Democratic Party To Name Nominee To Replace Rep. Terry Hyman

Democratic Party officials have until Wednesday to name a candidate to replace Rep. Terry Hyman, D-Leon, who died following a tractor accident on his Love County farm.

Election Board officials said the deadline is required by procedures they will use to replace Hyman's name on the November 4th general election ballot.

Party officials said they will meet Tuesday to select a nominee and will provide the name to the Election Board in advance of the Wednesday deadline.

Services for Hyman, 56, will be held in Ardmore on Wednesday.

Murdock Police Report Details Alleged Act

By Nolan Clay and Augie Frost/Staff Writers, The Oklahoman ~ A crying woman told police Oklahoma City attorney Dan Murdock got her alone at Remington Park Saturday night, asked if she is a tease, then pulled down her top and bit her on the breast, police reported.

The woman said he also grabbed her by the hair, bit her neck and grabbed her outside her clothes in her genital area.

"But he didn't rape me," she told police in tears.

Murdock, 62, is general counsel of the Oklahoman Bar Association, the main state lawyers' group. In his position, he is in charge of seeking discipline from the State Supreme Court for attorneys involved in misconduct including sexual wrongdoing.

Murdock was arrested Saturday night at Remington Park on a sexual battery complaint. His attorney, Tom Riesen, said Sunday, "We deny any inappropriate action occurred."

Murdock told The Oklahoman he was hosting a wedding shower Saturday night in Suite 6 at Remington Park.

Police reported that, as he was arrested and handcuffed, he slightly shook his head and said "I can't believe this." He later asked police to call his wife.

Police today released the crime report which provides details about the accusation and arrest.

The woman, who is in her 30s, said she had talked with Murdock at the wedding shower, according to the report. She said she had been drinking wine. She said he told her he was divorced.

She said he wanted to show her his other suite and she agreed.

"Once inside the suite, she realized there was no one in there but her and" Murdock, police reported.

She told police he asked her, "Are you a tease like all the other women?" She said he then began assaulting her, blocking her path and cornering her when she said she needed to leave. She told police she asked to leave at least twice more.

Police reported she was wearing a black strapless top "making it very easy to be pulled down."

Murdock was arrested after the woman said that even though she expects her character to be questioned "that doesn't give him the right to do what he did," according to the police report.

State Prepares For Terry Hyman Services

Services are scheduled Wednesday for Rep. Terry Hyman, Leon Democrat who died at age 56 in an accident on his Love County farm on Friday.

A funeral and memorial service will be held at the Ardmore Convention Center at 2 p.m. Wednesday with all members of the Oklahoma House as honorary pall bearers. House leadership has arranged joint transportation from the Capitol to Ardmore on Wednesday for members.

In lieu of flowers, the family has asked that donations be made to the Leon Baptist Church, Leon, OK 73441, the Oklahoma Baptist Village of Texoma or the Oklahoma Baptist Girls Home c/o Alexander Funeral Home 1302 7th Street, Wilson, OK 74363.

A family visitation is planned Tuesday night at the Alexander Funeral Home in Wilson.

Hyman is survived by his wife and daughter.

OKC Gang Violence Quadruples

Oklahoma City Police Chief Bill Citty says there were 50 or 60 gang-related drive-by shootings in 1999, and the number jumped to 260 in 2005. In a May 31 drive-by shooting, six Hispanic teenagers were hit by gunfire from black gang members.

Citty says the number of estimated gang members in Oklahoma City has remained a constant 5,000, but they have become more violent.

Citty's answer to the crime wave in a recent news conference: Enact restrictions on law-abiding gun owners.

Bill Clinton: Obama Can 'Kiss My Ass'

From Fox News ~ As Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama were kissing and making up last Friday, Bill Clinton might have had other ideas, according to a report in The (London) Telegraph.

The paper reports that even as the former president and the current presumptive Democratic nominee prepare to meet to make their own amends, Bill Clinton reportedly told close friends Obama can “kiss my ass” to get his support.

The paper cited an anonymous Democratic source who provided the quote. That source also said Clinton is not making the primary effort to bridge the chasm between himself and Obama.

“He’s saying he’s not going to reach out, that Obama has to come to him. One person told me that Bill said Obama would have to quote, ‘kiss my ass,’ close quote, if he wants his support.

“You can’t talk like that about Obama — he’s the nominee of your party, not some house boy you can order around.

“Hillary’s just getting on with it and so should Bill.”

Bill Clinton has more recently cooled his rhetoric toward the de facto party leader, but he has publicly expressed his anger over being painted as a racist and race-baiter while his wife was campaigning against Obama.

In April, Bill Clinton had a fiery exchange with a public radio reporter, who asked him about a controversial statement he made on South Carolina on the day the state held its primary, and whether he regretted comparing Obama’s campaign to Jesse Jackson’s campaigns.

Clinton responded: “No, I think that they played the race card on me, and we now know from memos in the campaign and everything that they planned to do it all along.

“Do I regret saying it? No. Do I regret that it was used that way? I certainly do. But you’ve really got to go some (distance) to portray me as a racist,” Clinton said, adding that he has an office in Harlem, and Jackson told him personally he was not offended.

OBA General Counsel Faces Complaint

By Jay F. Marks and Nolan Clay/Staff Writers, The Oklahoman ~ An Oklahoma Bar Association official responsible for reining in misbehaving lawyers is free on bail after being arrested Saturday night on a sexual battery complaint.

Dan Murdock, the bar association’s general counsel, refused to comment on his arrest Sunday, but his attorney maintains he did nothing wrong.

“We do not yet know the specific nature of the allegation, but we deny any inappropriate action occurred,” attorney Tom Riesen said.

Riesen said Murdock has been a well-respected attorney in the Oklahoma City area for almost 35 years, including nearly 20 years with the bar association.

Murdock, 62, was arrested at Remington Park shortly before midnight Saturday night by Oklahoma City police on a sexual battery complaint, authorities said.

He spent about 40 minutes in the Oklahoma County jail Sunday morning before being released on $5,000 bail.

No further information about the incident was available Sunday.

Murdock acknowledged he was at Remington Park, hosting a wedding shower for a couple in Suite 6. He referred all questions about his arrest to Riesen.

Murdock said he remains general counsel of the bar association.

Bar association executive director John Morris Williams declined to comment on "confidential" personnel matters involving Murdock, whom he called a valuable employee.

World: Riley Seat Huge This Year

From The Tulsa World ~ The outcome of the race for a Tulsa-area Senate district will play a huge role in determining which party controls the upper chamber next year.

Sen. Nancy Riley, D-Sand Springs, is hoping to retain the seat she has held since 2000, when, as a Republican, she narrowly defeated the Democratic incumbent, Lewis Long. She will face the winner of the July 29 Republican primary, which pits Dan Newberry, the president of Homeland Federal Mortgage, against Jan Megee, an administrative aide for the Tulsa City Council.

Riley has raised considerably more money than the two Republicans have. But the race is expected to possibly break a record in terms of spending for a four-year Senate post that pays $38,400 a year.

The Senate is tied with 24 Republicans and 24 Democrats.

Read the entire story at http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/article.aspx?articleID=20080629_16_A1_spancl258181.

OCPAC Endorses Loveless

The Oklahoma Conservative Political Action Committee has endorsed Senate District 45 Republican candidate Kyle Loveless.

"I am thrilled to have their seal of approval," said Loveless. "This group is the conservative’s conservative, and when going door to door, I get asked what makes me more conservative than the other guys, well now it is official," Loveless said.

OCPAC Chairman Charlie Meadows said, "It takes a majority of votes to get our endorsement, and the members are not even required to endorse someone at all, but it was obvious, with his understanding and clarity on positions along with his strong convictions, Kyle Loveless is THE most conservative of the candidates and won our endorsement with overwhelming support."

Other Republicans in the race are Jerry Foshee and Steve Russell.

The Gadfly At Home On The Range

Celebrating: Today, the celebration over the U. S. Supreme Court's ruling in the DC vs. Heller case, in which the court upheld the 2nd Amendment, continues. Earplugs required.

Cruising The Blogosphere

Stan Geiger's Intuition: Tulsa blogger Stan Geiger posted this line after recounting the alleged details of a home invasion that left a former Supreme Court attorney dead and her husband with a minor hand wound: "If I'm investigating this one, I'm taking a really hard look at hubby." Within 36 hours, police arrested the husband, who faces a murder charge.

Great Plains Airlines: David Arnett has an excellent exposition on this controversy on his Tulsa Today website.

Green Country Values: Jenn Sierra's doing a nice job with this new site/blog that covers a little bit of most everything.

Bad Bush Time? Alternative Tulsa says it's not a good time to be a supporter of President Bush.

Yet Another Small Town Moment: I have been a fan of this blog since I discovered it a couple of years ago. It is Americana at its best, well-written, insightful, funny at times, always entertaining to read. And we don't even know the writer's name. Shame.

Terry Hyman Memorial Service Wednesday; Visitation Scheduled Tuesday

A memorial service for Rep. Terry Hyman, who died Friday in an accident on his Love County farm, will be next Wednesday at 2 p.m. at the Ardmore Convention Center (2401 N Rockford Road) visible from and on the east side of Interstate 35.

Visitation of the body will be at the Alexander Funeral Home in Wilson from 4:00 pm to 8:00 p.m. on Tuesday. The Hyman family has made all 101 Members of the House honorary pallbearers. House members with questions can call Rep. Danny Hilliard at 580-618-5111.

Friends say Mrs. Hyman is asking that anyone wishing to make a memorial may send a gift in Terry's name to: Oklahoma Baptist Girls' Home, 1117 Anthony Lane, Madill, Oklahoma 73446, or securely on-line to https://www.obhc.org/NetCommunity/SSLPage.aspx?&pid=714 or the Terry Hyman Memorial, Leon Baptist Church, Leon, OK 73441.

Services are in the care of Alexander Funeral Home of Wilson.

TERRY HYMAN DIES IN FARM ACCIDENT

State Rep. Terry Hyman, D-Leon, died in an accident on his farm sometime Friday afternoon. His body was discovered about 10:20 p.m. last night.

Hyman, 56, apparently was operating equipment on his Love County farm. The Oklahoma Highway Patrol reports he was standing close to a tractor when it lunged forward, knocking him down, and he then became entangled in a bladed brush hog that rolled over him. He was able to extricate himself, but was found dead at the scene of severe injuries.

It's the second tragedy to strike the Hyman family; his daughter, Jennifer, disappeared from Oklahoma City in 2003 and her body was found dumped near an interstate highway in Mississippi.

Democratic House leader Danny Morgan praised the respected Hyman.

“He was a quiet and steady legislator,” said Morgan, of Prague. “He had respect among all of the members out there, both Republicans and Democrats. Our thoughts and prayers are with his family."

"Today, Oklahomans mourn the loss of a dedicated and beloved public servant," said Governor Brad Henry. "Terry Hyman was a true native son of Oklahoma. He loved farming and rodeo, and he was fiercely devoted to making a better life for his constituents. In the wake of his tragic and untimely death, I know I speak for all Oklahomans when I say Rep. Hyman's wife and family are in our thoughts and prayers."

State law allows for the Democratic Party to choose a new candidate to replace Hyman on the ballot. After a candidate's death, the party must submit a new name in writing within five days.

Senator Jay Paul Gumm, whose Senate district overlaps the House district Hyman represented, said, “My family and I are shocked and saddened at the untimely passing of Rep. Terry Hyman. This is an unthinkable loss for a family who love him, a state that is better because of him, and friends who will miss him. He was the first person to visit my wife and me in the hospital after the birth of our son – that was the kind of person Terry was. His humor, wisdom, strength and quiet courage are an incredible legacy, and will forever serve as an example to all of us who serve the public. Those of us fortunate enough to serve alongside him will do our best to carry on his work. We will miss our friend, we will never forget him and we all are better because we knew him.”

Rep. Joe Dorman said, “Terry was one of my advisors in college, and he taught me to always stand up for those who can’t fight against the powers that be. He was one of the unsung leaders at OSU, and later in the House of Representatives, who worked behind the scenes to make sure those that needed help received it. He will be missed by many that never knew how much he did to help out the common good.”

Rep. Wes Hilliard said, “I am deeply saddened by the news of the tragic passing of my friend and colleague, Representative Hyman. Not only did we enter the state House together as freshmen, Terry served as my advisor during my college years at Oklahoma State University. I learned so much from him, both at the state House where his quick wit and depth of the issues made him any incredible debater, and at OSU where his passion for education was so infectious that it made a lasting impact on me and anyone else who spent time with him. He will be sorely missed, but I believe we can all find comfort in knowing he made the most of his time here on Earth and his service to our state has made Oklahoma a better place to live, work and raise a family.”

Rep. George Faught said, “I was deeply saddened to hear the tragic news of the death of State Rep. Terry Hyman. As a member of the Tourism & Recreation Committee he chaired, I found him to be a very gracious and honorable leader. He was well-respected by colleagues from both sides of the aisle, and will be sorely missed. The Oklahoma legislature has lost a true southern gentleman. Our thoughts and prayers are with his wife and family.”

Hyman was elected to the House in 2004. He was a member of several organizations including the Love County Chamber of Commerce and the National Rifle Association.

Hyman attended Oklahoma State University, where he obtained a bachelor's degree in agriculture and a master's in political science and public administration.

After his first graduation from OSU, he ran for Love County commissioner and defeated a 12-year incumbent. He later returned to Stillwater, where he spent 13 years as OSU's rodeo coach and coordinator of freshman programs, and was also faculty adviser for the university's Young Democrats student organization.

Hyman's body was taken to Alexander Funeral Home in Wilson; funeral arrangements have not yet been announced.

Reynolds Criticizes Fisher Appointment

The appointment of former Senator Ted Fisher to the Council of Bond Oversight "is an alarming development for anyone who believes in government accountability," Rep. Mike Reynolds said today.

"To put it mildly, Senator Fisher has an extremely weak record when it comes to ensuring tax dollars are not wasted or funneled to questionable business transactions," said Reynolds, R-Oklahoma City.

"Thanks to former Senator Fisher's actions, Oklahoma taxpayers were fleeced out of millions of dollars through a tax credit scheme."

During his time in the state Senate, Fisher (D-Sapulpa) authored the Small Business Capital Formation Incentive Act and the Rural Venture Capital Formation Incentive Act. Supporters claimed the two programs,which provided tax credits on money invested in certain projects, would spur economic development.

In reality, the two programs were massive tax loopholes that drained state coffers without generating new jobs, Reynolds noted.

Under Fisher's legislation, there was no requirement for a person to seek pre-approval of an investment plan to obtain the tax credits, Reynolds said. Ultimately, individuals had the ability to borrow money to obtain tax credits whose value actually exceeded the initial loan, allowing recipients to pay off the loan and make a profit solely on the paper transaction.

Apparently, some "investors" never spent a dime on any actual projects, yet they still reaped massive financial rewards.

When lawmakers finally closed the Fisher loopholes, it was unclear how much the tax credits would ultimately cost the state, but officials suggested several hundred million dollars in credits had already been issued, according to news reports at the time.

Henry Seeks Federal Help For 24 Counties

Governor Henry today requested that President Bush grant public assistance to 24 Oklahoma counties impacted by severe storms, tornadoes and flooding between June 3 and June 20.

If approved, the designation would deliver federal funding to assist cities, towns and counties with infrastructure repairs and costs associated with responding to the storms.

The counties are Alfalfa, Beaver, Beckham, Blaine, Cotton, Custer, Dewey, Ellis, Garfield, Grant, Harmon, Harper, Jackson, Kay, Kiowa, Major, Okfuskee, Osage, Ottawa, Roger Mills, Rogers, Tillman, Washita and Woods.

Other counties can be added to the request as additional information becomes available.

Congress Leader Backs Fallin Energy Plan

Republican Whip Roy Blunt is backing a bill introduced by Congresswoman Mary Fallin that would expedite the permitting and approval process for energy exploration on leased federal lands.

"The Fallin plan would immediately add new energy supply to the pipeline, and trigger an immediate price reduction at the pump," Blunt said. "Unfortunately for the American people, today we wasted valuable floor time on the (Democrats' plan) instead of working together in a serious way to pass (Fallin's plan)."

Family: Cousin Janel Has Personal Best

Cousin Janel McCarville, 6-2 (she comes from the branch of the family with height genes) center for the New York Liberty of the WNBA, set a record best for scoring in last night's triple-overtime win over Indiana: 31 points, six better than her previous high of 25.

The Wisconsin native is having her best season yet in four years as a professional.

Hutchison Leaving Finance Chief Post

By Michael McNutt/Capitol Bureau, The Oklahoman ~ Oklahoma's chief financial officer is taking a position with the state's higher education system, it was announced Thursday.

