Cerita Morley has broken her public silence about the escape of county jail inmate James Bever, saying she’s relieved he’s been caught, and also confirming that she is personally under investigation.

Morley, who had been contacted by the News-Capital after the escape in December and had declined to comment, issued a statement on Friday and also sat down for a brief conversation.

She still declined to answer two key questions the News-Capital asked: What was the nature of her relationship with Bever and how did at least one other inmate trusty working at the county courthouse offices obtain alcoholic beverages while supposedly under her supervision?

“That’s part of the investigation,” Morley said.

Morley had checked out Bever, 25, of Rt. 5, Kiowa, as well as another inmate trusty, to work at the county offices at Sixth Street and Choctaw Avenue on the day Bever escaped last December.

She acknowledged letting a trusty inmate use her telephone on the day of the escape — but she now says it wasn’t Bever.

In an affidavit filed in December, Pittsburg County Jail Administrator Tom Steele said Morely had told him that Bever had used her cell phone before he escaped. “I misspoke,” Morley told the News-Capital on Friday. She now says she let another trusty at her office use her cell phone that day — not Bever. Morley said the other inmate had told her he wanted to call a family member.

Morley said she contacted the sheriff’s office when she learned that Bever had escaped.

Morley also said she has two attorneys representing her: District 7 state Sen. Richard Leberlance, D-Hartshorne, and District 18 state Rep. Terry Harrison, D-McAlester.

Why does she feel the need for legal representation? “I’m under investigation,” Morely said. “I have no choice but to get this representation.”

Morely said accusations were hurled at her shortly after the escape. Who accused her? “The sheriff,” Morley said, referring to Pittsburg County Sheriff Jerome “Snookie” Amaranto.

In a written statement, Morely said “We should all be scared and horrified that a career criminal with multiple felony convictions” was allowed to be a trusty. “I have already contacted a legislator to draft a bill to prevent any sheriff in Oklahoma from doing what was done here,” Morley said in her statement. “No sheriff should be allowed to make a dangerous career criminal a trusty,” Morely said, referring to Bever’s previous charges and convictions. “In an attempt to quell rumors, I want all to know that I have cooperated fully with the OSBI during the course of their investigation and will continue to do so,” Morley said in her written statement. “I in no way helped in this escape, purchased any form of alcohol, or sexual relations with any trusty,” Morley’s statement said. “I think it is extremely unfair the sheriff is putting all the blame on me so that no one questions the facts that he allowed a career criminal with escape charges to be a trusty."

Morely said in her statement she wanted to apologize if her actions puts anyone in danger and she said she appreciates those who have supported her. “If I had only known the extensive criminal history of the career criminal I would never have allowed him to be around myself, office and family.”

Asked about Morley’s statements, Sheriff Amaranto sounded incensed. “The truth will come out,” said Amaranto, who along with OSBI Agent John Jones interviewed Bever on Thursday after the U.S. Marshal’s Service apprehended the escapee at a residence in Cushing last Wednesday night.

Amaranto said he would like to say a lot more, but he also noted the case is still under investigation. “She’s the only one that’s blamed us” Amaranto said of Morley.

The sheriff said he’s let inmate trusties go out on work details for 30 years and has never had a situation like this arise.

Morely said she’s glad the U.S. Marshal’s service caught Bever. “I feel a little safer; I feel my family’s a little safer; my office feels safer,” Morley said.

Bever was sentenced to 10 years with the DOC in November for convictions of first-degree burglary, assault and battery and malicious injury to property, and was waiting to transfer to the DOC at the time of his escape, according to Steele’s affidavit.

In the first article written about the escape, the News-Capital asked the sheriff how an inmate with as many felony charges as Bever became a trusty. “We couldn’t find nobody who wanted to work,” Amaranto said. He said the county does not force inmates to work who do not want to work.

On Friday, Pittsburg County deputies transported Bever to the Pittsburg County Courthouse for an initial appearance arraignment on a felony escape charge filed after he fled the courthouse offices.

While Bever stood before Special Judge Donnita Wynn in belly irons and leg chains, Wynn told him he faces a sentence of from three years to life if convicted. Bever seemed a little unsure how to respond.“I don’t have to say nothing?” Bever said. “Do you wish to enter a plea of not guilty?” Wynn asked. “I guess so,” Bever replied.

Wynn set bond at $100,000 — then advised sheriff’s deputies that’s only a technicality and Bever is not to be released, since he is being held by the sheriff’s department for the Department of Corrections.

The judge set a preliminary hearing conference in the case for 9 a.m. on Friday.

As Bever left the courtroom for the short walk back to a patrol car, the News-Capital fired a few quick questions his way. How’d he get away from the courthouse offices so fast last December? “I ran my a-- off,” Bever said as he shuffled along in his shackles and chains. How’d he stay out of sight for the past month? “I got together with a girl,” he said. Did anybody help him escape?Nope, Bever said, he did it all himself. How did he manage to flee the courthouse offices? Did he crawl out a window? Bever shook his head, no. ”I walked right out the back door,” Bever said, as he stepped inside the patrol car for his return trip to the jail.

TvPoll Results: McMahan Should Resign

A new TvPoll taken for KWTV-Channel 9 and released today found that Oklahomans strongly feel that indicted Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan should resign.

When asked, “State Auditor Jeff McMahan was recently indicted for receiving excessive campaign contributions from an abstractor his office regulates. Should Jeff McMahan resign now?” 67 per cent of respondents (513) replied yes, 14.4% (110) replied no and 18.7% (143) were unsure.

Two other items of the poll, taken by Bill Shapard and Keith Gaddie, questioned voters about policy concerns related to the McMahan controversy and possible vacancy at the auditor’s office.

When asked, “Should legislation be changed to make it illegal for in office contributions?” 56 per cent (427) of Oklahomans replied yes, 24.2% (185) replied no and 20.1% (154) were unsure. Currently, Oklahoma statewide elected officials can legally accept campaign contributions from individuals whose businesses are regulated by their office.

The other question posed in this series asked, “When a statewide office comes vacant, how should a replacement be chosen?” 22 per cent (170) of Oklahomans believe that the these vacant offices should be appointed by the governor alone, 41.2% (315) believe that these offices should continue to be appointed by the governor but with the approval of the legislature, and 36.3% (280) believe that a special election should be called. Currently, the governor alone chooses a replacement when statewide offices become vacant. Oklahomans, however, feel that this process should incorporate approval of the legislature instead. For the questions and more details, go to http://tvpoll.com/.

Is Fred Thompson In...Or Out?

By Carl Cameron, On His Fox News Blog ~ As we have previously reported Fred Thomspon is in Tennessee visiting his 90 plus year old mother who is recovering from an illness

There will be no decisions today as Thompson mulls whether to carry on his bid for the presidency but he is expected to say something definitive tomorrow, probably first thing in the morning.

While no one in the campaign will be surprised if he withdraws they have no idea which way he will go and they do have some money if he should decide to continue.

Aides acknowledge the obvious: SC was very disappointing and 3rd place was not a momentum builder in their view.

On 8 Jan the campaign staff a took pay cut and Thompson knows he owes his staffers some certainty so they can plan for their future, especially younger staffers who need a paycheck.

Henry: 'Premature" To Discuss McMahan Office

By Jerry Bohnen, NewsRadio 1000 KTOK ~ Governor Brad Henry today said it's "too premature" to even discuss naming a possible replacement for indicted State Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan.

It's what he told KTOK's Peter J. Rudy today following Martin Luther King ceremonies at the State Capitol.

The governor pointed out that McMahan was indicted just last Friday and was too early to think about a successor. He had earlier called on McMahan to temporarily step aside to focus his energies on his legal defense.

Governor Henry admitted that Greg Sawyer, a high ranking administrator in the Regents for Higher Education, had contacted his office several months ago possibly seeking an appointment to replace McMahan should the auditor have to leave office.

But the governor said his chief of staff told Sawyer at the time that it was too soon to think about such an appointment.

Liebmann: Democrats Exhibit 'Political Hypocrisy'

House Democrats are playing in the big leagues of political hypocrisy, Rep. Guy Liebmann (pictured) said today as he called on Democrats to apply the same standards to themselves that they claim to want applied to Republicans.

Liebmann cited reports showing that former Governor David Walters is hosting a political fundraiser for Democrats Tuesday. An invitation has been sent to Capitol lobbyists asking them to attend and donate, Liebmann said.

He added that in 1993, Walters became the first governor in the state to be indicted when he was accused of eight felonies, including conspiracy and perjury. Walters pleaded guilty to one misdemeanor for violating state campaign law in a plea agreement.

"Now, Democrats are using him to host a fundraiser for themselves," Liebmann said in a news release. "Last week, House Minority Leader Danny Morgan criticized Republicans for simply attending a fundraiser at the home of an individual who has never even been charged, much less convicted, of election law violations. Furthermore, the fundraiser was for a presidential candidate and not themselves.

“Clearly their finger-pointing was only a diversionary tactic to avoid drawing attention to their own fundraiser,” said Liebmann, R-Oklahoma City. “Last week, Morgan said he was “floored” to hear of House Republicans attending a presidential fundraiser. Sadly, we are not surprised by this Democratic behavior and hypocrisy.

"It’s becoming clear that whenever Democrats like Morgan call for ethics reform, Oklahomans can be sure that while they claim to be concerned about everyone else’s ethics, they have little regard for their own," he added.

Fourth House Committee Member Returns Campaign Donation From Bradford Phillips Of Texas

A fourth member of the House Economic Development and Financial Services Committee, Rep. Ron Peters, Tulsa Republican, confirmed today that he has returned a campaign donation from Texas businessman Bradford Phillips, son of the controversial insurance industry figure Gene Phillips. And a fifth member may have returned a donation as well.

Asked by The McCarville Report Online if he had received a campaign donation from Bradford Phillips, Peters (pictured) replied, "Yes, $600."

Peters said he received the unsolicited donation "about a month ago" and returned it.

Committee Chairman Ron Peterson, R-Broken Arrow, has not yet responded to a similar TMRO inquiry. A House member, however, told TMRO that Peterson received a donation "much larger" than the $600 Peters received and returned. The member says Peterson also returned the donation.