State Finance Director Tony Hutchison, who worked closely in developing the state budget, has accepted a position as associate vice chancellor for strategic planning and analysis with the state Regents for Higher Education. He begins his new duties July 7.

Gov. Brad Henry will appoint a successor. "I appreciate Tony's service and I hate to lose him, but I understand this is a great opportunity and certainly wish him well,” the governor said.

Hutchison has worked about 25 years in the state Capitol, including serving as the state Senate's director of operations and planning and the director of economic research and policy analysis.

He also has held senior level positions with the Council of Governors' Policy Advisors in Washington and the National Conference of State Legislatures in Denver.

Noted Stat

More than 66,000 Oklahomans are licensed to carry concealed handguns under the Oklahoma Self-Defense Act, said Jessica Brown, spokeswoman for the Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation. ~ From A Tulsa World story.

Obama Oklahoma Headquarters To Open

Barack Obama's campaign will open his volunteer headquarters in Oklahoma City on July 7th.

The headquarters is located at 4001 North Classen, Suite 117.

The official opening will be held from 7 to 9 p.m, an announcement said.

Hat tip to www.demookie.com.

Chicago Gun Ban Challenged

From CBS, In Part ~ Chicago has a ban on handguns (similar to DC) and within minutes of today's U. S. Supreme Court ruling, the Illinois State Rifle Association began the court fight to get Chicago's ban overturned as well.

In Chicago, unless your gun was purchased before the ban went into effect in 1982, it is illegal to possess a handgun within city limits.

Only police officers, aldermen and a handful of others are exempt from the ban. While other firearms can be registered, under current law, handguns cannot be registered and are considered illegal.

But gun rights advocates hope to change that. The Illinois State Rifle Association filed a lawsuit with just that purpose in mind at 9:15 a.m.

"We want to overturn this ban. It's pretty onerous. It takes the right of self-defense away from every Chicago citizen," said Richard Pearson, director of the Illinois State Rifle Association.

The National Rifle Association also plans to file lawsuits in Chicago and several suburbs, as well as San Francisco, challenging handgun restrictions there based on Thursday's outcome.

Illinois State Sen. Kirk Dillard said at least one-third of the households in his hometown, Hinsdale, have guns, one of the highest percentages in the state. He hailed the Supreme Court decision, saying, "I think the ruling today is good news. The criminals have guns, but law-abiding citizens should not have their rights jeopardized."

As pleased as Dillard and other suburban Republicans in DuPage County were with the Supreme Court ruling, in Chicago it was a very different story among top democrats.

Mayor Daley, a proponent of strict gun control laws, wasn't happy about the Supreme Court ruling, calling it "a very frightening decision."

"If they think that's the answer ... they're greatly mistaken. Then why don't we do away with the court system and go back to the Old West, you have a gun and I have a gun, and we'll settle it in the streets if that's they're thinking.

"It is frightening that America loves guns," the mayor said, "and to me, I think this decision really places those who are rich and those are in power, they'll always feel safe. Those who do not have the power do not feel safe, and that's what they're saying. If you're elected officials, you feel safe. You cannot carry a gun into a federal building. You cannot carry a gun into a federal court. So they're setting themselves aside, and really, they're saying to the rest of America that the answer to all the constitutional issues is that we can carry guns. And I just don't understand how they came to this thinking."

Gov. Rod Blagojevich said, "the decision of Supreme Court today is very scary and it's a big blow to those of us who believe in common sense gun laws … so they ain't always right and on this case, they're wrong again."

Some experts said the Supreme Court left room for local handgun controls in Chicago and suburbs such as Morton Grove and Oak Park, to survive, but only after a significant rewrite.

Alan Gottlieb, of the Second Amendment Foundation in the state of Washington, told reporters that Chicago's handgun ban has failed to stop violent crime. That has been one of the mantras of the gun lobby.

But a supporter of Chicago's law responded that facts are stubborn things, noting that murder and other gun violence here are far lower than a decade ago, claiming Mayor Daley's stringent gun enforcement deserves much credit.

Maria Ramirez couldn't agree more. She wears her son's picture close to her heart. It's all she has of him; 16-year old Matthew Michael Ramirez died in 2006 after someone pulled a trigger. "I don't want another mother to wake up like I do...look in son's bed, praying it's a bad dream," Ramirez said. "These guns that are gotten legally in the first place end up becoming illegal on the streets."

Pearson said he believes crime only rises with gun laws like Chicago's "because (the) criminal element knows people don't have a firearm for self defense."

That's one reason he was prepared to fight for an individual's Second Amendment rights. "Sure, I think it's an uphill battle … freedom always is." Pearson predicted that the fight that began with the filing of a lawsuit against Mayor Daley and the city at 9:15 a.m. Thursday would take between 18 months and two years to resolve. He said that if the Illinois State Rifle Association loses its lawsuit, it would appeal all the way to the U.S. Supreme Court.

But Chicago's Corporation Counsel Mara Georges said the city shouldn't have to defend its gun law, because the Supreme Court's ruling doesn't apply here. "Our ordinance continues to be valid law. The Supreme Court did not say that the Second Amendment right to bear arms extends to state and local governments and in fact, there's Supreme Court precedent that it does not."

The basic issue for the justices was whether the amendment protects an individual's right to own guns no matter what, or whether that right is somehow tied to service in a state militia.

Justice Antonin Scalia, writing for four colleagues, said the Constitution does not permit "the absolute prohibition of handguns held and used for self-defense in the home."

In dissent, Justice John Paul Stevens wrote that the majority "would have us believe that over 200 years ago, the Framers made a choice to limit the tools available to elected officials wishing to regulate civilian uses of weapons." He said such evidence "is nowhere to be found."

Gun rights supporters hailed the decision. "I consider this the opening salvo in a step-by-step process of providing relief for law-abiding Americans everywhere that have been deprived of this freedom," said Wayne LaPierre, executive vice president of the National Rifle Association.

Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif., a leading gun control advocate in Congress, criticized the ruling. "I believe the people of this great country will be less safe because of it," she said.

With an epidemic of gun violence in Chicago this year, Daley and other officials and activists have been lobbying for stricter state gun laws. But some defenders of gun rights say just the opposite of Mayor Daley, arguing instead in favor of the theories of economist John Lott, now of the University of Maryland. The onetime University of Chicago professor argued in his 1998 volume, More Guns, Less Crime, for a statistical correlation between laws allowing people to carry concealed handguns and a drop in crime rates.

Lott theorized the crime rate dropped because criminals were deterred by the possibility of confronting an armed victim. Lott also claimed the Chicago gun ban was to blame for an increase in crime.

Critics of Chicago's gun ordinance also say the law already aims to keep guns out of the hands of criminals, and that law-abiding citizens should be allowed to possess any firearm they desire.

Oklahoma Victory Challenges Rice

Oklahoma Victory 2008 today issued the following statement: “Andrew Rice’s record on gun control is pretty clear, and it doesn’t match the Supreme Court’s ruling today” said Victory Director Matt Pinnell.

“If Rice is so committed to our 2nd Amendment rights (as he alluded to in a statement today), why was he one of only 6 senators to vote against concealed carry for judges in their own courtrooms (SB 145), voting against it on February 6, 2007 and May 8, 2007?

"If he’s so committed to our 2nd Amendment rights, why did the Oklahoma Rifle Association give him a “D” grade in its 2006 General Election Ratings? Those who earn a 'D' are described as ‘An anti-gun candidate who has frequently voted for restrictive gun control legislation or made strong statements in opposition to Second Amendment rights and regardless of public statements can definitely not be counted on in key votes.’

“If he’s so committed to our 2nd Amendment rights, why didn’t he return this NRA questionnaire in 2006, an indication of “indifference, if not outright hostility, to gun owners’ and sportsmen’s rights?

"If he’s so committed to our 2nd Amendment rights, why was he only one of 7 Senators to vote against allowing district attorneys to carry a loaded concealed firearm on or about his person anywhere in the state for personal protection (SB 763 March 12, 2007)?”

How Will Rice's Liberal Buddies React?

Senate candidate Andrew Rice's embrace of today's U. S. Supreme Court ruling on the 2nd Amendment begs the question: How will his liberal buddies, including Kurt Hochenauer, the "Doc Hoc" of the liberal blog Okie Funk, react since Hochenauer is an avowed firearms opponent? (Pictured: Rice and Hochenauer.)

The Daily Kos is another huge Rice fan that regularly rails against the private ownership of firearms and supports gun control efforts.

Oklahoma City radio and television personality Ron Black, honored by the Oklahoma Rifle Association last year for his outspoken defense of the 2nd Amendment, said today, "Senator Andrew Rice supports the right to keep and bear arms about like Harry Reid supports drilling in ANWR. Rice is correct about how Oklahomans feel about the 2nd Amendment, but we also know a poser when we see one."

Others weighed in today after seeing Rice's comments posted here.

"Isn't this the guy who bragged about helping stop concealed carry on campus?" asked one writer.

"Isn't this a guy with a goober rating from the NRA?" asked another. (If a rating of "?" equals "goober," that might be the case. Here's how the NRA's Institute of Legislative Action describes the rating it gave State Senate candidate Rice in 2006: "Failed to answer NRA-PVF candidate questionnaire, often an indication of indifference, if not outright hostility, to gun owners' and sportsmen's rights.")

Rice Applauds Court's Gun Ruling

After the U.S. Supreme Court struck down Washington D.C.'s hand gun ban, Democratic candidate for the U.S. Senate Andrew Rice issued the following statement:

"The Supreme Court today affirmed what most Oklahomans already know to be true. No government can take away the Constitutional right of individual American citizens to own firearms," Rice said. "This is a victory for the Constitution, but it doesn't mean that we can stop being vigilant about protecting the rights of law-abiding gun-owners. As a U.S. Senator, I will consistently fight to protect the individual rights of every American citizen that are guaranteed by our Constitution."

Liberal Blog Injects Race Into Court Ruling

SoonerThought, a lightly-read blog with a listed address of origin in Kansas City, Missouri, introduced race into the U. S. Supreme Court's 2nd Amendment ruling today.

The blog ridicules the ruling under the headline "Okay, Mr. Saturday Night Special. Feel Better About Yourself Now?"

The post is typical of the historically-uninformed who try to class every firearm into a pejorative collective heap and mistakenly believe the term "Saturday Night Special" somehow encompasses most firearms manufactured and sold today.

The unidentified writer (whom we have identified as someone named Alex Greenwood in Kansas City, MO) obviously is ignorant of the fact that "Saturday Night Special" refers to inexpensive firearms that white nightriders wanted to keep out of the hands of Southern blacks in the years after the Civil War. Blacks and poor whites could not afford more expensive firearms to protect themselves, so they purchased the inexpensive weapons they could afford. The primary targets of laws in the South prohibiting ownership of such firearms were blacks; armed nightriders, most of them wearing white sheets or black and white robes, wanted their prey unarmed and defenseless. Three such opponents of the right to keep and bear arms are pictured.

The earliest law prohibiting inexpensive handguns, or "Saturday Night Specials," was enacted in Tennessee, in the form of the "Army and Navy" law, passed in 1879, shortly after the 14th amendment and Civil Rights Act of 1875; previous laws invalidated by the constitutional amendment had stated that black freedmen could not own or carry any manner of firearm.

The Army and Navy law prohibited the sale of "belt or pocket pistols, or revolvers, or any other kind of pistols, except army or navy pistols," which were prohibitively expensive for black freedmen and poor whites to purchase.

Because the price of a firearm helps to determine who is able to buy it, the elimination of inexpensive firearms has a direct effect upon those of lesser means.

Roy Innis, president of the activist group Congress on Racial Equality, said, "To make inexpensive guns impossible to get is to say that you're putting a money test on getting a gun. It's racism in its worst form." (The Congress on Racial Equality filed as an amicus curiae in a 1985 suit challenging Maryland's Saturday night special/low-caliber handgun ban.)

The Wright and Rossi National Institute of Justice study (p.238) concluded: "The people most likely to be deterred from acquiring a handgun by exceptionally high prices or by the nonavailability of certain kinds of handguns are not felons intent on arming themselves for criminal purposes (who can, if all else fails, steal the handgun they want), but rather poor people who have decided they need a gun to protect themselves against the felons but who find that the cheapest gun in the market costs more than they can afford to pay.

Sources: Wikipedia, NRA, GOA, CORE.

The Gadfly Gets One Right

"I believe the court will overturn the DC gun ban, uphold the Second Amendment, and the vote probably will be five to four." ~ NRA commentator Mike McCarville, May 23, 2008.

Inhofe, Boren, Fallin, Lucas, Edmondson, Applaud Supreme Court's Gun Rights Ruling

Senator Jim Inhofe today applauded the Supreme Court’s decision to overturn the DC Gun Ban law. The decision was 5-4.

“Today’s Supreme Court decision is a landmark victory for the protection of the Second Amendment and those of us who continue to stand up and strongly support gun rights.” Inhofe said.

“The Supreme Court is exactly right when it states ‘The Second Amendment protects an individual right to possess a firearm unconnected with service in a militia, and to use that arm for traditional lawful purposes, such as self-defense within the home.’"

Said Congresswoman Mary Fallin: “The court made the right decision in upholding the principles of the Second Amendment. Law-abiding Americans have the right to the responsible ownership and use of handguns for sporting purposes and self defense. I am proud of the court majority, which overturned a law that was not only clearly unconstitutional, but out of step with the beliefs of a huge majority of Oklahomans.”

Said Congressman Dan Boren, a member of the NRA's Board of Directors: “This is a victory for law abiding gun owners all across the United States. As a staunch supporter of the Second Amendment, this decision renews my commitment to uphold every Oklahoman’s right to protect themselves and their family.”

In February Boren, along with hundreds of his colleagues in Congress, filed with the Supreme Court a brief for amicus curiae, or a “friend of the court” brief, contesting the constitutionality of D.C.’s ban on armed self-defense. He is also Co-Vice Chair of the Congressional Sportsmen Caucus which is one of the largest bipartisan caucuses in Congress.

“Today, the Supreme Court stood up for the individual rights of the people living and working in our nation’s capitol,” said Congressman Frank Lucas. “The Heller decision has righted a 30 year wrong and I wholeheartedly agree with it.”

Attorney General Drew Edmondson applauded the ruling, noting that Oklahoma was one of 31 states that joined a "Friends of the Court" brief arguing the DC gun ban is unconstitutional.

Charles Smith, executive director of the Oklahoma Rifle Association, told KTOK radio that the ruling ends the thought espoused by some that the 2nd Amendment is "a collective right." He said it clearly is an individual right to keep and bear arms.

“Today’s ruling proves Barack Obama is supremely wrong when it comes to gun control,” said Matt Pinnell, Director of Oklahoma Victory. “Unlike Senator Obama and his liberal gun-grabbing buddies, Oklahomans know law-abiding citizens have the right to own firearms to protect their families. Obama’s long anti-gun history just doesn’t fit with Oklahoma and his support of gun control is proof that he’s the most liberal member of the U.S. Senate.”

Among state legislators applauding the court's decision was Senator Don Barrington of Lawton, who said, “The U.S. Supreme Court got this one right. The founding fathers intended the Second Amendment to protect the rights of individual Americans to own guns, and we finally have a ruling from the high court that the liberal gun-grabbers have gone too far in trying to take away our gun rights.”

Barrington is a member of the Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucus and a member of the National Rifle Association. “This is excellent news for gun owners and for all Americans who want to own guns for hunting or to protect their families and homes,” said Barrington.

High Court Upholds 2nd Amendment

From Fox News ~ The Supreme Court says Americans have a right to own guns for self-defense and hunting, the justices' first major pronouncement on gun rights in U.S. history.

The court's 5-4 ruling strikes down the District of Columbia's 32-year-old ban on handguns as incompatible with gun rights under the Second Amendment. The decision goes further than even the Bush administration wanted, but probably leaves most firearms laws intact.

The court had not conclusively interpreted the Second Amendment since its ratification in 1791.

[The ruling is a victory for Oklahoma Attorney General Drew Edmondson and members of the state's congressional delegation, all of whom argued the DC gun ban is unconstitutional. Congressman Dan Boren, D-2nd District, is a new member of the board of directors of the National Rifle Association, which spearheaded the fight against the gun ban.]

The amendment reads: "A well regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed."

The basic issue for the justices was whether the amendment protects an individual's right to own guns no matter what, or whether that right is somehow tied to service in a state militia.

Justice Antonin Scalia, writing for four colleagues, said the Constitution does not permit "the absolute prohibition of handguns held and used for self-defense in the home."

In dissent, Justice John Paul Stevens wrote that the majority "would have us believe that over 200 years ago, the Framers made a choice to limit the tools available to elected officials wishing to regulate civilian uses of weapons."

Child-rape Ruling Scuttles State's Law

By Barbara Hoberock/Capitol Bureau, Tulsa World ~ Action by the U.S. Supreme Court on Wednesday tossed out a recently enacted Oklahoma law calling for the death penalty for repeat child molesters.

The nation's high court, ruling in a Louisiana death penalty case, limited capital punishment to those who commit murder.

In the Louisiana case, Patrick Kennedy had been on death row for raping his 8-year-old stepdaughter.

The Oklahoma Legislature in 2006 passed and Gov. Brad Henry signed Senate Bill 1800, which allowed for the death penalty for repeat child molesters.

The measure covered forcible anal or oral sodomy, rape, rape by instrumentation or lewd molestation of a child under the age of 14 years old. It applied to anyone with a prior offense of those crimes. The law took effect July 1, 2006.

At the time of passage, one of the measure's authors, Sen. Jonathon Nichols, R-Norman, said he thought the U.S. Supreme Court would agree that raping a child is so heinous and horrific that it justified the death penalty. Nichols, at the time, said he believed the earlier court decision banning the death penalty for rapists only applied to those who rape adults. On Wednesday, he called the decision heartless.

"Child molestation and rape is as every bit as devastating to a life as murder," said Sen. Jay Paul Gumm, D-Durant, who proposed legislation calling for the death penalty for repeat child molesters. His measure was later included in Senate Bill 1800. "It kills the soul. I believe it is worthy of the highest punishment we can mete out."

Charlie Price, a spokesman for Oklahoma Attorney General Drew Edmondson, said no inmates are on death row as a result of the new law. The office is working to determine if any cases are pending.

The court's 5-4 decision struck down a Louisiana law that allows capital punishment for people convicted of raping children under 12. It spares the only people in the U.S. under sentence of death for that crime — Kennedy and another Louisiana man, convicted of raping a 5-year-old girl.

However devastating the crime to children, Justice Anthony Kennedy wrote in his majority opinion, "the death penalty is not a proportional punishment for the rape of a child."

Blue Dog Democrats Eye Senate Races

By Mike Soraghan/The Hill ~ Blue Dog Democrats, frustrated that their fight to end deficit spending has been stymied by the Senate, may endorse candidates running for the upper chamber.

Leaders of the group told The Hill on Wednesday that they are considering plans to formally back and contribute to Senate candidates running in November.

“I expect you could see the Blue Dog PAC get involved in some Senate races this year,” said Blue Dog Rep. Mike Ross (D-Ark.).

Read the entire story at http://thehill.com/leading-the-news/bluedogs-seek-a-hunting-ground-in-upper-chamber-2008-06-25.html.

LGBT Leader Apologizes For 'Iwo Jima' Ad, Says Candidates Are 'Blameless'

By Michael McNutt/Capitol Bureau, The Oklahoman ~ The co-chairman of a state political organization apologized Tuesday for an ad supporting several Democratic candidates that depicted four shirtless men posed similar to the famous photograph of five Marines and a Navy corpsman raising the American flag on Iwo Jima during World War II.

Jones Says Ad 'Reprehensible'

"We did not have permission from the candidates whose names appeared in the ad and they did not approve the ad beforehand,” said Steve VanHook, co-chairman of the Oklahoma Stonewall Democrats. "They are blameless in this. ... I'm really sorry if this creates a problem for any of our candidates.”

VanHook said his group used the photograph in other ads for more than a year, but last week's ad that appeared in two weekly Oklahoma City newspapers was the first time it was used in supporting Democratic candidates.

"We apologize as well not only to the candidates but to any veterans who took offense at the ad,” VanHook said.

[Jones' comments added by TMRO.] Republican State Chairman Gary Jones said, "I was surprised to see Michael McNutt's article today in The Oklahoman titled, 'Reference by Oklahoma Stonewall Democrats to Iwo Jima improper, some say' and not see a response from any Republican. McNutt called me yesterday for my comments and I responded that this was way over the line, that this is trash and any candidate that accepts support from any group that would do this will pay the price come November.

"Simply calling this in poor taste is not enough. Jim Roth's comment about appreciating the support of the Stonewall Democrats will be remembered by Oklahomans that find the comparison of 'their struggle' to those who gave their lives and blood sacrificing for our freedom is nothing less than reprehensible.

"Roth, Rice and the others endorsed by this group should denounce the organization, return any financial contributions and disassociate themselves. Those you associate with do matter and Oklahoma voters believe that, too. This November Republican, Democrat and Independent voters will express their choices at the polls and yes, they will remember."

VanHook, whose organization is a branch of the national Stonewall Democrats, which defines its objective as striving for equal rights for all people regardless of sexual orientation, said he found the picture of the four men raising a banner on the Internet. The picture won't be used by the group again, he said.

The intent of the picture was to show "the nearly insurmountable odds of our struggle for equality,” VanHook said. It also was intended to open discussion on the group's opposition to the military's "don't ask, don't tell” policy, which prohibits any homosexual or bisexual person from disclosing his or her sexual orientation.

Robert A. Manchester III, an Oklahoma City attorney who co-founded the U.S. Marine Corps War Memorial Flag Detail, said he came across the ad Tuesday morning while waiting for his wife to get ready for work.

"It was improper,” said Manchester, whose organization works to ensure an appropriate flag is always flying in Washington over the statue depicting the Iwo Jima flag raising — one of the most famous events of World War II. "I was offended by the caricature. I was startled that they would do that. It was a misuse of a heroic event.”

Ivan Holmes, chairman of the Oklahoma Democratic Party, said the ad was not in good taste, and he faulted the group for not first contacting the candidates. "It makes it look like they're all a part of that,” he said.

Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner Jim Roth, who is seeking a full six-year term, said he's thankful for the Stonewall Democrats' support, but wished they would have "voiced it in a more appropriate way.”

Voters likely won't hold it against him or other candidates in the ad when they go to the polls. Roth said.

"Oklahomans are fair-minded people,” he said. "They listen and weigh the candidates on what they say themselves.”

Ethics Commission Sets July 11th Meeting

Ethics Commission Chairman Don Bingham says the agency will detail its request for more funding at a July 11th meeting.

He also said the Commission will ask Governor Henry and legislative leaders for a $238,000 supplelmental appropration.

The agency has threatened to sue the Legislature over what Commission members say is a lack of adequate funding. They contend the Oklahoma Constitution mandates "adequate" funding but the Legislature has not given it enough money to do its job.

Charlie Black Apologizes For Remark

From Fox News ~ A top campaign official for John McCain was forced to issue an apology Monday after, according to a published article, the adviser said a terror attack would be a “big advantage” for McCain’s presidential prospects.

McCain chief political strategist Charlie Black was discussing McCain’s national security credentials with Fortune magazine, and said that McCain’s support grows when public attention turns to disasters like the December assassination of former Pakistan Prime Minister Benazir Bhutto.

Black called Bhutto’s death an “unfortunate event,” according to a Fortune piece published Monday. “But his knowledge and ability to talk about it reemphasized that this is the guy who’s ready to be Commander-in-Chief. And it helped us.”

Fortune also quoted Black as saying of a terror attack on U.S. soil: “Certainly it would be a big advantage to him.”

Obama Pulls Plug On New Seal

Succumbing to an avalanche of criticism, Barack Obama's campaign has apparently decided to back away from its trial balloon of a new presidential seal.

A campaign spokesman now says it won’t be used again: “That was a one-time thing for a one-time event,” Robert Gibbs told CNN about the rather intricately designed seal that made its debut last Friday.

The new seal was unveiled on Obama's podium when he spoke to a group of Democratic governors.

Friends Of NRA Donates To Murray State

Tishomingo ~ Thanks to a grant from The NRA Foundation Friends of NRA program Murray State College received a $2,000 grant to underwrite the MSC Summer 2008 NRA Gunsmithing & Law Enforcement Armorer School.

“We are very excited about this program and pleased that the NRA is making an investment in our community,” stated Dean Arnold, NRA program coordinator.

Friends of NRA is a grassroots, community-minded program supported by gunowners, sportsmen and NRA friends that conducts banquets and other fundraising events to generate income for the NRA Foundation.

Last year, the Friends of NRA raised over $11.7 million through events in 990 communities nationwide.

The NRA Foundation has awarded 395 grants totaling over $1.1 million for charitable programs in Oklahoma.

Gazette Ad Has Some Hopping Mad

An advertisement placed in the Oklahoma Gazette by the Oklahoma Stonewall Democrats has some who have seen it hopping mad.

The ad pictures four muscled young men without shirts raising the LGBT banner on a mountaintop...the exact pose seen in the famous photo of Marines raising the American flag over Iwo Jima in World War II.

The ad supports Democrats, including openly gay Corporation Commission Jim Roth and U. S. Senate candidate Andrew Rice, among others.

"What an insult to Marines everywhere," one writer said.

Wrote former State Rep. Thad Balkman, Norman Republican: "It should serve as another reminder that the Democratic Party is really not for family values at all. (Remember when they say, 'equality', what they really are saying is 'special rights' i.e. to redefine marriage). Nor do the Democrats have much reverence and respect for our military veterans, as evidenced by the photo in the ad. Please share this disappointing reminder to your friends and neighbors who may be tempted to vote for Obama or some other Democrat this fall."

Wrote another: "This will get a few Marines -- and any patriot in general -- pretty worked up. I'm pretty worked up...."

Jones Dominates Online Poll

Gary Jones dominated our poll of possible replacements for former Auditor & Inspector Jeff McMahan.

The Republican Party chairman, defeated by McMahan in 2002 and 2006, was selected by 51 percent of the almost 300 who voted.

Democrat Robert Butkin was selected by 16 percent. Acting Auditor Michelle Day, a Republican, was selected by 11 percent.

"None of the above" got 10 percent. Democrat Laura Boyd got 6 percent, "Any Democrat" got 6 percent and only one voter picked "Any Republican."

Governor Henry will pick McMahan's replacement.

Obama Toys With Presidential Seal

Maybe he did it to appear more presidential...maybe an artsy type in his campaign had an idea and Obama decided to try it out...maybe Obama plans a do-over of the seal if he's elected. At any rate, here's the Democratic nominee with his "seal," unveiled last week to some snickering in the press corps and considerable snickering on conservative blogs.

Factcheck: Newsweek Says Obama Wrong

From www.newsweek.com ~ Barack Obama announced he would become the first presidential candidate since 1972 to rely totally on private donations for his general election campaign, opting out of the system of public financing and spending limits that was put in place after the Watergate scandal.

One reason, he said, is that "John McCain's campaign and the Republican National Committee are fueled by contributions from Washington lobbyists and special interest PACs."

We find that to be a large exaggeration and a lame excuse. In fact, donations from PACs and lobbyists make up less than 1.7 percent of McCain's total receipts, and they account for only about 1.1 percent of the RNC's receipts.

Parmley Adds South Carolina Post

Former Oklahoma Democratic Party leader Jay Parmley, now an employee of the Democratic National Committe, has added the post of interim director of the South Carolina Democratic Party.

South Carolina party Chairwoman Carol Fowler said Parmley will take over Saturday. Parmley was interim director before the just-resigned director was hired. Parmley remains a DNC employee.

Noted (Old) Quote

“My estimation is (McMahan) will be indicted,” he said. ~ Gary Jones, 11/8/06.

Noted Quote

"He (Governor Henry) will appoint a Democrat (to replace Jeff McMahan). The right thing to do is appoint Gary Jones to the position. That is the most fair thing to do," Gaddie said. "In politics, we never do the fair thing. We do the political thing." ~ OU political science professor, pollster, author and political observer Keith Gaddie, as quoted in the Tulsa World.

NRA Chief To Speak In Oklahoma City

Wayne LaPierre, executive vice president of the National Rifle Association, will be the featured speaker at this year's Oklahoma Rifle Association awards banquet on August 16th, ORA officials announced.

LaPierre is among the nation's recognized experts on the 2nd Amendment and is known for his robust defense of the right to keep and bear arms.

Tickets purchased before 9 August are $35 per person and are eligible for the "Early Bird Drawing." After August 9, tickets are $40 each. Tickets may be purchased by mail from the ORA, PO Box 850927, Yukon, OK 74085-0927 or on the ORA website.

T. Boone Says No 527 Dollars This Year

Texas oilman and Oklahoma State University benefactor T. Boone Pickens, who gave $3 million to the Swift Boat Veterans for Truth and who numerous Republican sources said was being looked to as a 527 funding source this year, is sitting the race out.

“He is not giving anything to 527s involved in the presidential race this cycle, and has communicated that…to Republican strategists and operatives,” said Pickens spokesman Jay Rosser.

The comment came in an article posted on The Politico at http://www.politico.com/news/stories/0608/11220.html.

Poll Shows Obama Leading McCain

Democrat Barack Obama has a narrow 5-point lead on Republican John McCain in the U.S. presidential race, but holds a big early edge with the crucial swing voting blocs of independents and women, according to a new Reuters/Zogby poll.

Two weeks after clinching the Democratic nomination and kicking off the general election campaign, Obama leads McCain by 47 percent to 42 percent. That is down slightly from Obama's 8-point advantage on McCain in May, before Senator Hillary Clinton of New York left the Democratic race.

But Obama holds a big 52 percent to 30 percent edge among independents and 51 percent to 36 percent among women -- two critical voting blocs that could help determine the winner in November's presidential election.

Blogger Says AP Owes Her $132,215

Blogger Michelle Malkin says The Associated Press owes her at least $132,215. To see what that's all about, go to www.michellemalkin.com.

Republicans Raise $21.5 Million

From Fox News ~ The Republican campaign committees raised a total of $21.5 million at the annual President’s Dinner on Wednesday night, despite the absence of the presumptive presidential nominee and a loss of hundreds of thousands of dollars in an internal accounting scandal at the National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC).

While many Republicans blame President George Bush for the backlash against the party over the last two years, his ability to fundraise is still strong. Early this year, Bush helped raise $8.6 million for House candidates.

The bar for the 2008 dinner was lower than last year’s event. However, the fundraising environment surrounding the 2008 dinner was much more dour for the GOP. Three special-election losses and the disclosure that a former NRCC official allegedly transferred $725,000 — including funds partially raised from last year’s dinner — into his personal and business bank accounts caused GOP morale to sag.

The dinner is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the House and Senate Republican congressional campaign committees.

Dinner chairmen Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-Utah) and Rep. Jeb Hensarling (R-Texas) helped raise the $8 million and $13.5 million for their respective campaign committees.

“Our high level of member participation should signal to those following House races that Republicans are helping ourselves by marshaling the resources necessary to hold Democrats accountable for $4 [per gallon] gas prices while they engineer the largest tax increase in American history,” said Hensarling.

The NRCC exceeded its goal by $1 million. The National Republican Senatorial Committee raised $1.5 million more than its target amount.

Both GOP campaign committees, however, lag far behind their Democratic counterparts.

Jones, Butkin Top Online Poll

Republican Gary Jones (left) and Democrat Robert Butkin (right) are leading thus far in The McCarville Report Online's unscientific poll concerning a replacement for resigned Auditor & Inspector Jeff McMahan.

Jones has about 47 percent, and Butkin about 16 percent among readers who have cast their votes. If you've not yet voted, please do so at right; to view current results, click on the "view" button.

Inhofe Welcomes Oklahoma 4-H Students

Senator Jim Inhofe met this week in Washington with about 50 Oklahoma 4-H students, shown in this photograph.

Rice Backers Caught Skewing Poll

Backers of U. S. Senate candidate Andrew Rice have been caught skewing a poll on Senator Jim Inhofe's website, the blog Green Country Values reports. For the entire story, go to http://greencountryvalues.wordpress.com/2008/06/18/andrew-rice-supporters-sabatoge-jim-inhofes-online-poll/.

Obama Taps David Boren, Sam Nunn

Barack Obama today named University of Oklahoma President David Boren and former Georgia Senator Sam Nunn to a senior advisory committee on national security.

Boren and Nunn jointly announced their support of Obama during the Democratic presidential primary.

Boren and Nunn are members of what Obama (pictured arriving at the Democratic National Committee headquarters for the group's first meeting) calls his Senior Working Group on National Security that will advise him on foreign policy. The group's first meeting is today in Washington.

Other members are former Secretaries of State Madeleine Albright and Warren Christopher and former Defense Secretary William Perry, and former Congressmen Lee Hamilton of Indiana and Tim Roemer of Indiana.