Rep. Jeff Hickman, R-Dacoma, and Rep. Earl Sears, R-Bartlesville, both told the Tulsa World earlier that they received checks for $600, and Rep. George Faught, R-Muskogee, said he received $645. The contributions came in late December, apparently about the same time Peters received the donation to his campaign. They also returned the donations.

They are members of the House committee that approved legislation favorable to the Phillips family last spring.

The donations apparently came about the same time Gene Phillips hosted a mid-December fundraiser for presidential candidate Mike Huckabee in his Dallas home. House Speaker Lance Cargill, State GOP Chairman Gary Jones and other Republican members of the House attended.

Gene Phillips became a controversial figure during the tenure of former Insurance Commissioner Carroll Fisher. Fisher is serving a three-year prison sentence for embezzling $1,000 from his campaign and lying on a contributions report. He also is accused of accepting $25,000 and other gifts from Phillips, his family and business associates in exchange for favorable treatment of their insurance companies.

Henry's Spokesman Denies Auditor Search

By The Oklahoman's Tony Thornton on www.newsok.com ~ Governor Brad Henry's office is taking issue with a higher education official's statement concerning a potential vacancy in the state auditor's job.

Paul Sund, Henry's communications director, said no one representing Henry contacted Greg Sawyer about possibly filling state Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan's position.

A federal grand jury indicted McMahan and his wife Friday, accusing them of taking bribes from southeast Oklahoma businessman Steve Phipps in return for favorable treatment.

The indictment prompted some legislators to call for McMahan's resignation. Henry said McMahan should step aside during the criminal proceedings.

Sawyer, an associate vice chancellor for higher education, told The Oklahoman Friday he was approached weeks or months ago about replacing McMahan if the job came open. On Friday, he wouldn't name who contacted him, saying only it was someone representing the governor.

"We have contacted no one about the auditor's job, and anyone who suggests otherwise is not telling the truth," Sund wrote in an e-mail Saturday night.

"We are quite disappointed that someone would distort the facts and say that we contacted him about taking over the auditor's post when that never happened," Sund said.

Sawyer said Sunday the person who contacted him months ago about the potential opening was Tony Hutchison, Henry’s state finance director.

Sawyer said Hutchison told him, “If you’re interested, you need to let somebody know.” Sawyer said he then spoke twice to Gerald Adams, Henry’s chief of staff.

“I don’t want to get in a debate with Paul Sund or anybody. ... I understand they don’t want to make it look like they’re pushing Jeff out,” Sawyer said.

Thompson Stays In...For Now

From The Hill ~ Former Sen. Fred Thompson (Tenn.) did not withdraw from the race for the Republican nomination Saturday night, though many assumed anything less than a second place finish in South Carolina would prompt him to do so.

As he remained locked in a battle for third place with former Massachusetts Gov. Mitt Romney, Thompson addressed his supporters early Saturday night, and left them by saying: "Stay strong."

Even with the overwhelming majority of precincts still out, it was clear that Thompson would do no better than third as Sen. John McCain (Ariz.) and former Arkansas Gov. Mike Huckabee were stuck in a narrow fight for first.

Thompson's campaign has said for the past several weeks that a win or a strong finish in the Palmetto State was crucial to the ex-senator's hopes.

McMahan Under Increasing Pressure To Step Down?

Facing his first federal court appearance on nine criminal counts next Friday, Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan is under increasing pressure to take a leave of absence or resign, several sources tell The McCarville Report Online.

McMahan's attorney said last week he will not step aside despite calls from fellow Democrats Governor Brad Henry and Attorney General Drew Edmondson that he do so.

There is word that former Auditor and Inspector Clifton Scott is among those who have counseled McMahan, Scott's longtime protege, to at least take a leave of absence and turn the operations of his office over to a top deputy and his staff.

A veteran Democrat member of the State Senate, who asked not to be quoted by name, said he is aware of several other top Democrats who have told McMahan that, given the seriousness of the charges against him and his wife, Lori, he should step aside and devote his time to defending himself. The senator said he participated in a Saturday conference call in which it was suggested the participants and other Senate Democrats send McMahan a personal letter urging him to take a leave of absence; the senator said no decision on that suggestion was reached.

Another Democrat senator told TMRO he is not aware of such a conversation, although there have been "numerous conversations" among Democrat senators about the indictments and the allegations that McMahan misused the power of his office and took cash from abstract company owner Steve Phipps: "It's just so...disheartening," the senator said. "It's just another huge black eye."

Bloomberg Still Mulls Presidential Race

New York City Mayor Michael Bloomberg has been quietly polling and analyzing voting trends in every state as he contemplates launching a campaign for president as an Independent, it's reported today. Last Tuesday, his supporters launched a 50-state petition drive in an attempt to "draft" him into the race.

Media Expert: Public Wants Better TV Coverage

"The public wants a different kind of TV election coverage," declares Jeffrey M. McCall, professor of communication at DePauw University.

In today's Indianapolis Star, Dr. McCall writes, "A recent study by the Pew Research Center found that 80 percent of Americans want more coverage of where candidates stand on issues and more coverage of lesser-known candidates. This is not likely to happen any time soon. It is easier and cheaper to cover elections with a template that tells us where a particular prominent candidate is, which celebrity appeared with the candidate, the latest poll numbers, and who feels momentum. It is more sensational to show and analyze Hillary's teary eyes than detail her policy initiatives."

Hillary Clinton Wins Nevada Caucus Vote

Hillary Clinton, who won the January 8 New Hampshire Democratic primary, leveraged support from women and seniors to edge out Barack Obama in today's Nevada Democratic Caucus. With 98 percent of caucus sites reporting, Clinton had 51 percent and Barack Obama had 45 percent. John Edwards had 4 percent.

McCain Wins South Carolina; Duncan Hunter Drops Out, Fred Thompson May Be Next

With 82 percent of precincts reporting in the South Carolina primary, Senator John McCain had 33 percent and Mike Huckabee, 29 percent. Fred Thompson had 16 percent, Mitt Romney had 15 percent. Ron Paul was polling at 4 percent and Rudy Giuliani at 2 percent.

Duncan Hunter, fairing poorly in both Nevada and South Carolina on Saturday, dropped out of the race, citing his failure to gain "traction" in the GOP contests. Thompson, who had said he was "drawing a line in the sand" and had to win South Carolina, might be about to follow Hunter in exiting the race. Thompson has not been a factor in any state thus far.

The win for McCain is a big boost going into the Florida primary January 29 and Super Tuesday February 5, when 24 states hold a variety of primaries and caucuses for both parties. There has been no breakaway frontrunner in the GOP race. Huckabee won the January 3 Iowa caucuses, while McCain won the January 8 New Hampshire primary. Romney won lower profile contests in Wyoming, Michigan and Nevada, but leads the delegate count.

McMahan Accusations Latest In A Long String

1975 ~ David Hall. Governor. Democrat. Federal racketeering, extortion. Guilty.

1993 ~ David Walters. Governor. Democrat. Campaign funny money. Guilty.

1995 ~ Claudette Henry. Treasurer. Republican. Assistant Treasurer Patricia Whitehead, federal conspiracy, bribery and money laundering. Guilty.

2003 ~ Gene Stipe. State Senator. Democrat. Federal campaign funny money plus. Guilty.

2003 ~ Mike Mass. State Representative. Democrat. Federal campaign funny money. Guilty.

2006 ~ Carroll Fisher. Insurance Commissioner. Democrat. Corruption. Guilty.

2008 ~ Jeff McMahan. Auditor and Inspector. Democrat. Federal campaign funny money plus abuse of official powers. Accused.

Romney Wins Nevada In A Walk

Mitt Romney won the Nevada Republican Caucus today in a walk, far outdistancing John McCain and Ron Paul. While results still are being tallied, Romney's lead of 51-14 percent indicates an overwhelming win for him. Results of the Democratic Caucus are expected later today.

Graphic courtesy Fox News.

Oklahoman: Cargill, Four Other Legislators Have Failed To File Personal Income Tax Returns

The Oklahoman reports in its Sunday edition that Republican House Speaker Lance Cargill and four other legislators have failed to file income tax returns and have been warned by the Oklahoma Tax Commission they are not in compliance with a state law that requires state employees who repeatedly fail to file state income tax returns be fired.

Reporters Nolan Clay and Randy Ellis report that Cargill failed to file income tax returns for the last two years.

They also report that Republican Rep. Don Armes of Faxon failed to file returns for 2005 and 2006; Democrat Rep. Ryan McMullen of Burns Flat failed to file in 2001 and 2006; Democrat Rep. Jabar Shumate of Tulsa failed to file in 1999, 2001, 2004, 2005 and 2006; Senator Connie Johnson, Oklahoma City Democrat, failed to file a "recent" return.

All were notified by warning letters from the Tax Commission sent about 10 days ago.

Cargill said he rushed to complete federal and state income tax returns and sent them in on Friday after receiving his warning letter. "I'm human, I made a mistake," Cargill told The Oklahoman reporters. "There's nobody more upset over it than I am because I cost myself money because I was entitled to refunds."

Former Head Of Auditor's Abstract Division Identified As Key Player In Alleged Illegal Acts

The former head of Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan's abstract division, Tim Arbaugh (pictured), has been identified as a key player in arranging alleged illegal acts on behalf of McMahan and his benefactor, southeastern Oklahoma abstract company owner Steve Phipps.

The indictment against McMahan and his wife refers to Arbaugh as "schemer number two," but does not identify him by name. Phipps was "schemer number one." Based on descriptions of their actions in the indictments, and previous knowledge of Arbaugh's involvement in the operation of McMahan's office, his role was determined. The indictment details several alleged illegal acts by "schemer number two" that point to Arbaugh's identity; first was his role in arranging a 2002 campaign fundraiser and second was his role in orchestrating the recording of McMahan's campaign jingle. Arbaugh was known to have been involved in both.

Arbaugh, who was fired by Democrat McMahan in March after allegations of straw donors to his campaign drew attention, operates a bed and breakfast in Guthrie, The Victorian Garden Inn, with his wife. Federal investigators, a source claims, have questioned Arbaugh about any financial involvement Phipps may have had in the operation of the bed and breakfast by the Arbaughs. They acquired it in 1994, records show.

Last April, The Oklahoman's Tony Thornton reported that Arbaugh was involved in successful efforts to secure state money to buy a train owned by disgraced former State Senator Gene Stipe, Phipps' abstract company empire partner.

The indictment alleges that Arbaugh was employed by McMahan at Phipps' insistence, and had to be retained in that job if McMahan wanted Phipps' financial help in his 2006 reelection campaign.

McMahan and his wife, Lori, now face a 9-count federal grand jury indictment alleging they conspired with Phipps, took illegal campaign donations and committed mail fraud.

Phipps and his abstract company partner, Stipe, operated a string of abstract companies across the state. As auditor, McMahan was charged by law with regulating the abstract industry. That law was changed after the ties between McMahan and Phipps became clear.

Arbaugh, who has not been indicted, allegedly arranged for some McMahan campaign expenses to be paid for illegally by Phipps, was McMahan's agent in using the powers of the office to delay a competing abstractor's application to operate to help Phipps, was McMahan's agent in seeking cash from Phipps so the McMahans could attend the Democratic National Convention in Boston, and, at McMahan's direction, misused the power of the office to benefit Phipps in a lawsuit with Stipe over ownership of their abstract companies.

Official Confirms Inquiry About Auditor's Post

The associate vice chancellor of finance and budget for the State Regents for Higher Education, Greg Sawyer, confirms he has been approached by a representative of Governor Brad Henry about being appointed auditor and inspector.

Confirmation of that comes after Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan and his wife, Lori, were indicted by a federal grand jury on multiple charges. McMahan's attorney says he will not step down and plans to continue in his post despite calls from Henry, Attorney General Drew Edmondson and others that he step aside or resign.

The contact with Sawyer is reported in The Oklahoman by Tony Thornton.

South Carolina GOP Primary Today

South Carolina blogger D. Martyn Lloyd-Morgan offers thoughts on the race at http://www.thelibertysphere.blogspot.com/.

Southern Political Report has a late, new poll that indicates it will be a horse race.

Edmondson Says McMahan Should Step Down

Attorney General Drew Edmondson said today that indicted Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan, a fellow Democrat, should step down: "Anytime an elected official falls under criminal charges related to the discharge of his duties, his ability to do his job will surely be affected. In the interests of his office and the state, I encourage the auditor and inspector to step down from his post and focus his energies on his defense.

"I understand an indictment is only an allegation and he is innocent until proven guilty," Edmondson said. "These indictments go to the core of his functions. It is an office where the public has to put a great deal of faith, just as ours is."

Indictments Allege McMahans Misused Power

The indictments against Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan and his wife, Lori, allege the couple repeatedly used McMahan's official powers to benefit abstract company owner Steve Phipps and to protect Phipps from other abstractors who would have been competitors had McMahan allowed them to operate and to help Phipps in a lawsuit with his abstract company partner, former State Senator Gene Stipe of McAlester. As state auditor, McMahan at the time regulated the abstract industry.

Read the indictments here.

Danny Morgan Reacts To McMahan Indictment

Democratic House Leader Danny Morgan issued this statement this afternoon:

“House Democrats oppose any type of political corruption. We think it was said best by U.S. Attorney Sheldon Sperling that these practices are unacceptable. Public interests should never be awarded to the highest bidder. We, as public officials, should hold ourselves to the strictest of standards. Special interests receiving preferential treatment violate the public trust, and these practices shatter the integrity of our democratic system.

“Ethics reform will be a top priority of the House Democrats this Session. Unethical and illegal fundraising practices are absolutely intolerable. Our caucus will push for expansion of the Ethics Commission’s power to eliminate any corruption that exists. We hope House Republicans will join us to push for true and meaningful ethics reform. Oklahomans deserve a government that works for all of its citizens not just the special interests.”

Gary Jones: McMahan Should Step Down

Republican State Chairman Gary Jones issued this statement: "Today is a disappointing day for Oklahoma with the nine count federal indictment of State Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan and his wife. The office of State Auditor is one that requires a person that will conduct themselves in a manner that is above reproach. I agree with Governor Henry the Auditor should step down immediately until this situation is resolved."

Jones opposed McMahan in 2002 and 2006, losing both races.

Read Steve Fair's interview with Jones here.

House Speaker Lance Cargill called the indictments "terribly unfortunate."

Henry: McMahan Should Step Aside

Governor Henry said today it would be "appropriate" for Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan to take an administrative leave of his office following his indictment by a federal grand jury. "Before I pass judgment, I want to review all the available information and hear the auditor's public response to the charges," the governor said. "In the meantime, however, I believe it would be appropriate for the auditor to step aside on administrative leave and turn over the office's day-to-day operations to his chief deputy while the allegations are resolved."

McMahans Got $10,000 In Cash, Indictment Alleges

The federal indictments returned against Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan and his wife, Lori, allege Mrs. McMahan was given an envelope with $10,000 cash in it by abstract company owner Steve Phipps.

Both Jeff McMahan and his wife, a Tecumseh schoolteacher, face the same nine counts: one conspiracy count, six mail fraud counts and two counts of violating the Travel Act to promote bribery. U. S. Attorney Sheldon Sperling (pictured) outlined the charges.

The maximum total prison time possible for the nine counts is 135 years.

The Travel Act allegations concern trips the McMahans allegedly took on Phipps' tab. One trip was to New Orleans in the summer of 2003; the other was to Boston for the 2004 Democratic National Convention.

During the New Orleans trip, Phipps gave Lori McMahan — with her husband's knowledge — a ring that cost $1,640, the indictment alleges.

The indictment actually mentions two other trips allegedly paid for by Phipps: a fishing trip involving McMahan and his teenage son; and a second trip to New Orleans by Jeff and Lori McMahan in October 2004.

Phipps also contributed, either directly or indirectly, $77,600 to McMahan's 2002 campaign through straw donors, according to the indictment.

In addition, Phipps handed an envelope containing $10,000 to Lori McMahan on Oct. 22, 2002, the indictment states. The cash exchange allegedly occurred at a Shawnee restaurant. Lori McMahan told her husband she and Phipps had business to conduct, the indictment states.

Gov. Brad Henry said today it would be "appropriate" for McMahan to take an administrative leave of his office. "Before I pass judgment, I want to review all the available information and hear the auditor's public response to the charges," the governor said. "In the meantime, however, I believe it would be appropriate for the auditor to step aside on administrative leave and turn over the office's day-to-day operations to his chief deputy while the allegations are resolved."

McMAHAN, WIFE INDICTED

By Tony Thornton, The Oklahoman ~ A federal grand jury indicted state Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan and his wife today, accusing them of accepting improper cash and gifts from a southeast Oklahoma businessman.

The nine-count indictment alleges Democrats Jeff and Lori McMahan received jewelry, trips and excessive contributions to Jeff McMahan's first campaign in 2002.

In return, the auditor granted special favors to former abstract company owner Steve Phipps, according to the indictment.

McMahan's office regulated the abstract industry until Jan. 1. The Legislature last year created a separate agency for that purpose amid reports of McMahan's ties to Phipps.

The charges against both Jeff McMahan, 47, and Lori McMahan include racketeering, conspiracy and fraud.

(The conspiracy began in February 2002 and ran through August 2007, the indictment alleges. A prosecutor said the object of the scheme was for the McMahans to receive bribes and gratuities in exchange for favorable treatment.)

Read all the article at http://newsok.com/article/3194419/1200680777.

McAlester News-Capital: Francis Stipe's Attorney Wants To See Mike Mass Pre-sentencing Report

From The McAlester News-Capital ~ The attorney for indicted McAlester businessman Francis Stipe wants to see the pre-sentencing report of former District 17 state Rep. Mike Mass, of Hartshorne.

McAlester attorney Warren Gotcher, who is part of Stipe’s defense team, contends part of the report could be pertinent to his case.

Mass pleaded guilty in April to a single count of mail fraud in connection with an investigation by Eastern District of Oklahoma U.S. Attorney Sheldon Sperling’s office.

U.S. District Judge Ron White recently granted a request by Mass’ attorney to delay his sentencing so Mass can testify against Francis Stipe.Stipe currently faces a Feb. 4 trial date at the Eastern District of Oklahoma U.S Courthouse in Muskogee. He and his brother, former state Sen. Gene Stipe, of McAlester, were indicted by a federal grand jury in October on felony counts of conspiracy, mail fraud, witness tampering and illegal monetary transactions.

One of the four counts in a grand jury indictment against Stipe accuses him of witness tampering by purchasing the mortgage on Mass’ home.

In court documents filed this week at the federal courthouse, Gotcher said he’s asked whether Mass will be a witness in the case and federal prosecutors confirmed he will.

“At that point due to newspaper articles indicating that a sentencing date has been continued so that Mike Mass may cooperate with the government, the defendant (Stipe) requested among other things a pre-sentence report,” Gotcher said in court documents.

“The government believes the report is confidential and cannot produce it for the defendant,” Gotcher said. He said the attorneys involved in case “have conferred in good faith and cannot resolve the matter for themselves.” However, Gotcher contends that the federal government’s pre-sentence report on Mass could contain exculpatory information, or information which could help Stipe’s case, which Gotcher said Stipe and his attorneys should be allowed examine.

“The news media indicated that prior to sentencing Mike Mass decided to cooperate with the government,” Gotcher said. “The government would have Mass’ pre-sentence report. This report would have Mass’ sentencing range. The time to do would or could have changed his mind about cooperation.

“The report would also detail his involvement in the scheme to be bribed by Steve Phipps and his previous agreement, if any, to cooperate,” Gotcher said.

Phipps, the estranged business partner of Gene Stipe, has also pleaded guilty to mail fraud in connection with the grand jury probe.

If the court won’t order federal prosecutors to hand Mass’ pre-sentence report over to the defense, then Gotcher asked the court to examine the report and order that part of the report that is exculpatory material to be given to the defense.

The information may be useful in cross-examining Mass, Gotcher said.

Routinely in federal court, a pre-sentence report is conducted by U.S. probation officers prior to sentencing.

Stipe currently faces a Feb. 4 trial on a four-count federal indictment of mail fraud, conspiracy, witness tampering and illegal monetary transactions. Gotcher has asked that the trial be continued for a second time and White has set the matter for a hearing on Jan. 30.