Shelton Schedules Hearing On 4-Day Week

State agencies and their employees will have a chance to discuss the possibility of moving to a four-day workweek at a public hearing at the State Capitol Wednesday, July 9th. The meeting will be held in room 432A from 10 a.m. until noon, Rep. Mike Shelton, D-Oklahoma City, announced today.

Shelton and officials of the Oklahoma Public Employees Association (OPEA) have been at the forefront of a national push to allow government employees to work condensed schedules that, they said, could save money for employees and agencies, as well as taxpayers.

A survey on the OPEA website shows most state employees favor the idea.

Is Banker Steve Burrage A Candidate To Replace McMahan In Auditor's Post?

The name of Antlers banker Steve Burrage is the latest to surface as Governor Brad Henry ponders a replacement for resigned Auditor & Inspector Jeff McMahan.

Sources tell The McCarville Report Online that Burrage likely is "a very strong candidate if he's really interested."

An inquiry to Burrage, chairman of the board of FirstBank of Antlers, about his interest, if any, as yet has not been answered.

Burrage is a longtime Democratic Party donor, comes from a politically-connected family, is a former chairman of the Oklahoma Bankers Association, serves on the board of the Oklahoma City branch of the Federal Reserve, is a member of the board of The State Chamber and is highly respected as a banker and businessman. He and other family members won praise from the Banking Board in 2000 when they took over a troubled bank in Atoka and turned it around.

Burrage supported John Edwards for president and was a donor, along with other prominent family members, including former U.S. District Judge Michael Burrage and Senator Sean Burrage of Claremore. The Burrages contributed a combined $13,000 to the Edwards campaign, including $2,300 from Steve Burrage. He also was a substantial donor to Congressman Dan Boren.

Burrage is a graduate of Antlers High School and the University of Oklahoma.

Other names in the speculation include Democrats Robert Butkin, former treasurer; Laura Boyd, former House member and gubernatorial nominee; Republicans Michelle Day, who has been running the auditor's office since January; and Gary Jones, present GOP chairman who lost to McMahan in 2002 and 2006.

Tulsa Blogger Supports Jones

The widely-read BatesLine, Tulsa-based blog of Republican activist Michael Bates, is calling for the appointment of Republican State Chairman Gary Jones to replace convicted former Auditor & Inspector Jeff McMahan.

Bates notes that McMahan narrowly defeated Jones in their 2002 race for the office and that testimony in McMahan's trial showed a huge influx of illegal donations near the end of the campaign probably allowed McMahan to win.

Bates writes, "We now know that Jeff McMahan won that election in part because of massive amounts of illegal campaign money, including $157,882 from Steve Phipps, a business partner with Gene Stipe in abstract companies regulated by the State Auditor's office."

Read all of Bates' editorial at www.batesline.com and vote in our poll on the right side of this page.

Bob Burke Named To Oversight Committee

Oklahoma City attorney, author and former director of the David Boren Administration's Department of Commerce Bob Burke was appointed today to a committee which will oversee improvements to the Ford Center.

City Council members approved the appointment this morning.

Burke has become one of the state's best-known historians; he has written 70 books about political and other leaders.

Miller Responds To Special Session Idea

House Budget Committee Chairman Rep. Ken Miller said today the request by the Ethics Commission for a special session to address its funding and threat of a lawsuit "seems to show a disregard for the taxpayer's money."

“The Legislature was able to show support for the Ethics Commission with a record 30 percent increase this year, despite a standstill budget for almost every other agency,” said Miller, R-Edmond. “Their request for an expensive special session and threat of a lawsuit fails to recognize the progress that has been made and seems to show a disregard for the taxpayer’s money. We are always willing to discuss additional funding needs as they arise and plan to continue a dialogue with the Ethics Commission throughout the interim, just as we will with all state agencies.”

Is This An Argument For Gary Jones?

In 2002, the election that disgraced former Audior & Inspector Jeff McMahan stole from Republican Gary Jones based on court testimony in McMahan's trial, Jones received 487,646 votes.

In that same election, Democrat Brad Henry got 448,143 votes in the governor's race, about 39,500 less than Jones, and became governor.

Is that an argument in favor of Henry appointing Jones to replace McMahan? Offer your comments below and vote in our poll at right.

Meanwhile, for considerable background and insight into Affair McMahan, read David Arnett's story at www.tulsatoday.com.

Henry Seeks Federal Disaster Assistance

Governor Henry today sent a letter to U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Ed Schafer requesting disaster assistance for farmers and ranchers in nine northwest Oklahoma counties suffering from drought and extreme weather conditions.

Extreme heat, dry weather, high winds and stressful moisture conditions have damaged hay forages, livestock grazing lands, alfalfa, and other crops. The request for assistance covers farmers and ranchers in Cimarron, Texas, Beaver, Harper, Woodward, Ellis, Roger Mills, Dewey and Woods counties.

Ethics Committee Wants Special Session; Henry Says That Would Be Premature

From The Tulsa World's Capitol Bureau ~ Oklahoma ethics commissioners want the governor to call a special session because they say the watchdog agency does not have enough money to carry out its duties.

The governor's office quickly replied Tuesday that a special session would be premature.

In a letter to Gov. Brad Henry, ethics chairman Don Bingham of Tulsa said, "We ask that you take the extraordinary step of calling the Legislature into special session for the sole purpose of creating and sending to you a bill that appropriates sufficient funding for the State of Oklahoma Ethics Commission."

The governor's spokesman, Paul Sund, said that Henry is willing to sit down again with legislative leaders and discuss the need, but having a special session would be premature without first reaching a specific funding agreement with legislative leaders

Memo To Lori McMahan: Shame On Who?

Two years ago, Auditor & Inspector Jeff McMahan's wife, now a convicted felon, issued this, in which she outlined "Gary Jones’ Five Most Shameful Lies."

She wrote, "Republican Gary Jones is running for State Auditor of Oklahoma with the motto 'an auditor you can trust.' So just how much can he be trusted? I’m Lori McMahan, and I’m tired of the trash-talking, headline grabbing nonsense about my husband coming from Gary Jones and his supporters. Jeff has been advised to ignore these frantic efforts to tarnish his reputation since they’re an obvious attempt to gain traction in a race where Jones is hopelessly behind. They’ve told Jeff to remain on the positive message of his exceptional accomplishments as State Auditor. But I’m not going to sit by and let Jones drag a courageous, honest public servant through the mud with appalling lies and outlandish innuendoes. It would be almost impossible for me to respond to them all, but here are Gary’s five most shameful lies, along with the truth. Shame on you, Gary!"

[The "shameful lies" that Mrs. McMahan outlined formed the basis of the federal charges against her and her husband, and their convictions on conspiracy and bribery counts.]

Company

Election Board Strikes Johnson Protest

The State Election Board today ruled against Rep. Rob Johnson's protest of fellow Republican Dana Murphy's candidacy.

The board ruled Murphy did not invalidate her filing by signing her name one way when she already had signed it another way, with a middle initial. She had been instructed to do so by Election Board Secretary Mike Clingman.

Said Murphy: "This is a victory for common sense government and the people of Oklahoma."

Said Trebor Worthen, Johnson's spokesman: "We will respect the Election Board's ruling and will let the voters decide which Republican candidate is best able to beat Jim Roth in the general election."

McMAHAN RESIGNS

Auditor & Inspector Jeff McMahan has just resigned.

"It is with sadness and regret that I resign my position as Oklahoma State Auditor and Inspector effective immediately," read the one sentence letter of resignation submitted to Governor Henry.

A federal jury in Muskogee on Saturday convicted McMahan and his wife Lori of one count of conspiracy and two counts of accepting bribes.

Meanwhile, Oklahoma Republican Party Chairman Gary Jones said appointing him would be the only fair thing to do. Jones lost two elections to McMahan, whose campaign received illegal donations.

"I'll probably ask to have a meeting with the governor," Jones said.

Paul Sund, a spokesman for Henry, said Henry's office will begin the process of finding someone to replace McMahan. He said he would not get into "who is in and who is out."

Said Sund: “Gov. Henry received Jeff McMahan’s resignation letter this morning. The governor will now begin the process of appointing a new state auditor and inspector.

“Gov. Henry believes it is critical to restore public trust in the auditor’s position, and he will move carefully and as expeditiously as possible to select an individual who can do just that.”

McMahan's resignation came first thing this morning and as sources began saying it had occurred, it was the Tulsa World's Capitol Bureau that first reported it as official.

TVPoll, working for KWTV, asked Oklahomans several months back how they would prefer such a vacancy be filled and found that most of those polled wanted either a special election or legislative confirmation of a replacement named by the governor.

EDITOR’S NOTE: On Monday morning, State Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan delivered a letter of resignation to the governor’s office. Under the Oklahoma Constitution, the governor is charged with appointing a replacement when a statewide elected official leaves office before the end of his or her term. During his time in office, Gov. Henry has made three such appointments: Insurance Commissioner Kim Holland, State Treasurer Scott Meacham and State Corporation Commissioner Jim Roth.

Pressure Builds On McMahan To Resign

Pressure is building today on Auditor & Inspector Jeff McMahan to resign that post after his Saturday conviction on three felony counts in federal court.

Governor Henry has called on him to resign immediately and The Oklahoman's lead editorial today said he "must" do so.

House Speaker Chris Benge said he should resign and if he does so, he will save time and money since if he does not, a House committee formed to consider his impeachment will have to begin work. With his conviction, it seems likely the committee would recommend that Articles of Impeachment against McMahan be adopted.

High Court Ruling On 2nd Amendment Due

WASHINGTON(AP) -- One momentous case down, another equally historic decision to go. The Supreme Court returns to the bench Monday with 17 cases still unresolved, including its first-ever comprehensive look at the Second Amendment's right to bear arms.

The guns case - including Washington, D.C.'s ban on handguns - is widely expected to be a victory for supporters of gun rights. Top officials of a national gun control organization said this week that they expect the handgun ban to be struck down, but they are hopeful other gun regulations will survive.

The Gadfly On The Wall

Gary Jones Had It Right: Auditor & Inspector Jeff McMahan is the latest in an unfortunate string of Oklahoma public officials convicted of felony behavior while in office. With his wife, Lori, Democrat McMahan now stands convicted of bribery and conspiracy, the result of his long association with southeastern Oklahoma bagman Steve Phipps. McMahan, as Governor Henry suggests, should immediately resign and get the hell out of state government. The governor, by law, will appoint a successor. It is unlikely the governor will heed my counsel, but it is my opinion, based on testimony in McMahan's trial that the 2002 election he narrowly won was "stolen" from Republican Gary Jones (pictured), that Jones should be appointed, or offered the job. That would be poetic justice, but I'll not hold my breath that the governor, a Democrat, will appoint a Republican and especially the current Oklahoma Republican Party chairman. A lot can be said about Jones, not all of it flattering, but the bottom line is that this tenacious guy had McMahan figured out six years ago and it took a federal investigation to prove it. How much better a watchdog of public funds could we find than a guy with that kind of nose for corruption?

What's Up With Watts? Former Congressman J. C. Watts reacted swiftly Saturday after we posted an excerpt from a national AP story about black political figures conflicted over the Obama-McCain contest. The AP writer said Republican Watts is considering voting for Obama. Watts reacted by saying that conclusion is the writer's interpretation of what he (Watts) said. Watts also was quoted in the article as being less than enamored of GOP outreach. In all, it was an odd set of quotes from the man who, with the help of Congressman/Consultant/Mentor Tom Cole, at one time was a rising star on the national GOP scene. While TMRO was the first (so far as we know) to see and report the Watts portion of the AP story (Watts was buried deep into the story), that story is now posted on dozens of television network websites and blogs, none of which (so far as we can find) are using the statement Watts issued after we posted the story.

$4 Gasoline: In my much younger days, I rode a Cushman scooter and a Whizzer Eagle motorcycle. I am reverting. Soon, this conveyance will be my in-the-city method of transport. At 75-80 MPG, it is my attempt at going green.

Henry: McMahan Should Resign

Governor Henry said today Auditor & Inspector Jeff McMahan should resign immediately.

The statement by Henry: “Auditor McMahan has had his day in court and a jury of his peers has spoken. In light of the guilty verdict, I believe he should resign his office immediately so the State of Oklahoma can move forward under the leadership of a new state auditor and inspector. It is critical to restore public trust in that position.

“As governor, it will be my duty to appoint a successor. I will begin that process as quickly as possible.”

Statement From J. C. Watts

Former Congressman J. C. Watts this afternoon issued this statement after The McCarville Report Online posted part of an Associated Press story in which Watts is quoted as saying he is considering voting for Democrat Barack Obama. Here is Watts' statement:

It has come to my attention that an Associated Press article on black conservatives indicates many are considering voting for Barack Obama for president in November. The writer refers to me and states, "(Watts) said he's thinking of voting for Obama." That is the writer's interpretation of my statement.

If recent polls are accurate, a large percentage of Evangelicals and minority conservatives are leaning to or have committed to Senator Obama. I am not one of them.

Like many Republicans across the nation, I consider myself a "free agent" this year, which is what I told the AP. Presidential candidates are going to have to work to earn my vote, and not assume it.

I'm urging my friends and associates to follow their hearts in November. I'm hopeful, as the course of the campaign plays out, that Senator McCain will work as hard to merit our votes as he is for other voters, that he would give them reason to vote for him in November.

The article further lists some of my concerns with the Republican Party over its lack of outreach to the black and Evangelical communities. Those concerns are true, and anyone who has spoken to me or read my writings in recent months and years should not be surprised by that position.

But I regret to conclude that the GOP leadership -- the party I embraced and for whom I have worked diligently across the nation -- has come to place evangelicals and Republicans who are concerned about the black community, in the same boat. It seems the party leadership is taking this loyal group of voters for granted and no longer feels the need to work for our votes.

McMAHANS CONVICTED

MUSKOGEE ~ A federal jury today convicted state Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan and his wife on three corruption-related counts.

The Oklahoman's Tony Thornton reports: The jury acquitted the McMahans on five mail fraud counts, but convicted them on one conspiracy count and two Travel Act violations. The Travel Act violations involve trips the couple took at the expense of a businessman whose companies were regulated by the auditor's office.

A judge allowed the McMahans to remain free on their own recognizance pending sentencing.

Prosecutors previously said convictions would result in likely prison terms under federal sentencing guidelines.

Three jurors appeared to wipe tears as or after the sentences were read. As they filed out of the courtroom about 2:15 p.m., none looked at the McMahans.

Jeff McMahan, 48, seemed to choke up as the guilty verdict on the first count of conspiracy was read, then exhale as the judge announced "not guilty" to the first of the five mail fraud counts.

His wife,43, sat clutching her husband's wrist but showed no emotion as the verdicts concerning her were read.

Jeff McMahan's attorney, Rand C. Eddy, said he was "extremely disappointed" by the verdicts. He said it's unclear whether his client will resign.

The auditor faces a likely impeachment trial if he doesn't step down.

Lori McMahan's attorney, Kevin Krahl, said his next step is to "just go figure out the sentencing possibilities ... evaluate our options and go from there."

Assistant U.S. Attorney Gay Guthrie, who has led the government's prosecution of several corruption cases that began with Phipps, said he has "tremendous respect" for the criminal justice system.

"In that respect, I accept this jury's verdict. I will move on to the next case."

Stunner: J. C. Watts Considers Obama

From The Associated Press ~ J.C. Watts, a former Oklahoma congressman who once was part of the Republican House leadership, said he is thinking of voting for Democrat Barack Obama.

Watts said he is still a Republican, but he criticizes his party for neglecting the black community. Black Republicans, he said, have to concede that while they might not agree with Democrats on issues, at least that party reaches out to them.

"And Obama highlights that even more," Watts said, adding that he expects Obama to take on issues such as poverty and urban policy. "Republicans often seem indifferent to those things."

McMahan Jury Resumes Deliberations

Jurors resumed deliberations today in the federal corruption trial of Auditor & Inspector Jeff McMahan and his wife, Lori, after failing to reach a verdict in eight hours of discussions on Friday.

Jurors were given the case about 3 p.m. Friday after four hours of closing arguments from prosecutors and defense attorneys.

After prosecutors finished their arguments, U.S. District Judge James H. Payne dismissed one of the nine counts against the couple.

Eight felony counts, including conspiracy, mail fraud and accepting bribes, stem from the McMahans' association with southeast Oklahoma businessman Steve Phipps and could mean prison terms for them.

The Gadfly On The Wall

McMahan: Who's telling the truth? Jeff McMahan, who testified he knew nothing about nothing, never did political favors and never looked at the family checkbook, and Lori McMahan, who testified she did it all and Jeff didn't know anything about it...or Tim Arbaugh, McMahan's former right hand, who says McMahan knew all about it and was part of it, and Steve Phipps, the disgraced felon behind the whole mess who says McMahan was his partner in crime for five years or so?