Gotcher asked for the continuance because he said has recently received some additional 2,000 pages of discovery documents. Discovery refers to information which attorneys must share regarding evidence they plan to present during a trial.

Sperling told the News-Capital he won’t object to Gotcher’s latest motion for a continuance. He noted the decision will be up to the court.

Fox News: McCain Leads In South Carolina

While Republican John McCain remains the front-runner in the South Carolina presidential primary, the outcome is up in the air as many voters are still considering their options, according to a FOX News poll released Friday.

Nearly one out of five likely Republican primary voters in South Carolina says they are unsure which candidate they will support on Saturday. Mitt Romney won the Michigan primary earlier in the week, while McCain won the New Hampshire primary and Mike Huckabee won in Iowa, leaving the Republican Party without a clear favorite.

The new FOX News poll shows McCain holds onto his lead in South Carolina by capturing the support of 27 percent followed by Huckabee at 20 percent and Romney in third with 15 percent. Fred Thompson, who was hoping to perform well in a state neighboring his home state of Tennessee, receives 11 percent, up just two points from earlier in the month.

World: Edmondson Wants Audit Of ME's Office

By Mick Hinton, Tulsa World ~ Attorney General Drew Edmondson has requested an investigative audit of the Office of Chief Medical Examiner, officials confirmed Friday.

A letter dated Thursday seeking the audit stated that the attorney general had received a complaint and conducted an interview, concluding “that an investigative audit should be conducted.”

”Because this involves an investigation which could result in criminal charges being filed, this audit and its results are to be kept confidential until the investigation has been completed,” states the letter written by Edmondson’s first assistant, Tom Gruber.

Rep. Lucky Lamons, D-Tulsa, said Friday he had received information he felt could be of a criminal nature and “went straight to the attorney general.”

Questions have been raised about the management of Chief Medical Examiner Jeffery Gofton and his assistant, Kevin Rowland.

Lamons and other Tulsa area lawmakers have been concerned after Gofton said he intended to halt autopsies being performed at the Tulsa office, which concerned local law enforcement and the Tulsa County district attorney’s office. Gofton backed away from his plan after complaints from law enforcement, lawmakers and others.

Mike Brown Wants Ethics Commission Expanded To 'Eliminate Any Corruption That Exists'

“Oklahomans should be concerned about the facts that Chairman of the Democratic Party Ivan Holmes brought up today,” said Representative Mike Brown, D-Tahlequah. “House Republicans seem to be under a lot of investigation and scrutiny. This could be an arduous task for an under funded Ethics Commission whose staff is already stretched thin, and resources limited. The House Democrats will push for expansion of the Ethics Commission power to eliminate any corruption that exists. Accepting bribes is completely unethical and destroys the dignity of the Oklahoma House of Representatives.”

“House Democrats have made ethics reform one of their top priorities for the upcoming Session," Brown said. "Unethical and illegal fundraising and spending practices will not be tolerated. Oklahomans deserve to have a fair and ethical government they can depend on. Without the result of full bipartisanship and support on this issue there will be no change."

See Holmes' statement below.

House Faces Mountain Of New Legislation

At the conclusion of the bill-filing process on January 17, the last day for state representatives to file legislation, 1,206 new bills, 57 joint resolutions, 10 concurrent resolutions and one simple resolution had been filed in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. Last year, members of the Housed filed 1,195 bills, 45 joint resolution and 11 concurrent resolutions. House records indicate that 909 of those measures carried over and could receive a vote during the 2008 session in addition to all newly filed legislation.

John Ford Calls For Lottery Privatization

While the people of Oklahoma voted in favor of a statewide lottery in 2004, it has consistently failed to produce the amount of education revenue supporters had claimed it would and as a result, Senator John Ford said today he has filed legislation that could result in the privatization of the lottery.

“I did not support the lottery, and I’ve never bought a single Oklahoma Lottery ticket, but in 2004, the majority of voters said this is what they wanted and I respect that,” Ford said. “However, many people voted yes believing it would result in a large boost for education funding. We all know that hasn’t happened. Since the lottery is now a reality that has been mandated by the citizens of Oklahoma, perhaps at the very least, we should look at privatization as a way to run the lottery more efficiently, and get the government out of the gambling business.”

Ford’s legislation calls for the creation of an eight-person Oklahoma Lottery Asset Review Board to be chaired by the Lt. Governor, and would include the Attorney General, the State Treasurer, the Chancellor for Higher Education, the State Superintendent of Education, the Career Tech’s executive director, as well as appointees by the Senate Pro Tempore and the Speaker of the House. The panel would have the responsibility to examine options for privatizing the lottery. Ford said the commission would expire by December 31, 2008.

The board would be charged with studying various options and defining what provisions must be included in a privatization agreement to maximize potential income to education, Ford said. The Oklahoma Asset Review Board would then seek bids from approved private sector companies or other private entities through a competitive and fully transparent process.

“When the bids are returned, it will be the responsibility of the board to determine if any of the bids will enhance the value to education while still meeting the intent of our citizens when creating the education lottery,” Ford said.

If six of the eight board members agree on a winning bid, they will forward it to the Governor for his review and potential final approval. The Governor would then have 14 days to approve the bid. The lottery would then be transferred to out of state operations and awarded to the private operator under the terms and conditions of the agreement. If the Governor does not approve the recommended bid, the lottery will continue under its current state management and operation.

Ford also strongly emphasized that the state must always maintain ongoing oversight of the lottery so that failure to meet the predetermined concession terms and standards will result in Oklahoma revoking the lottery from the concessionaire.

If approved, all net proceeds from the concession will be deposited into the Oklahoma Education Lottery Trust Fund, as is the case today. Ford emphasized that this bill does not change the current distribution percentages out of this fund that are currently in effect.

Holmes Accuses Republicans Of 'Pay For Play'

Oklahoma Democratic Party Chairman Ivan Holmes is accusing State House Republicans of "pay for play."

The accusation came in a news release from Holmes that centered on news reports detailing that House Speaker Lance Cargill and several other Republican House members attended a fundraiser at the Dallas home of Gene Phillips, controversial businessman who is linked to the scandal that resulted in the impeachment of former Insurance Commissioner Carrol Fisher and his resignation from office.

"According to reports from the Tulsa World, Phillip's son attempted to change a law (in 2007) that would have favored his insurance company. The amendment was carried by Republican Majority Floor Leader Greg Piatt, R- Ardmore. Piatt received a $5,000 contribution from Phillip's son in exchange for him carrying the bill," Homes said.

"Three Republican lawmakers have confirmed that they will be returning contributions from Phillips. The three Republicans are members of a House Committee that approved legislation favorable to the Phillips family last spring. Why haven't all Republican House members returned contributions they received from Phillips?" Holmes asked.

Republican representatives who attended the Dallas fundraiser besides Cargill, Holmes said, were Rep. Ron Peterson, R-Tulsa; Gus Blackwell, R-Goodwell; Mike Jackson, R-Enid; Rob Johnson, R-Kingfisher; Colby Schwartz, R-Yukon; and T.W. Shannon, R-Lawton.

"Not only did these Republicans attend a fundraiser at the home of a person who is in the business of bribing elected officials but they carried his dirty water in the Legislature," said Holmes. (Editor's Note: Gene Phillips has not been convicted of bribery; he once faced a federal bribery indictment and was acquited.)

"An investigation into these activities needs to be conducted immediately. I fear that the same people that bribed the convicted former Insurance Commissioner are now contributing to House Republicans.

"Republicans in the House of Representatives need to clean up their own House" said Holmes. "Since Republicans have gained Republican control, they have managed to come under investigation by the Ethics Commission and taken numerous contributions from businessmen and lobbyists.

"This pay for play attitude needs to stop. Oklahomans will see through their unethical behavior and tactics and elect a Democratic Majority in 2008 that truly cares about the needs of working Oklahomans," Holmes said.

Coburn, Sullivan Want Explanation From FEMA

Senator Tom Coburn and Congressman John Sullivan of Tulsa want the Federal Emergency Management Agency to explain how it makes disaster aid decisions, such as its denial of help to Oklahomans with uninsured losses in last month's ice storm. Coburn and Sullivan wrote FEMA Administrator R. David Paulison Thursday asking that the agency comply with a new law that seeks greater transparency in FEMA decisions.

Debris Hauling Update: Henry To Extend Waiver

A spokesman for Governor Brad Henry says the governor expects to sign another waiver to exempt big trucks from certain state permits so they can continue hauling ice storm debris. The first waiver was signed December 10th and expired last week.

Oklahoma City radio station KTOK reported earlier today that since the original waiver expired, Oklahoma Highway Patrol troopers have issued warning tickets to out-of-state contractors who didn't have the permits, which cost about $7,500.

Senate's Cups Runneth Over

Today was the deadline for members of the State Senate to file legislation for the 2008 session, the second of the 51st Legislature. By 5 p.m., 969 bills and 22 joint resolutions had been filed, with staff members working into the evening filing the final measures. There were also 806 Senate bills and joint resolutions carried over from the 2007 session. In 2007, the Senate considered 1,130 new Senate bills as well as 32 Senate Joint Resolutions.

Polls Shows Obama-Clinton Tie, McCain Ahead

WASHINGTON (Reuters) - Barack Obama has erased a once-substantial deficit to climb into a virtual tie with Hillary Clinton in the Democratic presidential race, according to a new national Reuters/Zogby poll.

Among Republicans, John McCain charged to the front of a shifting presidential field, shooting past Mike Huckabee and a fading Rudy Giuliani as the opening contests of the 2008 White House campaign dramatically reshaped the races in both parties.

Heading into potentially crucial contests in Nevada, South Carolina and Florida, the campaign to choose candidates for the November election to succeed President George W. Bush has shown deep volatility.

Bill Clinton Plans Oklahoma Campaign Stop

Former President Bill Clinton will be in Oklahoma later this month to campaign for his wife ahead of the February 5 Democratic presidential primary election, it was announced today.

Clinton will speak at the University of Oklahoma on January 30 and will be the star attraction at a fundraising event, said Betty McElderry, Democratic national committeewoman from Oklahoma.

Plans for the fundraiser and speech were revealed Thursday morning by Tamera Luzzatto, Hillary Clinton's chief of staff, during a breakfast meeting. The meeting was held at the home of Mike and Susan Turpen. Hosts included two former Oklahoma first ladies, Donna Nigh and Rhonda Walters, and Secretary of State Susan Savage.

Debris Haulers Face Costly Permits Or Tickets

By Jerry Bohnen, NewsRadio 1000 KTOK ~ Oklahoma City leaders face a new worry as they race to remove tens of thousands of tons of ice storm debris from December---an executive order signed by the governor and waiving requirements for big trucks expired last week.

Now the Highway Patrol's warning the out-of-state contractors that they have to get $7,500 permits or face tickets.

"The Highway Patrol's been at some of the land fills and been issuing warning tickets to the contractors because there are certain permits they don't have," explained Jim Lewellyn, a Projects Manager with the Oklahoma City Public Works Department. "There's a permit required and they need to get that if they're going to continue to operate in the state."

Acting governor Jari Askins signed the original executive order, #2007-50 on December 10th, 2007 and waived many of the requirements on big trucks so utility companies and others could assist in the state of emergency.

While the executive order was originally aimed at out-of-state utilities, many of whom have left Oklahoma, the debris contractors remain and their work won't be finished for months. The executive order expired on January 8th, 2008 and now Lewellyn and others worry there won't be an extension. If it's not? "Then it'll be a big problem," he admitted in an interview with KTOK. "If it's not, we'll be talking to whoever we can to get it taken care of because we sure don't want our contractors to leave."

Captain Chris West with the Department of Public Safety maintains that troopers are not targeting the debris haulers. "It's not gonna be all bets are off and we're gonna out there and hammer Oklahomans." West says the concern is the safety of motorists on the roadways and troopers won't target the truckers unless they see a violation.

Hickman, Sears, Faught Return Phillips Money

Mick Hinton of the Tulsa World and The Associated Press report today that State Reps. Jeff Hickman, Earl Sears and George Faught are returning contributions given by the son of a man linked to convicted former state Insurance Commissioner Carroll Fisher. The donations were given by Bradford Phillips who is the son of Texas insurance company owner Gene Phillips.

Here's the essence of Hinton's story: Three Republican lawmakers confirmed Wednesday that they will be returning unsolicited campaign contributions from Bradford Phillips, the son of controversial Texas insurance company owner Gene Phillips.

Rep. Jeff Hickman, R-Dacoma (left), and Rep. Earl Sears, R-Bartlesville (center), both said they received checks for $600, and Rep. George Faught, R-Muskogee (right), received $645.

The contributions came in late December.

The three are members of a House committee that approved legislation favorable to the Phillips family last spring.

Faught said that when he learned about the controversy surrounding the Phillips family, he decided to return the check.

Sears, who had cashed the check, took $600 out of his campaign Tuesday and sent it to Phillips.

Hickman said he was mailing the check back Wednesday. "I returned the contribution; I just felt uncomfortable," Faught said.

Read more at http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/article.aspx?articleID=20080117_1_A9_hThem76744.

Dirty Tricks Allegations Fly In SC GOP Primary

From Fox News ~ With a wide-open Republican race and South Carolina known for its hardscrabble politics, it was only a matter of time until accusations of dirty tricks began flying among the GOP candidates.

The fresh salvo started up Wednesday almost immediately after Mitt Romney’s Michigan primary victory the night before. Romney’s win added to his Wyoming victory to put him on top of the raw and delegate vote counts and a slight step ahead of rivals John McCain and Mike Huckabee, who have won one state apiece, New Hampshire and Iowa, respectively.

While Romney has ceded that he’s unlikely to win South Carolina’s primary on Saturday, predicting a McCain victory instead, Huckabee began circulating a statement accusing Romney backers of smearing him through The Club for Growth — an economic watchdog that has aggressively gone after the former Arkansas governor for raising taxes in his state.

Huckabee’s campaign released a list of seven Romney donors it claims have given at least $585,000 to The Club for Growth.

“What does $585,000 buy you?” a campaign statement asks. “It bought Mitt Romney backers a smear job against Mike Huckabee orchestrated by Beltway insiders.”

The Club for Growth held its own press conference Wednesday to slam what it calls Huckabee’s “liberal economic record,” but the blast against Romney is particularly poignant, not only because he is a successful businessman who has funded a good portion of his own campaign, but because the former Massachusetts governor has been running on the theme that Washington is broken and must be fixed by someone outside the I-495 loop.

A chief component of Romney’s outsider argument has been to portray McCain as one of Washington’s most stubborn and everlasting institutions. Taking the hit from Huckabee while tailoring his economic revival message — so successful in Michigan — to his South Carolina audience, Romney on Wednesday likened McCain to a Democrat because of his opposition to President Bush’s tax cuts.

Senator McCain voted against tax cuts “with rhetoric that spoke a bit of what you would hear from the Democratic playbook,” Romney told voters in Bluffton. “They said it was a tax cut for the rich … that rhetoric is simply a Democratic pathway that I think is unfortunate.”

Speaking in Spartanburg, S.C., McCain, who is now leading in national polls, tried to keep things civil after announcing the endorsement of conservative Sen. Tom Coburn of Oklahoma. He predicted a win and earlier appealed directly to reservists and retired military members in Greenville, emphasizing the need to overhaul veterans’ health care.

Elsewhere, however, a group of McCain supporters known as the South Carolina Truth Squad issued a statement condemning reported push-polling efforts by Colorado-based Common Sense Issues, which has been allegedly distorting McCain’s record on abortion. The pro-Huckabee organization ignored early pleas by their candidate to stop previous push polls.

“Allow me to set the record straight,” South Carolina Attorney General Henry McMaster, a member of the Truth Squad, said in the statement. “In the U.S. Senate, John McCain has been an unwavering voice for the rights of the unborn. He has fought, without concern of political consequence, to eliminate wasteful spending in Washington. And John McCain understands that solving the problem of illegal immigration requires that we secure our borders first.”

McCain’s camp set up the Truth Squad to counter the kind of negative campaigning that unraveled his 2000 presidential bid. As a result of the push-polling, the Arizona senator said he has had to push extra hard to emphasize his anti-abortion stance.

“We know that phone calls are being made and they say I’m not pro-life, so I just have to remind people of my 24 years, my voting record and my commitment to the unborn,” he told reporters.

But McCain’s challenges in South Carolina Wednesday didn’t end there. As he spoke to voters in Spartanburg, McCain fended off protesters who demonstrated against his position in 2000 to let Palmetto Staters decide whether to move the confederate flag off the South Carolina Capitol building. McCain later criticized his own position as lacking integrity.

Unlike in 2000, however, McCain this time had the support of his audience, who rose and gave him a standing ovation for saying he was proud of their choice to move the flag from the Statehouse to a memorial on state grounds.

Meanwhile, former Tennessee Sen. Fred Thompson, who has yet to win a contest and has marked South Carolina as a line in the sand, also accused Huckabee’s backers of using push polling to distort his record on illegal immigration and abortion.

Thompson, who has repeatedly stated that he must do very well in South Carolina, decried rumors being floated that Huckabee’s campaign had asserted the former Tennessee senator was only staying in the race to pull votes from Huckabee and help his old friend, McCain.

“It’s an attempt by the Huckabee campaign to get me to attack McCain so they don’t have to,” Thompson said. “Huckabee hasn’t said anything about McCain … mighty strange that McCain is leading the race and their focus is on me … just kind of South Carolina politics.”

Huckabee’s national campaign chairman Ed Rollins responded that he has no idea where the rumor came from. But he did not shy away from belittling Thompson’s campaign.

“He had one good night and one good debate,” Rollins said, referring to Thompson’s aggressive performance at a FOX News debate in South Carolina last week. “The bottom line is if you don’t come in first or second somewhere along the line, and your money’s running out, it’s awful hard to stay in this race. Now, obviously, Fred can stay as long as he wants … but from our perspective we’re running our campaign. It’s a tough enough drill out here to all go forward without being accused of backroom manipulation.”

Wesselhoft Wants DNA Sample Expansion

Legislation filed by state Rep. Paul Wesselhöft could help police solve many currently unresolved crimes, he said today.

Wesselhöft has filed House Bill 2603, which would require all individuals arrested on felony charges to provide a DNA sample for a state database. The legislation will be called, "Katie's Law," in honor of a New Mexico crime victim. In August 2003, 22-year-old Katie Sepich was brutally attacked outside her home in New Mexico. She was raped and strangled, and her body was set on fire and abandoned at an old dump site. No suspects were immediately identified, but skin and blood samples were found under her fingernails, leaving the attacker's DNA sample. The DNA samples were sent to the national DNA database system (CODIS).

However, most states do not allow law enforcement to take DNA samples for felony arrests, making it more difficult to identify suspects through the national database.

"If there was a swab of the person who killed Katie, they would now be in prison and unable to harm someone else," said Wesselhöft, R-Moore. "By expanding the DNA database, we can catch more bad guys who would otherwise remain free."

Currently, all states require DNA for felony convictions, but 26 states have considered bills to require DNA samples from individuals arrested on felony charges, including Texas and Kansas."DNA profiles generated by crime labs contain no private medical or genetic information. This protects privacy," said Wesselhöft. "There has been no instance of misuse of the DNA database. But there is evidence of its success--already the data has been used to solve nearly 50,000 crimes nationwide, according to the FBI."

The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation supports Wesselhöft's bill.

"We have a state-wide DNA database and the more people and samples we have in it the more crimes we can solve," said Jessica Brown, OSBI public information officer. "Many states have already done this-it's a good situation for everyone. It will help us solve more crimes and prevent other crimes from happening, and it will help victims' families find closure."

Supporters of the legislation note that many criminals fall through the cracks and would not be captured if not for DNA databases. For example (according to www.katieslaw.org), California native Chester Turner was first arrested for assault with a deadly weapon in 1987 but was not convicted. Through the years, Turner was arrested a total of 21 times before he was ever formally convicted of any crime. But in 2002, when he was convicted of rape, his DNA was taken and found to match 12 other unsolved rape and murder cases. The first of these victims was raped in March 1987. Had DNA been taken upon Turner's first felony arrest, officials could have potentially saved 11 lives.