Explanation Needed: The two members of the Election Board who recused themselves from the challenge to Corporation Commission candidate Dana Murphy's filing need to explain why they took that action. The Friday hearing ended with no action and is now slated for Monday after Governor Henry appoints two interim members to hear Rep. Rob Johnson's complaint. Recusals for legitimate reasons are quite proper; but the public has a right to know what those reasons are. Board members Tom Prince and Ramon Watkins owe us an explanation.

Tim Russert: The Meet The Press host collapsed and died of an apparent heart attack on Friday. Proof positive that one just never knows when the road ahead ends.

Beware: A man of the cloth (as in, pastor of a church) is my latest disappointment in humanity. Pastor X and his wife occupied one of our rental properties, which when they moved in had just been completely redecorated and was pristine, back in late January. In the last month of their occupancy, this family managed to stain carpets in the den and sunroom beyond cleaning, break door handles and water faucets, break light fixture glass, crack a sink countertop and leave the place looking like it hadn't been cleaned in years. And have failed to live up to the financial agreement we made to allow them out of the one-year lease when their church bought them a parsonage. I am of two thoughts: Better applicant screening might be in order, and beware of "Christians" who do dishonor to the word.

Hoot Hoot: My last post on the huge owl in the back yard cries out for this update: There are TWO of the huge ones. They are still there, swooping the yard regularly for prey. Thus far, I see no signs they've scored, but they are hanging around for a reason. I hope it is not that they are attracted to my bald head.

Senseless: That there are cretins in society is not news; that at least one, and possibly two, visited Okfuskee County on Sunday last and took the lives of two young girls shakes us to the core. So close to home and safety, on familiar ground, they are gone and forever young. [There is worldwide interest in this case; CNN posted a link to TMRO and the artist's rendering shown below and in a short time Friday evening, we'd received a bajillion hits from all over the world.]

Does This Man Know Something?

Authorities on Friday released a sketch of a “person of interest” in the slayings of two Weleetka girls. Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation spokeswoman Jessica Brown said that several witnesses had come forward to report they had heard shots in the area and one reporting seeing a man standing outside a pickup truck at the time of the slayings. The person of interest was described as an American Indian or mixed race male, who is about 35 years old and stands about 6 feet tall. He was driving a white pickup that was either a Ford or Chevrolet.

McMahan Case Goes To Jury

The jury in the federal trial of Auditor & Inspector Jeff McMahan and his wife, Lori, began deliberations around 3 p.m. Friday after hearing nearly four hours of the attorneys' closing statements.

The Tecumseh couple face eight counts of conspiracy, mail fraud and accepting bribes.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Gay Guthrie asked the jury to pay attention to the word "deniability" for Jeff McMahan.

It was a word used in taped conversations Lori McMahan had with ex-auditor's employee Tim Arbaugh and Kiowa businessman Steve Phipps whose abstract companies the auditor's office regulated.

Lori McMahan has testified that she was talking about "cover stories" that she would tell authorities regarding accepting illegal cash donations from Phipps.

Guthrie said that Jeff McMahan used Arbaugh and even his own wife to do his dirty work. "He can't just take the cash envelope himself," Guthrie said.

Rand Eddy, attorney for Jeff McMahan, asked jurors not to believe Phipps' testimony.

Tim Russert Dies Of Heart Attack

From Fox News ~ Tim Russert was big wherever he went — in politics, in television, in writing — and even in a suit.

Russert, the hard-hitting but big-hearted moderator of NBC's "Meet the Press," died at work Friday at age 58 of a reported heart attack.

Russert, who also was in charge of NBC News' Washington bureau, is survived by his wife, Maureen Orth., and his son, Luke.

A noticeably shaken Tom Brokaw made the announcement live from New York on the NBC network, saying his colleague collapsed and died early Friday afternoon in the network's bureau in Washington

The Unkindest Cut Of All

"When she comes on television, I involuntarily cross my legs." ~ MSNBC commentator Tucker Carlson on Hillary Clinton.

Chaos At The Election Board; Murphy Candidacy Challenge Delayed To Monday

The Election Board today postponed hearing a challenge to Republican Corporation Commission candidate Dana Murphy after two members of the three-member board recused themselves.

Board members Tom Prince of Edmond and Ramon Watkins of Tulsa each stepped aside Friday from hearing the challenge against Corporation Commission candidate Dana Murphy. They did not give a reason for recusing themselves from the case.

Election Board Secretary Mike Clingman said Governor Henry will appoint two interim members to hear the case with the remaining board member, Susan Turpen of Oklahoma City.

The hearing now is scheduled for Monday morning. The challenge was filed by Rep. Rob Johnson of Kingfisher, who opposes Murphy for the Republican nomination for the two-year, unexpired term on the Corporation Commission now held by Democrat Jim Roth.

Johnson claims that Murphy altered a notarized document by signing her name differently than it appeared on her filing declaration of candidacy form. A video of the filing shows Election Board Secretary Mike Clingman advising Murphy to do so, and marking through one signature after she added a second signature.

Sooner Poll: 'Exceptional Approval' For Governor Brad Henry, Not So For Bush

From Sooner Poll ~ Although a majority of Oklahomans feel that America is headed in the right direction, many are not confident of the national or state economy; Governor Brad Henry received exceptional approval; rural residents are six times more likely to say that the Oklahoma economy is depressed.

SoonerPoll.com, a public opinion research firm in Oklahoma City, conducted the telephone poll of 664 registered voters and non-registered Oklahoma residents April 24-May 15. The poll’s margin of error was 3.8% and results were weighted by MSA, political label and sex.

Elected Officials Approval: In this report, official approval and economic evaluation are analyzed.

The following sections break down results to questions of approval for President George W. Bush, Governor Brad Henry, Senator Jim Inhofe and Senator Tom Coburn. Answers for Bush approval were on a 7-point scale and answers for the Governor and two Senators are simply approve or disapprove.

Bush ended the study with an approval (total) rating of 43% with 20.3% of the total sample strongly approving and 44.1% strongly disapproving, likewise 70.5% for Henry, 51.6% for Inhofe and 58.3% for Coburn.

To read the entire survey, go to http://soonerpoll.com/pdfs/LikelyVoter_Report1_Toplines.pdf.

State Chamber Honors 19 Legislators

The State Chamber of Oklahoma presented 19 state legislators with the Defender of Free Enterprise Award. The recipients were honored Thursday for their leadership on issues important to Oklahoma’s business community at the Chamber’s Annual Meeting.

The legislators are the first to receive the award. They were honored for their outstanding effort to further The Chamber’s mission.

“Our mission is to make Oklahoma the state of choice for business,” said Richard P. Rush, president and CEO of The State Chamber. “We need to recognize state policy leaders and legislators who put forth outstanding efforts to further our mission.”

The recipients are: House Speaker Chris Benge, Reps. Fred Jordan, Guy Liebmann, Scott Martin, Steve Martin, Ken Miller, Ron Peterson, Kris Steele, Mike Thompson, Susan Winchester, John Wright and Senators Roger Ballenger, Brian Bingman, Harry Coates, Glenn Coffee, Kenneth Corn, Brian A. Crain, Mike Johnson and Mike Morgan. Representing more than 2,000 Oklahoma businesses, The State Chamber has been the state’s leading advocate for business since 1926.

OIPA Honors Brian Bingman

Senator Brian Bingman, R-Sapulpa, has been named "Legislator of the Year" by the Oklahoma Independent Petroleum Association.

He was cited for his sponsorship of Senate Bill 1475, which will create research program at colleges and universities focusing on oil and natural gas exploration and production.

Tom Cole Proud Alleged Embezzlement At NRCC Caught On His Watch

By Jackie Kucinich/The Hill In Washington ~ National Republican Congressional Committee (NRCC) Chairman Tom Cole (Okla.) acknowledged Thursday that the total financial damage from an alleged embezzlement scheme by a former employee may never be known, but that he was proud his team discovered the irregularities that led to a federal investigation into the committee’s book keeping.

“We’ll never know the full extent,” Cole told reporters Thursday. “I mean there is a dollar damage we have an estimate there could be more.”

“It’s clearly damaging in terms of the amount of time it’s taken, the betrayal of colleagues, successive chairmen...but on the other hand we are the ones that found it, we are the ones who reported it, and we are the ones who fixed it and I’m very proud of my committee for that,” he added.

Cole said that the cost of the investigation was roughly $400,000 less than he had originally anticipated and likely will be topping out at between $500,000 and $600,000.

He also took at subtle shot at his predecessors at NRCC, saying that many of the improvements -- such as beefing up the accounting division of the campaign committee -- were long overdue improvements.

“I told somebody it’s a little bit like buying a 30-year-old house and then having to put in new plumbing, new floor, new roof, that sort of thing then have to sell it,” Cole said. “You know that’s just the reality of it. Those bills fell due on my watch, but they are wise investments and they are investments that I’m pleased we’ve made.”

The accounting recommendation was one of several made by Covington and Burling who ran the internal investigation for the NRCC. It concluded that Republicans should hire a chief financial officer expand, formalize their accounting practices and put in place increased oversight over procedures that relate to the NRCC banking statements and books.

On Jan. 28, the NRCC discovered that no 2006 audit was conducted. By March, the committee learned that their former treasurer Christopher J. Ward allegedly fabricated audits since 2002. Ward was hired at the NRCC in 1995 and became treasurer in 2003. He left the committee in 2007 but remained on as a consultant.

Robert Kelner, a partner at Covington & Burling who is outside legal counsel for the NRCC, said that an additional audit of the 2007 books would have to be done before they could apply for loans for the 2008 election cycle.

Cole said he was confident the audit would be completed before the November election and that the committee would be eligible for future loans.

“Since 2001, it appears that Chris Ward, the former treasurer caused a loss to the NRCC of approximately $725,000,” Kelner said.

Kelner back away from a much larger figure in March which placed the estimated loss at nearly $1 million.

“I tried to caution the media at the time....not to focus too much on the $1 million figure,” he said. “The $725,000 is PricewaterhouseCoopers' best estimate of what the loss was going back as far as we can in the records which is 2001.”

McMahan: Crimes Came As A Surprise

By Susan Hylton/Tulsa World In Muskogee ~ Oklahoma State Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan testified Thursday that he didn't know of the crimes being committed during and after his 2002 campaign and that he didn't know that his wife, Lori McMahan, was involved.

But it all became clear on Aug. 23, 2007, he said in the eighth day of testimony in Muskogee federal court, where he and his wife are on trial on charges of conspiracy, mail fraud and accepting bribes.

That was the day the FBI served a search warrant at his Tecumseh home and his wife confessed her illegal activities to him, he said.

Jeff McMahan's voice became shaky and his eyes watery at that point in his testimony. What did he learn that day? "That my wife had done something wrong," he said softly. Lori McMahan dabbed her own tears with a tissue.

While Jeff McMahan said he accepts responsibility for the things that went wrong in his campaign, he also said the following crimes occurred without his knowledge: $157,882 in illegal "straw donor" and in-kind contributions were made to his 2002 campaign, bankrolled by Kiowa businessman Steve Phipps, whose abstract companies were regulated by the auditor's office. The McMahans took all-expense paid trips to New Orleans and Boston, funded by Phipps. Lori McMahan accepted cash donations from Phipps for campaign signs and radio spots.

Lori McMahan failed to return a ring and matching earrings that she had received from Phipps, who purchased them at a New Orleans jewelry shop for about $2,140, after Jeff McMahan said he told her to return them.

But he did not admit that Phipps ever received anything in return for the money and gifts. "I haven't done any political favors for anyone," he said.

McMahan said he didn't learn that Phipps' partner in the abstract companies was former state Sen. Gene Stipe, D-McAlester, until that partnership was publicized in 2005. "Everything I knew about Gene Stipe was not favorable," said McMahan, also a Democrat.

Because Stipe is a convicted felon, McMahan said he thought the abstract companies' certificates of authority were invalid by law and that he felt public pressure to do something about it.

Despite legal advice from his office as well as from the Attorney General's Office, McMahan moved to revoke the license of Phipps and Stipe as owners of Phipps Enterprises, a holding company of several abstract companies, as well as a third partner, Larry Witt, who operated an abstract office in Stillwater.

"I wanted to shut them down," he said. Phipps and Tim Arbaugh, a former employee of the auditor's office, have previously testified that McMahan's action was exactly what Phipps wanted him to do.

At the time, Stipe had filed a civil suit against Phipps over ownership of the abstract companies, and Phipps thought the state's move to revoke their license because of Stipe's status as a felon would help him in that lawsuit, they both said. McMahan said he "wasn't real thrilled" that the majority of his campaign contributions were coming from the abstract industry.

"However, it became clear to me that if we didn't raise $300,000, we weren't going to win," he said.

Jeff McMahan said his predecessor, Democrat Clifton Scott, introduced him to Phipps and described him as a good man who could help him raise campaign funds.

In describing what he thought was supposed to be an educational trip with Phipps' abstract company employees aboard a bus bound for New Orleans, Jeff McMahan said Phipps instead played a video of the new auditor being hypnotized during a party.

"I should have got off the bus. It was embarrassing," McMahan said.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Gay Guthrie tried to suggest in his cross-examination that McMahan must have known that his wife's jewelry was worth more than $300, the legal limit for gifts in 2003. "It didn't look that expensive," McMahan said.

McMahan said he tried to return a $5,000 contribution from Stipe but that political consultant Pat Hall assured him that it wasn't illegal as long as it was accompanied by a contributor's statement. "He said, 'Jeff, you don't raise money — you don't win,' " McMahan said.

Both the defense and prosecution have rested. The jury will hear closing statements Friday and then are expected to begin deliberations.

McMahan's Memory Seems 'Mistaken'

By Tony Thornton/The Oklahoman, Blogging From Muskogee ~ During his testimony Thursday, Jeff McMahan made repeated references to taking action or being unaware of alleged improprieties until “after it came out in the paper.”

In some cases, his memory was mistaken. However, jurors don’t know that.

A couple examples: In answer to a question from his attorney, Rand C. Eddy, McMahan said he was unaware of an alleged effort to stall a permit request for a new abstract company in McCurtain County until he read it in the paper. However, that matter didn’t surface until last week, when witnesses testified about it at the auditor’s trial. A new company would have broken up a monopoly by admitted co-conspirator Steve Phipps. Under cross-examination, McMahan said he told a campaign worker for his 2006 campaign not to accept any money from so-called “Phipps people.” The reason, he said, was that the media had begun reporting possible straw contributions involving Phipps to various political campaigns, including McMahan’s 2002 campaign. However, that information didn’t become public until March 2007.

Prosecutors didn’t confront the auditor about those time lapses.

McMahan Admits He Lied To FBI Agents

By Tony Thornton/The Oklahoman In Muskogee ~ State Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan admitted in federal court today that he gave investigators different stories about jewelry given to his wife, Lori, by southeast Oklahoma businessman Steve Phipps.

McMahan and his wife are on trial on eight federal felony counts related to their association with Phipps, whose abstract companies were regulated by the auditor's office.

Yesterday, Lori McMahan, 43, spent nearly three hours under cross-examination by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Roberts, who tried to point the inconsistencies in her stories.

Jeff McMahan said under oath today that the first time he was questioned by the Federal Bureau of Investigation, he said Phipps only gave his wife a set of $50 earrings. The second time he questioned, however, McMahan said his wife received two pieces of jewelry, but he thought she had returned them.

McMahan also denied being present at dinner at a restaurant in Shawnee, where his wife was given $10,000 in cash for McMahan's election campaign. McMahan told the jury that he has never done any political favors for anyone.

McMahan was expected to be on the witness stand the rest of the day today.

Earlier, Lori McMahan, a fifth-grade schoolteacher, admitted telling lies to her husband, to her alleged co-conspirators and to the FBI but said she began telling the truth on Aug. 23, 2007. That was the day FBI agents searched the McMahans' home in Tecumseh.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Roberts tried repeatedly to elicit an admission that Jeff McMahan, 48, knew about cash, jewelry and trips Phipps provided. Each time, Lori McMahan said she kept her husband in the dark.

Daily Kos Poll Finds Rice Unlikely To Win

Democrat Senator Andrew Rice’s viability against incumbent Republican U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe is already being called into question by even the most loyal of his supporters.

Markos Moulitsas Zúniga, founder of the leading liberal blog Daily Kos, commissioned a poll of Oklahoma likely voters June 9-11 and published the results today.

The poll tested opinions surrounding the U.S. Senate race, asking if voters would vote for Jim Inhofe or Andrew Rice if the election were today.

Unfortunately for Rice, even Zúniga had trouble finding a silver lining in the results, concluding: “Tough? Obviously. Likely? Nope.” He adds that it is possible, however, for Rice to win.

The poll results show Inhofe in a commanding lead with 53 percent and Rice with 31 percent.

Nonetheless, the poll analysis claims it shows Inhofe is vulnerable provided Barack Obama runs well in Oklahoma and claims as well that the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee has pledged to send up to 10 field representatives into the state for the Rice campaign. That alone should raise half a million or so for Inhofe. But DSCC Chairman Chuck Schumer didn’t even include Oklahoma in the “long shots” category in a recent interview with DC publication Roll Call (“Schumer Sees Big Nov. Gains,” Erin Billings, 6/12/2008). Just months ago, Schumer was calling Rice a candidate who would “surprise people.”

“Whether it’s fighting for lower prices at the pump, supporting our men and women in uniform, or representing our shared Oklahoma values, Senator Inhofe is someone who we can be proud of in the U.S. Senate. I believe that as the campaign continues, he will earn even more support as Oklahomans hear his positive message and vision for the future of our state,” said Matt Pinnell, Oklahoma Victory 2008 Director.

McMahan Expected To Take The Stand

By Tony Thornton/The Oklahoman In Muskogee ~ State Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan is expected to testify this afternoon in his federal court trial.

McMahan and his wife, Lori, face eight federal felony counts related to their association with businessman Steve Phipps, whose abstract companies were regulated by the auditor's office.

Yesterday, Lori McMahan, 43, spent nearly three hours under cross-examination by Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Roberts, who tried to point the inconsistencies in her stories.

The fifth-grade teacher admitted telling lies to her husband, to her alleged co-conspirators and to the FBI but said she began telling the truth on Aug. 23, 2007. That was the day FBI agents searched the McMahans' home in Tecumseh.

Roberts tried repeatedly to elicit an admission that Jeff McMahan, 48, knew about cash, jewelry and trips Phipps provided. Each time, Lori McMahan said she kept her husband in the dark.

Her testimony followed a nearly four-hour delay in the trial Wednesday, caused by what was described only as a juror issue. U.S. District Judge James H. Payne resumed the trial Wednesday afternoon with no explanation about the issue. All 12 jurors plus two alternates were present for the afternoon testimony.

Murphy Confident She'll Be On Ballot

Republican Corporation Commission Dana Murphy says she's confident she will remain on the ballot despite a challenge filed against her by fellow Republican Rob Johnson.

Murphy, speaking with host Reid Mullins on radio station KTOK this morning, says she simply followed the instructions of Election Board Secretary Mike Clingman in filing out and signing her declaration of candidacy.

Johnson challeged her filing, saying the signature of "Dana L. Murphy" was crossed out and replaced with "Dana Murphy." Murphy said that's what Clingman advised when he asked how she wanted to be listed on the ballot and she told him "Dana Murphy."

The Election Board is expected to rule on the matter at a hearing tomorrow.

Caudill Faces Class Action Lawsuit

It appears today a class action lawsuit may be filed against Oklahoma County Clerk Carolynn Caudill over the exposure of Social Security numbers on the clerk's website earlier this year.

It is known that several Oklahoma City attorneys are working on a possible lawsuit.

Last March, the Social Security numbers of thousands were found on Caudill's official website. The numbers were contained on numerous documents filed of record in the county and were easily found by anyone with computerized research experience.

Despite the ease with which the numbers could be found at that time, there were no reports of identity theft.

The McCarville Report Online found the Social Security numbers of numerous prominent Oklahoma County residents with ease and in no case did we find a document where the Social Security number had been redacted, or blacked out, as is required under federal law.

Caudill has since had the Social Security numbers redacted. Her primary election opponent, fellow Republican Stan Inman, former county commissioner, has criticized Caudill over the issue.

MSM Not Happy With News Bloggers

By Youssef M. Ibrahim ~ The “silly season” of journalism is a well-known phenomenon occurring in summer, when days are long, the news is short, and not enough lawmakers are getting caught with their pants down in toilets, or otherwise.

This year it is being amplified with stinging meanness against blog journalism, the new kid on the block that contests primacy in advertising and news coverage with the establishment media.

Read all of this blog column at http://pajamasmedia.com/blog/mainstream-media-picking-on-bloggersagain/.

Lori McMahan: 'I can go down for that...'

"The cash that you gave me, you know, 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." ~ Lori McMahan to Steve Phipps, as secretly recorded by Phipps for the FBI in a Shawnee restaurant last year.

Is All Not As It Seems With McMahans?

By Tony Thonton/The Oklahoman, Blogging From Muskogee ~ Outside Muskogee’s federal courthouse, cameras have captured Jeff and Lori McMahan holding hands while walking toward their trial site.

Inside the courthouse is another story.

During lengthy conferences between attorneys and U.S. District Judge James H. Payne, the couple rarely speak to each other. Lori McMahan reads a novel. Four feet way, her husband studies papers or stares downward.

Wednesday morning, 50 minutes passed that way, neither acknowledging the other, as attorneys met in Payne’s chambers to discuss a juror issue.

However, one moment during his wife’s testimony apparently touched the state auditor. It happened Tuesday as his wife tearfully recalled telling him one day last August what she had just told the FBI: that she had committed crimes to help him win election in 2002 and had accepted jewelry and cash from a businessman whose companies her husband’s office regulated.

“I offered to pack my bag and leave if he wanted to,” Lori McMahan said, adding that her husband declined her offer.

That testimony, followed immediately by Lori McMahan’s statements about her husband’s integrity, caused the auditor to wipe an apparent tear from the corner of one eye.

McMahan Trial: Does This Make Sense?

Muskogee (From www.tulsaworld.com) ~ Jeff McMahan spent a career probing the misuse of public funds as a former investigative auditor and now the Oklahoma state auditor and inspector, but he's had few dealings with his personal checkbook, his wife, Lori McMahan, testified Wednesday.

In the seventh day of testimony in U.S. District Court, where the McMahans are on trial on eight counts alleging conspiracy, mail fraud and the acceptance of bribes, Lori McMahan said she has always handled the family finances.

Read the entire story: http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/article.aspx?articleID=20080612_11_A1_hDAYOF579317.

'Juror Issue' Delays McMahan Trial

MUSKOGEE ~ The federal trial for state Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan and his wife was delayed nearly four hours today for what was described as a juror issue. It's not clear what the issue was.

Lori's 'Memory Gaps' To Be Trial Issue?

By Tony Thornton/The Oklahoman, Blogging From Muskogee ~ The table was set. Lori McMahan would either testify against her husband or, preferably, convince him to plead guilty to a felony and resign as the state auditor and inspector.

In return, she would receive immunity for her admitted crimes involving businessman Steve Phipps, whose companies were regulated by the auditor’s office.

The deal was nixed when Lori McMahan couldn’t recall whether her husband attended a 2002 dinner meeting where Phipps handed her $10,000 in cash.

Jurors will hear about that Wednesday at the criminal trial of Jeff and Lori McMahan. They’re likely to also hear prosecutors question Lori McMahan about her memory gaps concerning key events.

The proposed deal for her immunity was made at the FBI office in Oklahoma City in late October. The fifth-grade teacher remembers the approximate date because she was wearing a Halloween sweater, the same one she’d worn to school that day.

The meeting occurred two months after the FBI served a search warrant on the McMahans’ home in Tecumseh. During the search, Lori McMahan admitted she had accepted cash and jewelry from Phipps. A prosecutor suggested she gave conflicting versions when confronted with inconsistencies.

“I had made a mistake, and I was willing to take responsibility for my sins,” she said, explaining her reason for the admission.

Assistant U.S. Attorney Gay Guthrie wasn’t impressed with some of Lori McMahan’s answers during a hearing outside the jury’s presence to determine whether she could testify about the immunity offer.

“The point of all this is, she lied then (to the FBI), and she’s lying now,” Guthrie told U.S. District Judge James H. Payne.

Payne ruled that the auditor’s wife can testify about the immunity offer.

Lori McMahan: I Did It All, He Never Knew

By Susan Hylton/Tulsa World In Muskogee ~ The wife of Oklahoma State Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan shed tears on the witness stand Tuesday as she recounted the day she said she told her husband everything.

She had accepted cash — about $10,000 — to buy signs and radio spots for his 2002 Democratic political campaign from an abstract company owner whose industry her husband regulated. She said he never knew that until the day the FBI searched their house five years later.

Lori McMahan's testimony for the defense started Tuesday in U.S. District Court in Muskogee, where she and her husband face eight counts of conspiracy, mail fraud and accepting bribes from Kiowa businessman Steve Phipps in exchange for favors. She offered to pack her bags and leave, but her husband told her he loved her and that they would solve everything, she testified.

The McMahans are accused of accepting more than $157,000 in illegal donations, two all-expenses-paid trips to New Orleans, more than $2,000 in jewelry, and a trip to Boston for the 2004 Democratic National Convention, all bankrolled by Phipps.

Lori McMahan said her husband told her they couldn't let Phipps pay for the first New Orleans trip, so she told him she would reimburse Phipps but never did. It was on this first trip that Lori McMahan said Phipps gave her a ring, which records show cost $1,640, that she had admired in a jewelry shop showcase earlier that day. She said Phipps handed her a box with the ring inside in the presence of her husband as they were gathered in the McMahans' hotel room overlooking Bourbon Street to ride out a tropical storm.

"It kind of made me uncomfortable because it was not from a husband, father or son," she said. Later, she said, her husband told her the gift was inappropriate because his office regulated the abstract industry.

Lori McMahan said she justified her acceptance of the gift to her husband by convincing him that the ethics rules allowed gifts of up to $300, even though she suspected that the ring was worth more than that. In addition, she said, the women on the trip told her that Phipps bought jewelry for women he knew all the time. She said she never considered it a bribe, nor did she return any favors to Phipps by influencing the activities of her husband's office. Her husband asked her to return the ring after it was publicized that Phipps was under investigation for allegedly bribing lawmakers to steer state funds to a dog food plant he owned with former state Sen. Gene Stipe, D-McAlester, she said. She told her husband that the ring was gone, but she said she had actually loaned it to her sister to wear to a wedding.

About 30 people were on the second trip to New Orleans that McMahans attended with Phipps and many of his abstract company employees. She said she used the ethics manual again to convince her husband that their acceptance of the trip was proper if they considered it a continuing education trip in which he would teach a course for the abstract employees.

Several witnesses have testified that Jeff McMahan has little if any knowledge of the abstract industry.

Lori McMahan said her husband did not end up teaching on the trip. She said he relied on Tim Arbaugh, a former employee of the Auditor's Office, to devise an outline to teach a course but that he never followed through.

Lori McMahan said she accepted a pair of earrings that matched the ring from Phipps on the second New Orleans trip as they stood in the hotel lobby. "It was either that or make a scene," she said. But she said she still didn't feel bribed. "I just thought he was a nice man with lots of money because he bought lots of gifts for people," she said.

While Phipps and Arbaugh have testified that Jeff McMahan asked Phipps to pay for a $3,500 trip to Boston to attend the Democratic National Convention, Lori McMahan said she told her husband that the trip was funded by their tax return. She kept their household checkbook, and they didn't discuss financial matters much, she said. "He trusted me," she said of her husband.

She said Arbaugh was in his office when he gave her the cash for the DNC trip, which she remembers as $3,000 originating from Phipps. Arbaugh has previously testified against his former boss, saying he was aware of the "straw donors" to McMahan's campaign and many other parts of a conspiracy.

But other employees and former employees from the Auditor's Office testified Tuesday and vouched for Jeff McMahan as being truthful and honest.

Those witnesses included Terri Jo Ross, Jim McGoodwin, Mickey Gunkel and Chris Stephens.

When testimony continues Wednesday, defense attorney Kevin Krahl is expected to ask Lori McMahan about a purported deal offered by the U.S. Attorney's Office. With the jury absent, Lori McMahan said she was told that she wouldn't be indicted if she would testify that her husband was present during a cash transaction with Phipps at a Garfield's restaurant in Shawnee. Tearful again, she said she would have taken the deal if the account were true because she doesn't want to go to prison and leave her children.

State Official Arrested In AG's Office

By Randy Ellis/The Oklahoman ~ The deputy director of the Oklahoma Merit Protection Commission was arrested Tuesday on a complaint of refusing to leave the state attorney general's office when requested.

Austin Gilley was placed on administrative leave with pay last week after a dispute with Susan Bussey, director of the Merit Protection Commission. Gilley allegedly used a state computer to e-mail "inflammatory” information , Bussey said.

An assistant attorney general sent Gilley a letter Friday demanding that he return commission data backup tapes.

Charlie Price, spokesman for Attorney General Drew Edmondson, said a problem developed Tuesday morning when Gilley showed up at the attorney general's office with a briefcase.

Gilley turned over the tapes, but refused to provide passwords unless someone in the attorney general's office would take the whole briefcase. The employee refused to take it, and a call was made to state Department of Public Safety officials, who then made the decision to arrest Gilley, Price said.

'Hillary for veep? Are you mad?'

"Hillary for veep? Are you mad? What party nominee worth his salt would chain himself to a traveling circus like the Bill and Hillary Show? If the sulky bearded lady wasn't biting the new president’s leg, the oafish carnival barker would be sending in the clowns to lure all the young ladies into back-of-the-tent sword-swallowing. It would be a seamy orgy of scheming and screwing. Hillary could never be content with second place. But neither could an alpha male like Obama. The vice-president should be an accomplished but subordinate personality. An Obama-Hillary ticket might tickle party regulars, but it would be a big fat minus in the general election. Republicans have shrewdly stockpiled a mammoth arsenal of past scandals to strafe Hillary with. Only a sentimental masochist would want to relive the tawdry 1990s." ~ Camille Paglia writing on www.salon.com.

Meacham: State Revenue Shows Strength

From www.tulsaworld.com ~ Oklahoma's revenue collections are showing renewed strength heading into the final month of the fiscal year, according to State Treasurer Scott Meacham's monthly report.

After falling short of the estimate and prior year each of the past four months, revenue collections in May were up primarily due to strong energy prices.

Preliminary reports show that general revenue fund collections for May totaled $493.6 million, according to the report. That is $58.4 million, or 13.4 percent, above the prior year. It's also $80.7 million, or 19.6 percent, above the estimate.

"High energy prices, while a burden on consumers, are providing added revenue to fund state services," Meacham said. "We continue to also see strength in personal income tax collections, reflecting a healthy job market. Corporate income tax collections, on the other hand, remain well below expectations. We see this primarily as a reflection of national economic conditions."

Pat Hall Defends McMahan As 'Truthful'

By Tony Thornton/The Oklahoman In Muskogee ~ The political consultant who oversaw both of Jeff McMahan's campaigns testified today he considers McMahan to be truthful and honest, but added that he was sickened to learn that McMahan's wife accepted jewelry from businessman Steve Phipps.

Pat Hall testified as a defense witness at the criminal trial of Jeff and Lori McMahan. The state auditor and his wife each face nine felony counts related to Phipps, whose abstract companies were regulated by the auditor's office.

Hall testified that he still finds Jeff McMahan to be truthful, "even when it might hurt him."

However, on cross-examination by a federal prosecutor, Hall testified about a "damage control meeting" held at his house as McMahan faced increasing newspaper scrutiny over his association with Phipps. Outside the courtroom, Hall said he thinks the meeting was in March 2007.

The meeting included the McMahans, Hall and two staffers from the auditor's office: Terri Watkins, his liaison to the media; and Michelle Day, the office attorney. Hall said the meeting was designed to make sure "things didn't spin any further out of control."

Terrill: Cauthron's Ruling Undermined

A judicial ruling to halt implementation of the private employer provisions of House Bill 1804, the state's omnibus anti-illegal immigration law, was undermined this week by a presidential executive order, state Rep. Randy Terrill noted today.

"It was clear from the very beginning that Judge Cauthron's ruling was inconsistent with recent decisions in other similar cases, most notably in Missouri and Arizona," said Terrill, a Moore Republican who authored House Bill 1804.

"Now Present Bush's executive order makes it obvious the judge's ruling was wrong and should be overturned."

Last week, Judge Robin Cauthron issued a ruling that prevents implementation of the private employer provisions of House Bill 1804. Those provisions would have required employers contracting with the state government to verify that their employees are not illegal aliens by using a simple federal database (E-Verify), allowed Oklahoma citizens to sue an employer who fired them while retaining an illegal alien to perform the same job, and required businesses to check the citizenship status of independent contractors.

In that ruling, Cauthron claimed "federal law prohibits use of the Status Verification Systems to verify employment eligibility."