"This should be an easy measure to pass," said Wesselhöft. "It is a measure that could prevent what happened to Katie from happening again by identifying criminals based on DNA before they are able to strike again."Wesselhöft said he has had conversations with Katie's mother; and she expressed her gratitude toward Oklahoma in considering her crusade to protect people.

Cargill Sets GOP Tax Policy Goals

Legislation that will further cut the state’s income tax and give first-time home buyers a tax-free savings account are among the tax policy goals House Speaker Lance Cargill and GOP leaders will be supporting this session.

In a press roundtable Wednesday, Cargill unveiled his American Dream Act, which will allow first-time home buyers to save money tax-free to go toward a down payment on a home. The legislation will encourage responsible savings as people move toward home ownership.

“Oklahoma has been mostly insulated from the housing crunch seen across the country, but we need to do more to help Oklahomans save up for a down payment so they aren’t forced into risky loans they cannot afford,” said Cargill.

He also unveiled plans to ask for slightly more than a quarter percent cut in the income tax this year, but will do so in a way that it will not have a financial impact on the 2009 fiscal year budget.

In order to do that, Cargill and House fiscal staff will be looking through the over 480 special interest tax credits and finding ones that can be eliminated. The cost of cutting the income tax will be offset by the amount saved in the eliminated tax credits for special interests.

“Tax cuts should be for all Oklahomans, not a select few,” said Cargill.

Oklahoma’s Rainy Day fund totals $575 million, the largest in the country as a percentage of the state budget. Overall taxes paid to the state by taxpayers are also estimated to grow by at least $200 million this year.

“With a large savings account and significant growth revenue, taxpayers deserve a break,” Cargill said. “Many politicians this year have moved spending to the front of the line and have opposed additional tax cuts. But, we made a commitment to the people of Oklahoma to reduce their income taxes, and we intend to keep that promise.”

The income tax currently sits at 5.5 percent, and was supposed to drop to 5.25 percent in 2009 if state revenues increased at least 4 percent.

But, last month the state Board of Equalization certified that there is not enough growth revenue to trigger the tax cuts. That tax cut will remain on the books though, and will be implemented with some changes to the language in 2010 if state revenues hit the 4 percent trigger, Cargill said.

Coupled with the new tax cut proposed this year, that would bring the state income tax below 5 percent by 2010.

“House Republicans have made record investments in our state’s roads and bridges and education system since we took over the majority in 2005,” said House Revenue and Taxation Chairman Randy Terrill. “But we also want to see a portion returned to the Oklahomans who footed the bill.”

Cargill also wants to set a long-term vision for the state’s tax policy. Political leaders in this state have been quick to embrace plenty of long term spending plans, but less so when it comes to tax policy. Reducing the tax burden on our state’s senior citizens should be a target the brightest fiscal minds in Oklahoma examine as a future goal, he said.

The Gadfly On The Wall

Do Or Die: My man Fred Thompson has it all riding on the South Carolina presidential primary this Saturday. He's "drawn a line in the sand" and needs a win to stay in the GOP race. Thus far, he's been, essentially, a no-show in the primaries and caucuses. As I've said, sooner or later, a leading candidate has to win one to stay there. Saturday is his best, and perhaps last, bet.

Already Dead: Why do already-dead presidential candidates stay in the race? Ego?

Election Year Session: Prepare thyself. Democrats will seek to out-smart Republicans. Republicans will seek to out-maneuver Democrats. Senate Democrats will be more than sensitive as they fear a possible GOP takeover come November. The rhetoric will fly; indeed, it already is flying.

A Year Later: Former State Rep. Kevin Calvey is back from a year's tour of duty in Baghdad as a JAG attorney prosecuting terrorists. The Army captain hasn't said much about his experiences; maybe he's saving them for the book he should be writing.

Not A Chance: There's no truth to the rumor that I am leaving soon for the northern Guatemala rain forest to search for Mayan ruins despite my interest in such things. Two reasons: 1) I no longer fly, 2) I don't like mosquitoes or snakes.

Gone: Bill Bateman, former Capitol correspondent for KTOK who left a year ago to join the staff of Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan, apparently is no longer employed there. McMahan's payroll no longer lists Bateman as a staff member.

Nanny State: Comes word a California effort to allow utilities to actually regulate the thermostat settings in homes and businesses apparently isn't going anywhere. Apparently...because in California, one never knows.

Federal Grand Jury: The federal grand jury investigating the Gene Stipe-Steve Phipps mess in southeastern Oklahoma is about due to issue another report, or indictments. Lots of rumors, no facts yet.

Coburn Endorses John McCain

Senator Tom Coburn today endorsed Republican presidential candidate John McCain. Coburn announced his support at a South Carolina news conference.

“I am honored to be here in South Carolina today, and I am very proud to endorse my friend and colleague Senator John McCain for President of the United States,” Coburn said in a prepared statement. Coburn said he particularly endorses McCain’s positions on fiscal responsibility and “the sanctity of life.”

Can Fred Thompson Win South Carolina?

From The Liberty Sphere ~ The MUST-read of the day is by Born Again Redneck, who provides an excellent and detailed run-down of Fred Thompson's bus campaign in South Carolina: http://bornagainredneck.blogspot.com/2008/01/fred-tours-south-carolina.html.

Three GOP Winners So Far; Will It Be Five?

Republicans face the prospect of five "front-runners" for the party's presidential nomination after Floridians vote in that state's primary. The prospect comes after Mitt Romney's impressive win in his home state of Michigan, a win that solidifies his role as the front-runner among the front-runners with 42 convention delegates. Mike Huckabee, winner in Iowa, is second in the delegate count. John McCain, who won New Hampshire, is third.

Here's the possible scenario that could find the GOP with five front-runners: Fred Thompson, who has said he must win South Carolina, does win it there, and Rudy Giuliani, who needs a win somewhere, wins Florida as some polls indicate he is in position to do. That would make five different candidates with signficant victories in the primary process going into Super Tuesday.

Graphic courtesy Fox News.

Consultant To Candidate: Marshall Files In Norman

Democratic campaign consultant Chebon Marshall, 33, has filed for the Norman City Council Ward 2 seat.

Marshall is a former chief of staff for former Congressman Brad Carson and was a partner with Mike Carrier in the 2006 election cycle. His campaign website is www.marshallfornorman.com.

Also filing for the office was a former assistant city attorney, Michael McKee.

Loveless Knocks SD 45 Doors

Republican State Senate candidate Kyle Loveless says that by month's end, he will have knocked 10,000 doors in Senate District 45.

The consultant-turned-candidate said, "Going door-to-door is one of the oldest, most conservative, most effective, and most interactive forms of campaigning."

Also seeking the GOP nomination in the district are attorney Jerry Foshee, former Oklahoma City councilman, and retired Army Lt. Colonel Steve Russell.

Senate District 45 encompasses parts of Yukon, Mustang, Southwest Oklahoma City, and parts of Moore.

The Republican primary is July 29th.

Romney Wins Big In Michigan; Clinton Lurches To Unimpressive Victory Over Nobody

Mitt Romney won his home state of Michigan in today's Republican presidential primary, besting John McCain and Mike Huckabee. With about half the precincts reporting, Romney had a comfortable, and impressive, 39-30 percent lead over McCain. On the Democratic side, Hillary Clinton, the only name Democrat on the ballot, had about 57 percent statewide but only 52 percent in the Democratic bastion of Detriot and only 42 percent in Ann Arbor, home of the University of Michigan. She and Dennis Kucinich were the only two Democrats to file in Michigan after the Democratic National Committee said that because Michigan moved its primary date up in defiance of DNC rules, no convention delegates would be seated as a result of the vote. The Republican National Committee also sought to penalize Michigan, but agreed to seat 30 delegates instead of the usual 60.

FEMA Denies Individual Assistance Request; Henry Reported 'Outraged,' Expresses Disappointment

Governor Henry, reportedly "outraged," said today he is deeply disappointed and frustrated that the Federal Emergency Management Agency has denied Oklahoma’s request for individual assistance for people hit hard by last month’s deadly ice storm.

Henry said the state will appeal the decision.

“I don’t understand how FEMA could assess the extensive damages from that ice storm and not conclude the obvious,” he said. “This was a storm of historic proportions that caused damage to both public property and private property. With more than 13,000 damage reports received by the state, individual assistance is certainly justified.”

On January 9, Henry requested individual assistance for Oklahoma and Tulsa counties, although state emergency management officials had indicated that additional counties would be added if the request was approved. Henry said he and state emergency management officials knew the request could be denied in light of Oklahoma’s experience with the January 2007 ice storm, in which FEMA had also denied individual assistance. “But we remained optimistic,” he said. “After receiving nine presidential disaster declarations in one year, which included back-to-back flooding events, ice and snow storms, we felt the case for additional assistance had been made.

“The ice storm was a full-fledged catastrophe. It knocked out power to more than 640,000 Oklahoma homes and businesses, many of which were not able to have power restored for more than a week. The disaster resulted in at least 29 deaths. If the ice storm did not warrant federal assistance for the many Oklahomans who were impacted, then nothing does.”

On two other occasions in the past eight years, individual assistance was granted for winter storms that were no more severe than the one that crippled much of Oklahoma in December. President Bush last month granted Henry’s request for public assistance to 25 counties impacted by the storm. Under that declaration, federal assistance is available for expenses related to infrastructure damage including roads, bridges and public facilities, as well as the costs of debris removal.

Edwards Hits Old Theme In OKC Airport Stop

Super-rich trial lawyer John Edwards in Oklahoma City today: "For too long, powerful entrenched interests have gotten every break imaginable from Washington, while middle class families have struggled. I have spent my entire life standing up and fighting for regular Americans against these interests and beating them. I know that if we fight together we can get the change we need and take our country back, because every time we fight for jobs, for families, for the middle class, for universal health care, America rises."

Romney Needs A Michigan Victory Today

Senator John McCain was trying to repeat history while Mitt Romney was seeking a favorite-son boost as Michigan voters cast ballots Tuesday in a very tight Republican presidential primary.