That claim was contradicted this week by President George W.Bush when he issued Executive Order 12829, which requires anyone contracting with the federal government to use the E-verify system.

Bush's order stated, "It is the policy of the executive branch to enforce fully the immigration laws of the United States, including the detection and removal of illegal aliens and the imposition of legal sanctions against employers that hire illegal aliens" and noted that E-verify "provides the best available means to confirm the identity and work eligibility of all employees that join the Federal workforce."

"Judge Cauthron claimed federal law does not allow the use of E-Verify to ensure an employee is a legal citizen or resident of the United States, but now President Bush has ordered federal officials to use the system for that explicit purpose," Terrill said. "It's clear the judge's decision was based on an incorrect reading of the law."

Terrill noted that other complaints of House Bill 1804 opponents are also falling apart.

Although business groups claim E-Verify is burdensome for employers, Stewart Baker, an assistant secretary for policy at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security, recently wrote, "In fact, it's a bit less burdensome than ordering books for the first time from Amazon.com."

Dan Boren Won't Endorse Obama

Washington (From The Tulsa World's Washington Bureau) ~ U.S. Rep. Dan Boren, D-Okla., said Tuesday he will not endorse Barack Obama for president.

"I still remain very concerned about the (Obama) voting record being the most liberal of the United States Senate,’’ said Boren, a superdelegate to this summer’s national Democratic convention in Denver.

He expressed support for what he described as a "centrist” agenda, adding his party’s presumptive nominee’s record does not reflect that approach.

"Having said that, I am voting for Democrats this year,’’ Boren said.“I think it is very important that we have a change of direction in this country because we cannot afford the policies of George Bush to keep moving.’’

He said the nation’s economy is in a terrible state with a housing crisis and record level gas prices, and the country has a foreign policy that is not well thought out.

Decision Soon On Ethics Panel Lawsuit?

The Ethics Commission apparently will decide soon if it will file a lawsuit against the Legislature over what its members say is a lack of funding for the agency.

Commission Chairman Don Bingham says a lawsuit is being discussed despite a move that freed up an additional $50,000 for the ethics panel. Governor Henry vetoed a requirement for the commission to spend $50,000 on campaign reporting software that commissioners said they didn't need or want.

The commission wants at least one more investigator, but lawmakers didn't authorize a new position.

For the 2009 fiscal year, the Ethics Commission will get about $667,000, a 30 percent increase. The commission requested about $906,000.

Bingham said the commission's budget does not provide enough money to fulfill the requirements established in a constitutional amendment in 1990 that created it.

Meacham Opposes Shawnee I-35 Casino

State Treasurer Scott Meacham is the latest public official to oppose the proposed Shawnee tribal casino on Interstate 35 in northeast Oklahoma City.

The Shawnee Tribe wants to build a 2,000-machine casino and 18-story hotel less than two miles from Remington Park, the horse racing track and casino.

Meacham, in a letter to the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs, said the proposed casino "would clearly result in reduced gaming revenues for Remington Park and the central Oklahoma tribes. We are approaching a near saturation of gaming and 'destination casinos' in Oklahoma."

The tribe has asked those who oppose the casino to withhold judgment about the project until public comment is sought next year. Tribal officials have said the project would cost about $400 million and create about 1,900 jobs.

Among those opposing the project are Governor Henry, Senators Tom Coburn and Jim Inhofe, Congresswoman Mary Fallin and Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett.

McMahan's Campaign Manager Says 'Hands Off List,' 'The Dead List' Raised Suspicions

By Tony Thornton/The Oklahoman, Blogging From Muskogee ~ Jeff McMahan’s chief fundraiser for his 2006 re-election campaign faced two huge obstacles. She dubbed them “The Hands Off List” and “The Dead List.”

Combined, those two lists accounted for the largest single source of money for McMahan’s first campaign in 2002. Now, the people on those lists were untouchable, Erin Bradshaw testified Monday.

Bradshaw had worked a governor’s race in North Dakota and two other political races in Kansas when, in 2005, she was brought in to help get McMahan re-elected as state auditor and inspector.

As she delved into McMahan’s campaign contribution reports from 2002, she noticed a large number were tied to abstract company owner Steve Phipps. Some were clerical workers who gave as much as $5,000, which Bradshaw said raised red flags.

She said McMahan instructed her not to contact those people.

“Anybody that was somebody Phipps might be involved with, I was to be hands off with,” Bradshaw testified.

That included former state Sen. Gene Stipe and the 2002 donors tied to him. Stipe and Phipps were secret business partners in 2002. By 2006, they were suing each other, and both were under FBI investigation.

“The Stipes were completely off the table (for campaign money), because there was so much publicity by then,” Bradshaw testified.

The dead list, Bradshaw explained, includes donors from a candidate’s previous campaign who have either died since then or indicated they don’t want to be bothered for another contribution.

One such person was Ancel Arrington, an Edmond accountant who gave $2,700 in 2002. Bradshaw said she was sitting across from McMahan, making fundraising calls, when McMahan relayed this message that Arrington had just told him: “I only gave in ‘02 because somebody told me to, and I will never give again.”

Arrington did accounting work for Larry Witt, who in 2002 co-owned some abstract and title insurance companies with Phipps. By 2006, Phipps was under FBI investigation, and both Witt and McMahan were distancing themselves from him.

Agent Says McMahan Gave Conflicting Stories; Prosecution Rests In Auditor's Trial

By Tony Thornton/The Oklahoman ~ State Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan gave conflicting stories during three interviews about Pittsburg County businessman Steve Phipps, an FBI agent testified today.

Agent Steve Kaitcer was among the final prosecution witnesses at the criminal trial of Jeff and Lori McMahan, who face nine felony counts related to Phipps.

Prosecutors rested their case shortly before 3 p.m. today. Jurors were dismissed for the day an hour later.

Lori McMahan's attorney indicated she will testify. It's unclear whether her husband will testify.

A federal grand jury indictment accuses the McMahans of benefiting from trips, jewelry and more than $100,000 in illegal contributions to the auditor's 2002 campaign, all provided by Phipps. In return, an indictment alleges, the auditor, sometimes at his wife's urging, gave special favors to Phipps' abstract companies, which the auditor's office regulated.

Kaitcer testified about his interviews with both Jeff and Lori McMahan. All three interviews with the auditor occurred at his state Capitol office between August 2006 and August 2007, Kaitcer said. The one with Lori McMahan occurred during a search of the couple's Tecumseh home on Aug. 23, 2007, he said.

After first denying in August 2006 that he attended any business meetings with Phipps, McMahan later acknowledged going to New Orleans on a "teaching" trip funded by Phipps, Kaitcer said.

That bus trip involved about 30 people, many of them Phipps' abstract company employees. Kaitcer said the McMahans told him the auditor could teach courses on the trip if Phipps paid for no more than $300 of his expenses. Other witnesses testified that the auditor did no teaching on that trip, and that the McMahans' expenses far exceeded $300.

Kaitcer said during a second interview with Jeff McMahan, the auditor admitted meeting with Phipps and two legislators at the Capitol between November 2002, when he was first elected, and January 2003, when he took office, Kaitcer testified.

McMahan also gave conflicting accounts about two pieces of expensive jewelry Phipps bought for the auditor's wife, Kaitcer said.

Eat Your Words Noted Quote

Two years ago, Jeff McMahan's campaign manager said McMahan was not involved in the developing Gene Stipe/Steve Phipps scandal in any way. Gary Jones, Erin Maike (now Bradshaw) said, made the allegations because he has no platform of his own: "That's his only thing he has to run on," Maike said. "He's been stumping on it a long time and we've yet to see anything come to the fruition."

Rice's Claim Phony, Terrill Says

Contrary to his latest claims, State Senator Andrew Rice was not key in the passage of Oklahoma’s immigration reform law, according to the bill’s author and Oklahoma Victory 2008.

In a radio ad titled “Faith,” Rice claims “I helped pass the toughest immigration reform law in the country.”

But Rep. Randy Terrill (R-Moore), author of HB 1804, said, “Senator Rice was not actively involved in the negotiations of HB 1804 nor was he instrumental in the bill’s passage. Furthermore, Senator Rice voted to gut a bill establishing English as the state’s official language, which should give Oklahomans an idea where he really stands on meaningful immigration reform.”

On May 7, 2008, Senator Rice and his Senate Democrat colleagues passed substitute language to Terrill’s English-only bill, thereby sending it back to a conference committee and essentially killing the bill. (http://newsok.com/article/keyword/3240527/).

“Rice indeed voted for the final passage of HB 1804, but it’s disingenuous for him to take credit for helping pass the toughest immigration reform law in the country,” said Oklahoma Victory Director Matt Pinnell.

“Senator Rice talks a big game about bipartisanship, but when it comes to the tough issues that Oklahomans feel strongly about, like making English our state's official language, Rice tows the party line.”

Coffee: Henry 'Snubs Nose' At Reforms

Republican Senate leader Glenn Coffee criticized Governor Henry today for his line item veto of Senate Bill 1323, a budget bill for the Department of Corrections.

Coffee says the action violated two major recommendations of an independent performance audit of the agency.

“This veto is another example of Gov. Henry snubbing his nose at good and honest government reforms. The governor was against the independent performance audit of DOC from the beginning, so it is not surprising that he would try to wipe out some of the audit’s common sense recommendations,” said Coffee, R-Oklahoma City.

The audit, performed last year by MGT of America, Inc., recommended that the Legislature “establish specific funding allocations for major operations and program components” at DOC, which SB 1323 did. But Henry vetoed these funding allocations.

MGT’s audit also recommended that the Legislature provide funding for DOC to “contract for new maximum-security beds at the CCA Davis facility.” The additional money for these beds was included in Section 1 of SB 1323, which Henry vetoed.

Video: Murphy Followed Election Board Secretary's Directions In Filing For Office

Controversy over the filing of Republican Dana Murphy for the 2-year Corporation Commission seat appears to center on advice given her by the secretary of the Oklahoma Election Board, Michael Clingman.

Video of Murphy filing for office, posted at http://www.okiecampaigns.blogspot.com/, shows a person who appears to be Clingman advising Murphy on the requirements for filing her statement of candidacy.

Murphy's Republican opponent, Rep. Rob Johnson, has challenged her candidacy because he says she signed "Dana Murphy" when her statement listed her as "Dana L. Murphy."

Murphy signs her form and hands it to the man, who scans it, then hands it back, advising Murphy her signature should appear as she wants her name on the ballot. She then uses her pen on the document and hands it back to the man, who scans it again and gives her further instructions to complete her filing.

Said Murphy: "If you watch the video of my filing, you will clearly hear the Election Board clerk ask me if I wanted to be listed as 'Dana L. Murphy' or 'Dana Murphy'. I advised him 'Dana Murphy', he requested that I sign 'Dana Murphy' and I did. The Election Board clerk then scratched out the 'Dana L. Murphy' signature."

Istook Emphasizes He's Not A Probe Target

By Chris Casteel/The Oklahoman, Blogging From Washington ~ Former Oklahoma Congressman Ernest Istook reiterated that he was told by the FBI that he’s not a target in the public corruption investigation that snared his top aide.

In an e-mail exchange, Istook, a Republican who represented the Oklahoma City area for 14 years in the U.S. House, declined to answer whether he had received a subpoena to testify before a grand jury — or whether he had testified before a grand jury.

He did say, again, that he had spoken to the FBI and that he was “shocked and surprised” about (John) Albaugh, who worked for him nearly as long as Istook was in Congress. And he said he was “cooperating with them fully.”

Albaugh pleaded guilty Monday to a single conspiracy charge. He admitted that he helped get road project money for a lobbyist’s clients while the lobbyist was treating him to meals at fancy restaurants and to tickets to sporting events and concerts.

In the year that the acts took place, Albaugh was making nearly $145,000 a year.

According to the Justice Department information about the conspiracy, Albaugh took about $4,000 worth of meals and tickets. But not all of the tickets went to Albaugh alone. Istook benefited from the use of luxury suites at a downtown Washington arena — for an American idols concert — and at the Maryland stadium where the Washington Redskins play. The suites were used for campaign fundraisers for Istook.

The suites were controlled by former lobbyist Jack Abramoff, who is now serving time in prison for conspiracies in Florida and Washington DC. Istook’s campaign didn’t reimburse Abramoff’s company for the suites until the Abramoff scandal exploded in 2006.

Albaugh’s case is part of the public corruption probe that began with Abramoff and has now snared 13 lobbyists and former public officials.

McCain Goes After Clinton Voters

From Fox News ~ Republicans are targeting the spoils of the bitter Democratic primary campaign.

Presumptive GOP nominee John McCain and his supporters are encouraging Clinton loyalists to abandon their party this November in a bid to exploit their frustration and convince them McCain is their next best choice.

This comes as some Clinton backers, seeing the curtain closing on their candidate, are organizing to draw other Clinton backers to McCain’s side.

“A lot of Clinton’s supporters liked her because they saw that she was experienced, ready to start the job on Day One. … Those are all traits that John McCain shares,” Republican National Committee spokesman Alex Conant said.

Conant told FOXNews.com that since the beginning of the week, “our switchboards are pretty much lit up from women asking how they can change their registration — Clinton supporters. … We think there’s a real opportunity there.”

Cristi Adkins, of the newly formed Clintons for McCain group, told FOX News that Clinton supporters should seriously consider putting their money on the GOP candidate.

“It’s really not that big of a jump from Clinton to McCain,” she argued.

While some Democrats likely will be unshakable in their opposition to McCain for his support of the Iraq war, the McCain campaign sees an opening to court the so-called Reagan Democrats who supported Clinton.

The Arizona senator, to deflect the charge that he is campaigning for a third Bush term, is offering a moderate pitch that could appeal to the voting blocs that carried Clinton — seniors, Hispanics, security moms and blue-collar voters.

In the days ahead, the campaign plans to send high-profile female surrogates to flood states where Clinton won.

McCain also launched a new Web site called Citizens for McCain that states it is recruiting supporters “no matter what party you belong to or who you supported during the primary campaign.”

The online form includes a box for voters to check if they were part of the Clinton campaign.

“I think there (are) a lot of Senator Clinton’s supporters who will support me because of their belief that Senator Obama does not have the experience or the knowledge or the judgment to address this nation’s national security challenges given we are in two wars,” McCain said Wednesday in Louisiana, casting Obama as an outside-the-mainstream partisan with “the most liberal voting record” in the Senate.

Recent polls suggest there is a cross-section of disaffected Democrats ripe for the Republicans’ picking.

A new CBS News poll out Wednesday night showed 22 percent of Clinton supporters claim they would vote for McCain in the general election. Sixty-three percent said they would support Obama and 8 percent said they’d stay home on Election Day. Among all registered Democrats polled, 12 percent said they would support McCain. But if McCain is going to court Clinton voters, he’ll have a lot of catching up to do, since Obama has been targeting the same voters for months.

And that won’t stop just because he clinched the nomination.

Obama said Thursday that he and Clinton agreed on most issues, and he will actively court her supporters.

“We’re going to speak to them but also listen to them, get advice … and we’re going to try with all humility to seek their support and figure out how we can all work together to win in November,” Obama said.

Several Democratic strategists think the idea of Clinton supporters breaking for McCain en masse is unlikely. They say the polls are just a product of the tense and combative mood of the Democratic race to date.

New York Rep. Charles Rangel, who with the rest of the New York delegation switched his support from Clinton to Obama on Thursday, downplayed the intra-party divisions.

“We’re Democrats, dammit. And hell, we fight,” he said. “And when it’s over, we come together and just go out there and win.”

The rancor among Clinton supporters is overstated, and most will not abandon their party, said Daniel Gotoff, from the Democratic strategy firm Lake Research Partners.

“I think you’re going to see a lot of that dissipate, frankly,” he told FOX News, responding to the CBS News poll. “Those (poll) questions are asked in the heat of battle, and these are campaigns that have been pretty well dug in for several months now.”

Several Clinton surrogates argue that the best way for Obama to sweep up Clinton’s supporters is to tap her as his running mate.

“She is clearly the best political asset to the ticket,” Pennsylvania Gov. Ed Rendell told FOX News on Thursday.

But in that window before the bulk of Clinton supporters are put at ease, some frustrated voters are fanning the flames.

Self-identified Clinton backer Edward Hale, whom the Texas Democratic Party confirmed is a state party convention delegate, launched a new Web site over the weekend calling on other Clinton backers to promote McCain.

The primitive site, which consists mostly of an attack video and bold-faced statements slamming Obama, plays the fear card by suggesting voters would see “Baghdad here in the USA” if the Illinois senator were elected.