The Democratic side of the primary has generated less interest because Hillary Rodham Clinton is the only top tier candidate on the ballot and no delegates are at stake.

About 20 percent of eligible voters were expected to turn out. Freezing temperatures prevailed and snow was falling across much of the state Tuesday morning, with snowfall totals by 9 a.m. EST reaching a half a foot in some places, according to the National Weather Service.

The economy has dominated the GOP race in recent days, with front-runners Romney and McCain both pledging to lead a revival for a state and an auto industry ravaged by recession.

Polls showed McCain and Romney in a close race, with former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee running third. Of the three, Romney is most in need of a victory as he looks to restore at least some of the luster lost with defeats in the Iowa caucuses and New Hampshire primary. Several associates have suggested the former Massachusetts governor may quit the race unless he prevails.

Hear Mike McCarville's thoughts on the Michigan primary and the presidential race tonight at 8, 9 and 10 on Sirius Satellite Radio Patriot Channel 144.

Inman Wants DUI, DWI Information On Licenses

A recently filed measure could help reduce drunk driving convictions and alcohol-related traffic fatalities by requiring that previous DUI or DWI convictions be noted on drivers' licenses.

State Rep. Scott Inman has filed a measure that would require anyone convicted of a DUI or DWI to have a designation placed on their driver's license reflecting that conviction even after the first offense. The designation would remain on the license for up to four years and would only be removed if the person received no additional drunk driving convictions during that time.

"This is a measure that I believe will help reduce the number of alcohol-related deaths by providing information to the drinking establishments that this person has a history of drinking and driving while intoxicated," said Inman, D-Del City. "Hopefully, the establishment will stop serving the customer after a few drinks. It's a way to help the industry police itself and to protect not only its customers, but also the thousands of innocent victims out there who die every year because of drunk drivers."

In 2005, there were 16,885 alcohol-related fatalities, which accounted for 39 percent of the total traffic fatalities for the year, according to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. Of those 16,885 fatalities, 86 percent were killed in crashes where at least one driver had a Blood Alcohol Content of .08 or higher. As of May 2007, all 50 states have adopted .08 as the BAC level to determine whether a person is "legally drunk."In Oklahoma, 283 out of 802 total traffic fatalities were alcohol related in 2005, the highest number of alcohol-related traffic deaths since 1997.

House Republicans Unveil 2008 Agenda

House Republicans unveiled their 2008 legislative agenda Tuesday with plans to push for a more accountable education system, a modern, efficient and ethical government and stronger and healthier Oklahoma families.

In 2007, House Republicans offered Oklahoma the Year of Ideas agenda.

"Now, at the dawn of Oklahoma’s second century, it's time to harness the energy and enthusiasm generated last year. It’s time to move forward with solutions," the GOP statement said.

“Ideas only get us so far. They are nothing without action,” said House Speaker Lance Cargill. “We spent a year gathering the best ideas, but now, as we move into our second century, we must build a state that is known not only for its original thinkers, but also for its ability to produce solutions.”

The agenda consists of four themes.

“When we say we want government modernization, you know we have been talking about an assessment of state assets and streamlining the state’s purchasing among other reforms,” said Cargill, R-Harrah. “But these are not the only solutions, and we will be seeking other ideas that may be incorporated into our agenda over the course of session.”

“We have diverse ideas among our Republican members,” said Cargill. “I want as many ideas as possible, so at the end of the day, we can have the best policy for the state.”

"The Year of Solutions agenda will build on conservative accomplishments realized since House Republicans took control in 2005 and bring a renewed focus to government accountability and education reforms, along with policies to help working families and improve our state’s quality of life," the statement continued.

The agenda includes:

Investment and Reform in Education The House GOP supports continued investments in education, coupled with more accountability, increased standards and better results. A good first step towards that end is a performance pay plan for our school teachers, so that good teachers are rewarded for success. Teachers are professionals and they deserve to be paid like professionals. For too long, Oklahoma’s teachers have been held back by a “one size fits all” model of pay. “We have some of the best teacher’s in the country, and they deserve to be compenstated accordingly,” said House Education Committee Chairman Rep. Tad Jones, R-Claremore, said. “It is an insult to tell those great teachers that they are worth no more to this state than a mediocre peer.”

Government Modernization, Efficiency and Ethics Reform Oklahoma has been stuck in an antiquated era of state government since our founding a century ago. It’s time to move into the next century by embracing new technologies to make the state more efficient and cost-effective. Let’s take a more businesslike approach to state government. Oklahoma’s leaders must also consolidate or end outmoded portions of government, while embracing innovative programs that allow agencies more flexibility. “Government needs to be run less like a good ol’ boys club and more like a modern-day business,” said Rep. Ken Miller, vice-chairman of the House Appropriations and Budget Committee. “We owe the taxpayers the best return on their investment we can give them.”

Stronger and Healthier Families With a combination of reforms such as a childcare tax credit and pro-life legislation, the House GOP showed a strong commitment to Oklahoma’s middle class last year. That commitment continues with the Year of Solutions agenda -- with new reforms to help boost economic and physical well-being, increase public safety and advance further reforms to encourage faith-based organizations. “House Republicans will push to implement long-term solutions for public safety like those identified in the recently-released independent audit of the Corrections Department,” said Rex Duncan, R-Sand Springs, chairman of the House Judiciary and Public Safety Committee.

Growing Oklahoma The House GOP believes that government has a proper role to play in establishing the right conditions for economic growth -- through tax reforms, removing regulatory barriers, legal reforms and through investments in transportation and infrastructure. As Oklahoma moves into the 21st Century knowledge-based economy, we must do more to free our state’s entrepreneurial drive and to provide more and better job opportunities. “Education, tax and health care reforms are important, but they don’t mean anything if the roads you use to drive to the doctor or take your child to school are not safe,” said Rep. Guy Liebmann, chairman of the House General Government and Transportation Committee.

“In this election year, we must be willing to put aside our political differences and work toward solutions that will move this state forward,” said Cargill. “And the House Republicans will be leading the charge.”

John Ford Wants Voter Identification

Senator John Ford is renewing his effort to guard against election fraud. Ford has filed Senate Bill 1150 which will require voters to show identification when they cast their ballots. Similar legislation has gone unheard in past sessions.

“The role voters play in determining the future of our cities, counties, state and nation is just too important to leave it open to fraud,” said Ford. “Senate Bill 1150 will protect the integrity of the process by helping ensure that only duly registered voters participate in elections.”

Ford said his measure simply requires voters to show identification at the polls. Voters could use a valid voter identification card, driver license, passport, state identification card, a copy of a current utility bill, bank statement, government check or paycheck, or any other government document showing the voter’s name and address.

“No one thinks twice when asked for identification when writing a check or for commercial air travel,” Ford said. “When you consider the critical roll elections play in determining our very future, it is simply good sense to make sure we do everything possible to protect that future by ensuring citizens who are registered voters are the ones making those decisions.”

If approved, SB 1150 would take effect on January 1, 2009.

Edwards Plans Oklahoma City Stops

Democratic presidential candidate John Edwards, who finished second in Oklahoma’s primary four years ago and appears to be running second this time around, plans to campaign in Oklahoma City today and Friday. Edwards' visits come as a new poll showed him trailing Senator Hillary Clinton and leading Barack Obama in the state.

The Friday event begins at 6 p.m. at the Teamster Hall on West Reno. Edwards will stop in Oklahoma on Friday night after visiting Las Vegas earlier in the day. The stop is part of a western swing that features stops in Nevada, Los Angeles and St. Louis before Edwards returns to the East Coast in advance of South Carolina’s January 26 primary.

Edwards, along with his daughter Cate, will attend an 11:30 a.m. press conference Tuesday at Wiley Post Airport in Bethany, according to a news release.

Oklahoma’s primary will be held on February 5.

Fellow Democrat Barack Obama opened a campaign office in Oklahoma City on Monday in the same building that houses the Oklahoma Democratic Party on North Lincoln Boulevard.

Isaac Baker, a spokesman for Hillary Rodham Clinton, said her campaign is considering opening an Oklahoma office and is adding staff for a grassroots campaign in the state.

Survey USA: Huckabee, Clinton Tops In State

Survey USA reports that Mike Huckabee and Hillary Clinton are top picks in Oklahoma as the state approaches its February presidential primary. The survey was taken for KFOR-TV-Channel 4 in Oklahoma City.

Ballot Access Drive Falls Short

A group seeking to make it easier for third party candidates to gain access to the Oklahoma ballot has come up short. Oklahomans for Ballot Access Reform turned in about 14,000 signatures on its petitions to the secretary of state on Monday. The group needed to get 74,117 valid signatures to get its proposal on a statewide ballot. Joni LeViness, OBAR chairwoman, said the group now hopes to persuade the Legislature to change the rules on ballot access.

Mike Brown: Cargill's 'Petty Attacks' Uncalled For

Tahlequah Democat Rep. Mike Brown (pictured) said today that House Speaker Lance Cargill's remarks last week about fiscal responsibility and ethical behavior were uncalled-for "petty attacks."

Brown said Cargill "resorted to petty attacks and blamed others for his problems. His personal attacks on other Members of the House of Representatives are uncalled for.”

“No matter what the Speaker says, the fact is more money has been spent,” said Brown. “The Speaker can send out press releases to justify paying his employees more money and buying new furniture. It is a fact that the Oklahoma House of Representatives and Legislative Service Bureau budgets have increased in his tenure as Speaker.”

“I am perfectly happy with my new office renovation,” said Brown. “I would have been perfectly content with my old oak desk, sofa and chairs. When I asked to keep my furniture I was told that keeping the old furniture wasn’t an option, the Speaker was replacing everyone’s. I am not taking issue with the Speaker over the fact that he renovated the offices. I take issue with the fact that the House budget has increased by $1 million and the Speaker is now making excuses for extravagant spending. Don’t insult my or the peoples’ intelligence by saying you’ve cut the budget when you really haven’t.”

“It seems The Speaker and other Republican House Members want to blame former Senator Gene Stipe or other elected officials' ethical behavior for their current problems. Gene Stipe hasn’t had any control of the state's budget since I’ve been elected. Former Insurance Commissioner Carroll Fisher was impeached by a Democratic controlled House in 2004 for illegally receiving bribes and gifts from the Gene Phillips Group, and is now in prison. Since then the Republican Leadership and a handful of Republican House members enjoyed a fundraiser at the Phillips home in December. When reporters asked them about it, they seemed to have selective memory loss as to whose home they were going or completely forgot the Fisher/Phillips incident.”

“Democrats took action in impeaching Fisher, will others be willing to do the same if necessary?” asked Brown.

“I want to work in a bipartisan government with the Speaker if he is willing. We can all work together to find ways to save Oklahoma taxpayers money. Just don’t use the Speaker’s office to promote spending less money when you are in fact doing the opposite.”

Cargill, Coffee Criticize Tulsa School Lawsuit

Speaker of the House Lance Cargill and Senate Co-President Pro Tempore Glenn Coffee today criticized Tulsa Public Schools’ lawsuit against the state’s charter schools law. The lawsuit’s goal is to get the Charter School Act, which allows charter schools to operate in Oklahoma and Tulsa counties, declared unconstitutional.

“Charter schools are an amazing success story in Oklahoma, with many charter schools excelling in areas where traditional, urban school settings have not. It is very disappointing that the Tulsa Public School District is pushing this misguided, anti-student lawsuit,” said Coffee, R-Oklahoma City. “Charter schools provide a much needed compliment to traditional public education, and give parents a choice and an alternative for their children. TPS should be working with the Legislature to expand the successful charter schools program, not attacking charter schools with a lawsuit."

"The Tulsa School Board is trying to force a one-size-fits-all education system onto Oklahoma students, who all learn in different ways," said Cargill, R-Harrah. "Instead of imposing a monopoly on education, the board needs to accept that charter schools have been very successful in settings where unique studies and personalized attention have benefited students. After all, this is about getting Oklahoma's children the very best education possible, not nursing bruised egos."

Charter schools are public schools established by contract with sponsors, and are exempt from many state regulations. Oklahoma law authorizes charter schools in 12 school districts: Broken Arrow, Edmond, Jenks, Midwest City/Del City, Moore, Mustang, Oklahoma City, Owasso, Putnam City, Sand Springs, Tulsa and Union Public Schools.

These districts' boards of education, or the area CareerTech school boards serving them, may sponsor a charter school. Oklahoma law also allows a comprehensive or regional institution of Higher Education to sponsor a charter school in certain school districts.

Francis Stipe Prosecutors Seek Blank Subpoenas

By James Beaty, Senior Editor, McAlester News-Capital ~ The U.S. Department of Justice’s case against McAlester businessman Francis Stipe is moving forward, with Assistant U.S. Attorney Gay Guthrie requesting 50 blank subpoenas.

Guthrie filed the request on behalf of federal prosecutors with the U.S. Court Clerk’s office for the Eastern District of Oklahoma in Muskogee.

The blank subpoenas will allow Guthrie and federal prosecutors with Eastern District of Oklahoma U.S. Attorney Sheldon Sperling’s offices to fill in the names of witnesses they want to summon to testify in the federal government’s case against Stipe.

Stipe and his brother, former state Sen. Gene Stipe, of McAlester, were indicted by a federal grand jury last October. The four-count indictment charged both men with conspiracy, mail fraud, witness tampering and illegal monetary transactions.

The trial of Francis Stipe is set for 9 a.m. on Feb. 4 at the Eastern District of Oklahoma U.S. Courthouse in Muskogee.

In a court order, Judge White has set a criminal pretrial conference for 9 a.m. on Jan. 30. The judge also ordered that requested jury instructions, verdict forms and trial briefs are due by noon on Jan. 29, or else attorneys must submit a notice of intent to plea.U.S. attorneys must submit their witness list at the pre-trial conference, along with an estimate of the amount of time needed for each witness.

The trial had originally been set for Jan. 7. However, Judge White granted the continuance until Feb. 4 after Francis Stipe hired Tulsa attorney John Carwile to join McAlester attorney Warren Gotcher as part of the defense team.

In asking for the continuance, Gotcher had said that Carwile needed more time to become acquainted with the case and had a pending trial on another matter.

The indictments against Francis and Gene Stipe revolve around allegations of illegal actions to steer state funds to private businesses, including some owned or partially owned by Gene Stipe, according to allegations in court documents.

Both Francis and Gene Stipe were accused in the indictment of witness tampering through the purchase of a mortgage on the house of former District 17 U.S. Rep. Mike Mass, of Hartshorne.

Mass has already pleaded guilty to mail fraud in connection with the federal grimed jury investigation. His sentencing has been delayed so he can testify against Francis and Gene Stipe, according to court documents.

Meanwhile, the case against Gene Stipe is pending a ruling by the U.S. 10th Circuit Court of Appeals in Denver, Colo.

Gene Stipe is appealing a ruling by Judge White which found him mentally incompetent. White also ordered Gene Stipe to report to the U.S. Medical Center for Prisoners for up to four months to see if he will respond to treatment, which theoretically might convince White that he is mentally competent to assist his lawyers in defending himself against the case the U.S. government has filed against him.

Gene Stipe has been ordered to remain under house arrest while awaiting a ruling on his appeal to the 10th Circuit Court.

Poll: McCain Surges To Lead GOP Candidates

Surging after his win in the New Hampshire primary, Arizona Senator John McCain has come from behind to now lead the national Republican race, according to a new CBS News/New York Times poll.

However, among Democrats, New York Senator Hillary Clinton has maintained her double-digit national lead in the race, despite winning only one of the two contests so far.

McCain is now the choice of 33 percent of Republican primary voters in the poll, up from just seven percent in the last CBS News/New York Times poll taken in December.

Former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee is in second place with 18 percent, down from 21 percent in December. The biggest drop downward is in former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani’s support, from leading at 22 percent in the last poll to ten percent now. Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney and former Tennessee Sen. Fred Thompson are tied in this poll at eight percent.

Study: Internet Now Major Political News Source

Nearly twice as many Americans are using the Internet as their major source for news on the presidential campaign than at the same point four years ago, according to a survey.

A study by the Pew Research Center found that nearly a quarter of Americans are turning to the Internet for their campaign coverage (24 per cent) compared to just 13 per cent who turned to the net for news of the previous race for the White House in 2004.

In 2000, the figure was just nine per cent. (Survey results here).

The Internet in now the leading source of campaign news for younger people, with 42 per cent of those respondents ages 18 to 29 regularly turning to the web for news on candidates.

SPR: Battle For SC Black Votes 'Political World War'

From The Southern Political Report ~ The attacks and counterattacks between the Obama and Clinton camps over various statements made by Bill Clinton, Hillary Clinton and the founder of BET (Black Entertainment Television) kept the battle for African American votes in South Carolina looking more like a political world war Sunday.

Read the entire SPR story at www.southernpoliticalreport.com.

Race Now Prime Clinton-Obama Debate Issue

From News Services ~ Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Clinton bashed rival Barack Obama again on Sunday, suggesting that the black senator from Illinois is trying to prolong a race controversy that bubbled up after Clinton last week said it took a president like Lyndon Johnson to enact the vision presented by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Obama countered by saying Clinton is trying to rewrite history to serve her own future.

“Dr. King’s dream began to be realized when President Lyndon Johnson passed the Civil Rights Act of 1964,” Clinton told FOX News last week in remarks that sparked the current conflict. “It took a president to get it done.”

On Sunday, Clinton complained that Obama has been misrepresenting her words and their meaning. She said Obama has been comparing himself to King and President John F. Kennedy, who began the process that led to landmark civil rights legislation. But unlike King, who Clinton noted had marched, organized, protested, and was gassed, beaten and jailed, Obama is merely giving speeches about his commitment to racial equality.

“(King) understood he had to move the political process and bring in those who were in political power,” Clinton told NBC’s “Meet the Press.”

“And he campaigned for political leaders, including Lyndon Johnson, because he wanted somebody in the White House who would act on what he had devoted his life to achieving . So I think it’s important to set the record straight. Clearly, we know from media reports that the Obama campaign (is) deliberately distorting this.”

Clinton added that King deserves “the lion share of the credit” for moving the country and political process forward, but he couldn’t have done it without “partners who were in the political system.”

“I think it is such an unfair and unwarranted attempt to misrepresent and mischaracterize what I’ve said,” Clinton added.

In response, Obama held a conference call with reporters to say that he’s fascinated with the way the controversy is playing out, and it helps to explain why Americans are tired of Washington games. But, he added, Clinton “made an unfortunate remark, an ill-advised remark” about King and Johnson, and then wrongly blamed Obama when she was called on it.

“I didn’t make the statement. I haven’t remarked on it and she, I think, offended some folks who felt that somehow diminished King’s role in bringing about the Civil Rights Act. She is free to explain that, but the notion that somehow this is our doing is ludicrous. I have to point out that instead of telling the American people about her positive vision for America, Senator Clinton spent an hour talking about me and my record in a way that was flat-out wrong,” Obama said.

“I have to say that she started this campaign saying that she wanted to make history and lately she has been spending a lot of time rewriting it. I know that in Washington it is acceptable to say or do anything it takes to get elected, but I really don’t think that is the kind of politics that is good for our party, and I don’t think it is good for our country and I think that the American people will reject it in this election,” he continued.

Giuliani Faces Critical Test In Florida

From The Southern Political Report ~ After being pushed to the media sidelines during the Iowa caucuses and New Hampshire primary, Rudy Giuliani has made it virtually impossible to avoid him as Florida's January 29 primary approaches. He is blanketing the airwaves with three different ads and starts a two-and-a-half day bus tour this coming weekend. Giuliani fared poorly in Iowa and New Hampshire, and is not expected to do well in South Carolina, so it is crucial he win Florida.

Positive? Negative? TV Networks Scrutinized

Noted Statistics: A study by the Center for Media and Public Affairs found that 58 percent of stories on Senator Hillary Clinton on the main ABC, CBS, NBC and Fox News Channel newscasts from the beginning of October to mid-December were dominated by negative comments. By contrast, 61 percent of the comments about Barack Obama were positive, and so was 67 percent of the John Edwards coverage.

Public Input Probable On Vehicle Tag Design

The state’s vehicle license plates may soon ge