“I am one of them Bible-thumping, gun-toting rednecks and damn proud of it,” the author declares on the site of Hillary Clinton Supporters for John McCain.

But according to the ticker on the home page, it has more than 400,000 hits, and Hale claims he wants to form an independent “527″ group to raise money and runs ads against Obama.

McCain has condemned such groups, meaning any independent campaigns against Obama could cause more headaches than anything for the Arizona senator.

“I will do everything I can to keep anything that may be that kind of ugliness out of this political campaign,” McCain said Thursday in Florida.

Johnson Responds To Murphy's Statement

A spokesman for State Rep. Rob Johnson's campaign for Corporation Commissioner said today that Dana Murphy's response to a challenge of her candidacy by Johnson is meant to distract voters from her own mistake. "Thanks to her recent press release, Dana has confirmed exactly what we suspected: that she filed an invalid declaration of candidacy," said spokesman Rep. Trebor Worthen.

[Video of Murphy's filing has been posted by John Angier at Okie Campaigns.]

"Since she is an attorney, I would think she would know better than to alter a notorized document," said Worthen. "Someone seeking an office that is charged with interpreting laws and regulating a key part of our economy should be competent enough to follow our election laws, just like hundreds of other candidates. But given Dana's history of altering documents, I'm not surprised at this kind of behavior."

Worthen's statement said that, "In 2002, when Murphy first sought a seat on the Corporation Commission, her two Republican opponents produced evidence of document forgery involving an oil and gas lease, and accused her of other unethical behavior. Though Murphy was quick to deny the allegations, she has never fully answered the questions surrounding those issues."

"Dana likes to talk about her qualifications for office. I believe the first qualification is to have a high standard of ethical conduct," said Worthen. "Her past actions call in to serious question whether she has the proper ethics to be a public servant." A hearing to determine whether Murphy will remain on the ballot will be held this coming Friday, June 13.

Murphy Says Johnson's Challenge Unfounded 'Grasping at straws'

Oklahoma Corporation Commission candidate Dana Murphy said today the attempt by Rob Johnson and his campaign consultants to challenge her filing for office is nothing more than a desperate attempt to create something out of nothing.

"Rob Johnson and his consultants are grasping at straws because he can't challenge my qualifications. If you watch the video of my filing, you will clearly hear the Election Board clerk ask me if I wanted to be listed as 'Dana L. Murphy' or 'Dana Murphy'. I advised him 'Dana Murphy', he requested that I sign 'Dana Murphy' and I did. The Election Board clerk then scratched out the 'Dana L. Murphy' signature."

Murphy also stated that "In addition to this clarification, he also requested that I add either short or long term with the Commission office to the form and I added short term."

A hearing is set by the Election Board on Johnson's challenge for June 13th.

Murphy believes this ploy is just more evidence of the lackluster campaign on the part of Rob Johnson. "He has no hands-on, working experience at the Commission and little, if any, knowledge and background in matters regularly decided by the Commission affecting Oklahomans every day."

Murphy spent almost six years as an Administrative Law Judge at the Commission hearing over 5,000 cases; she owns her own energy law practice and she worked as a geologist in the oil patch for ten years. Murphy has also represented clients before the Commission and testified as an expert geological witness in cases at the Commission.

"Johnson's only apparent claim to fame is that he is a two term state legislator and worked as a congressional aide/gopher. His campaign is already stalling. This is his feeble attempt to cloud the fact that he has no qualifications for this office."

Murphy believes this to be a diversionary tactic used by Johnson's consultants before and currently in use in other races. Johnson, his consultant Fount Holland and former Representative Trebor Worthen, who is working on his campaign, are no strangers to controversy and the use of old guard politician "smoke and mirrors" tactics.

"For me, it's about serving my fellow Oklahomans. They deserve the very best," added Murphy. "What our state doesn't need is more self serving politicians who are more interested in serving themselves than serving our state."

Jerry Hefner Says He's Retiring

By D. E. Smoot/Muskogee Phoenix ~ Wagoner County Commissioner Jerry Hefner, District 2, announced on Tuesday his decision to retire from public service.

Hefner, who has been implicated in an alleged kickback scandal involving former state Sen. Gene Stipe and his business partner Steven Phipps, said he is proud of his accomplishments during the past 20 years as state representative and county commissioner.

“In my public service to Wagoner County I’m proud of all my accomplishments,” Hefner said in a written statement that noted the completion of the Oklahoma 51 widening project, Wagoner Airport improvements, and additional support for veterans, senior citizens and rural fire departments. “During my service as county commissioner, I am particularly proud of meeting the challenges during the extraordinary rain and ice storms of the last two and a half years and seeing the Wagoner County Courthouse completed.”

A section of Oklahoma 51 in Wagoner has been named in Hefner’s honor and the airport has been named the Hefner-Easley Airport in honor of Hefner and former state Sen. Kevin Easley.

The Gadfly Bouncing Off The Wall

Television News: While generally I am a huge fan of television news, several recent reports have me bouncing off the wall. Report #1: Channel 4 in Oklahoma City aired a report about (gasp!) a rattlesnake that was found with its fangs removed and its mouth sewn shut. The breathless news anchors obviously felt great pain for the rattler, lamenting its condition and, even more breathlessly, reported its mouth was being unsewn and it would be taken care of, obviously meaning it would be treated gently. In my part of the world, "taken care of" when referring to rattlers has a whole different meaning. Report #2: Channel 5 anchorette in Oklahoma City reported that former House Speaker Lance Cargill resigned as speaker when the Ethics Commission began investigating his unpaid taxes. Wrong and extremely sloppy reporting.

Hoot: Though I live in the city, my wee (almost) acreage has huge trees, as do the adjoining lots of my neighbors. This week, we have been visited by a huge owl who appears to have an appetite for squirrels...at least, he keeps swooping them in the back yard. I find this exercise amusing, since the squirrels are far too fast for the owl, but my wife is upset. She loves to watch the (six) squirrels who visit us frolic and she'd just as soon the owl move on.

Wind: We have redefined "the wind comes whistlin' down the plain" in recent weeks. And, result of the December ice storm, every time the wind gusts, the small limbs come falling down. Yesterday, I policed the front yard twice. Turned my back, it had several new limbs upon it. I give up.

Diverson: I report all of the above as my way of getting my brain out of filing week at the Capitol and out of the Clinton-Obama slugfest. Hillary comes across thus far as something of a spoil sport and Barack, who limped across the finish line, is trying to get his gait back. John McCain continues to befuddle me.

Chicken/Egg: Others continue to ask whether this is a blog or a website. Hell, I don't know. A blog, to me, is a reel of opinions from many. A news website, to me, disseminates information. That's our thing. And when we "blog," as with this occasional column, we make it clear it's our opinion. Others, who aspire to be news sites, recognize no such differentiation.

Vindication: GOP Chairman Gary Jones has said for six years that Jeff McMahan's 2002 victory, and 2006 as well, came as a result of funny money funneled into his campaign. Testimony in McMahan's federal felony trial makes it clear that was the case. In the opinions of many, Jones would have been elected auditor in 2002 had it not been for the illegal cash used to propel his campaign in the closing days. The McMahan saga, should the allegations about him and others be found true, is troubling on many levels and brings more dishonor to our state.

Ixnay: Governor Henry says he, too, is opposed to the proposed Shawnee tribal casino on Interstate 35 in Oklahoma City. His opposition, coupled with that of Mayor Mick Cornett and others, lengthens the possibility the casino won't get off the ground.

Finally: Hillary Clinton threw in the towel and endorsed Barack Obama today.

Obama Think: The Democratic nominee for president says a college education paid for by the government is the "birthright" of every American. God save the Republic; this man will give it away.

Citty Citty Bang Bang: Oklahoma City Police Chief Bill Citty says recent gang shootings mean we need more controls on the registration and ownership of guns by law-abiding citizens. He's been suspect in my mind for a while now and this bit of "it's the guns, not the criminals" malarkey confirms my suspicion. Citty seems of the opinion that criminals obey laws. Duh!

Headline ~ Obama Ditches Press For Secret Meeting: Don't blame him; would have done the same thing myself.

Waaaaaaaaa....

Barack Obama’s campaign is taking heat from news media after herding political reporters onto the Illinois senator’s charter plane to take off Thursday night without the candidate — while he met secretly with Hillary Clinton in Washington, D.C.

The Washington bureau chiefs from FOX News, ABC News, CBS News, NBC News and CNN, along with the acting bureau chief from The Associated Press, penned a joint letter of protest Friday to Obama’s campaign manager and chief spokesman.

Johnson Protests Murphy's Candidacy

The Oklahoma Election Board's website tonight contains an entry indicating that Republican Rob Johnson has filed a protest against the candidacy of Republican Dana Murphy. Both seek the GOP nomination to fill the two years remaining on the term for the office now held by Democrat Jim Roth.

The listing shows a hearing date on the protest of June 13th.

Opponent Challenges Sullivan's Candidacy

The candidacy of Rep. Dan Sullivan, R-Tulsa, is being challenged by his opponent, who contends that the lawmaker has failed to live in his House district for the past six months, as required by state law. Sullivan, who is getting a divorce, said Friday that he has continued to live in the district, most recently in the home of his parents. His candidacy is being challenged by Democrat George Bullock of Tulsa, who hopes to halt Sullivan's re-election.

Republicans Challenge Henry On Veto Of Lawsuit Reform Measure

Republican said today that when it comes to choosing trial lawyers or teachers, Oklahomans now know where Gov. Brad Henry’s loyalties lie: The trial lawyers. In a news release, Republicans said Henry "vetoed a bipartisan lawsuit reform bill that would have curbed lawsuit abuse against teachers and school administrators who enforce discipline in the classroom. The veto is a major blow to teachers and schools, but it protects Henry’s allies in the trial lawyer industry." The School Protection Act, Senate Bill 1024, is authored by State Senate Co-Floor Leader Owen Laughlin, R-Woodward, and State Rep. Dan Sullivan, R-Tulsa. The bill was supported by the Oklahoma Education Association.

Henry Vetoes Religious Viewpoints Act

Governor Henry today vetoed a controversial measure to protect religion in schools.

Henry vetoed House Bill 2633, called the "Religious Viewpoints Antidiscrimination Act," by Senator James A. Williamson, R-Tulsa, and Rep. Sally Kern, R-Oklahoma City.

The bill states that "students may express their beliefs about religion in homework, artwork and other written and oral assignments free from discrimination based on the religious content of their submissions. Homework and classroom assignments shall be judged by ordinary academic standards of substance and relevance and against other legitimate pedagogical concerns identified by the school district. Students shall not be penalized or rewarded on account of the religious content of their work."

Henry said students are already allowed to express their faith through voluntary prayer and other activities. He said the legislation is well-intended, but vague and "may trigger a number of unintended consequences that actually impede rather than enhance such expression."

Schools could be forced to provide equal time to fringe groups that masquerade as religions and advocate behaviors such as hate speech.

Henry Vetoes GOP Reform Measure

Governor Henry today vetoed Senate Bill 1865, by Senate Co-President Pro Tem Glenn Coffee, that would have created an Office of Accountability and Innovation at the Legislative Service Bureau. The veto prompted criticism from Coffee.

The office was to conduct regular performance audits of agencies, recommend best practices to improve efficiency in government, review tax policy, and suggest new innovations to make government more accountable and effective for taxpayers.

“Gov. Henry’s veto is a big victory for the good ol' boys don't want us to succeed in making state government more open, more accountable, more efficient, and more innovative,” stated Coffee, R-Oklahoma City.

“There are a lot of people who would prefer that the Legislature didn't try to weed out political corruption or ask questions about why taxpayer dollars are spent on projects such as McAlester dog food plants. These people are very happy that Gov. Henry vetoed this bill,” Coffee said.

“Our proposal for a new Office of Accountability and Innovation is similar in concept to the U.S. Congress's Government Accountability Office. This bill represented an effort to make government better, so I am shocked and disappointed the governor said no to SB 1865.

“Gov. Henry’s veto is not the end of this story, though, because Senate Republicans will be back again next year fighting to change state government for the better by making it more efficient and more accountable to the people of Oklahoma,” he said.

In his veto message, Henry said, "While it is critical for the state to conduct regular performance reviews of state agencies and programs, state law already assigns those responsibilities to the Oklahoma Legislature, the Office of State Finance and the State Auditor and Inspector. Creating a new layer of bureaucracy to perform the same duties is duplicative and unnecessarily increases the size and cost of government. In 2003, the Legislature established a joint zero-based budgeting committee, also known as the Legislative Oversight Committee on State Budget and Performance, to conduct state performance reviews. State law specifically charged it with reviewing a specified number of agencies and programs each year. Rather than establish a new state entity, the Legislature should use the existing zero-based budgeting committee to conduct performance reviews and accountability assessments not already duplicated by other state entities."

Clinton Sets Exit, Puts Pressure On Obama

On the heels of a tete-a-tete with Barack Obama, Hillary Clinton has set the time and place for her formal exit from the Democratic primary race.

The New York senator plans to drop out of the race at noon Saturday, at the National Building Museum in Washington, D.C.. The announcement came Friday after some initial confusion over when and where Clinton would concede.

With the details in place, party leaders hope the rally — where Clinton plans to endorse Obama — will serve as an effective call for party unity.

The two Democrats apparently began mending fences when they met in private Thursday night.

California Sen. Dianne Feinstein, a major Clinton supporter who hosted the meeting at her Washington, D.C., home, said the two emerged from the hour-long session “laughing.”

Most of what Obama and Clinton talked about stayed secret in the hours after their meeting, and only a short, cryptic campaign message gave any hint of what happened behind closed doors.

“Senator Clinton and Senator Obama met tonight and had a productive discussion about the important work that needs to be done to succeed in November,” their campaigns said in a joint statement released late in the evening.

But Clinton supporters swiftly kicked up speculation that she’s being considered as Obama’s running mate, just hours after the campaign declared she’s not seeking the No. 2 spot.

Feinstein was promoting the “dream ticket” concept this morning.

McMahan Asked For, Got, $3,500 Cash

By The Oklahoman's Tony Thornton, Blogging From Muskogee ~ It was July of 2004. Oklahoma Democrats had named state Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan and his wife, Lori, to be delegates at the Democratic National Convention in Boston.

McMahan called staffer Tim Arbaugh into his office and announced the good news, then tempered it by saying the McMahans couldn’t afford the trip, Arbaugh testified Thursday.

Arbaugh, who headed the abstract division of the auditor’s office, said his boss asked him to call abstract company owner Steve Phipps and ask for $3,500 to help pay their expenses.

Phipps was no stranger to helping McMahan. In earlier testimony, Phipps said he provided more than $150,000 illegally to McMahan’s 2002 campaign, including $27,000 he gave directly to Lori McMahan. He said he also paid for trips for the McMahans and bought expensive jewelry for the auditor’s wife.

Arbaugh testified he knew about some of the previous crimes. But this was the first time McMahan had asked so overtly for Arbaugh to be a bag man, Arbaugh said.

He said he called Phipps from his cell phone while sitting in McMahan’s office and explained the situation. The request surprised Phipps as much as it had surprised him, Arbaugh said.

However, Phipps agreed to provide the cash, Arbaugh testified.

A few days later, Phipps met Arbaugh for lunch and gave him an envelope containing the $3,500, Arbaugh testified.

Upon his return to the state Capitol, Arbaugh said, he went straight to McMahan’s office and delivered the envelope.

“What did he do?” Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Roberts asked.

“He put the envelope in the pocket of his coat and said, ‘Thank you,’" Arbaugh said.

Scott Records Show Same Straw Donors

By The Oklahoman's Tony Thornton, Blogging From Muskogee ~ Records from Clifton Scott’s last two political campaigns tend to validate at least part of a claim made Wednesday on the witness stand by the prosecution’s star witness, Steve Phipps.

Phipps claimed that he channeled money into the former state auditor’s campaigns beginning around 1988 and ending in 1998, the last time Scott ran for office.

Earlier this year, The Oklahoman pulled Scott’s campaign records from a warehouse near the Capitol to see whether Phipps attemped to buy influence with Jeff McMahan’s predecessor.

Those records show thousands of dollars in contributions from the same people who Phipps said acted as straw donors, at his request, for other campaigns. Many of them worked for Phipps’ abstract companies.

Phipps claims Scott, like McMahan, knowingly took the money and provided special favors to benefit his abstract companies, which the auditor’s office regulates. Both Scott and McMahan deny that claim.

Arbaugh: 'Veil of deniability' Didn't Hide McMahan's Knowledge Of Funny Money

By Tony Thornton/The Oklahoman in Muskogee ~ A key prosecution witness in the trial of state Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan choked up Thursday as he recalled the moment he realized "we'd crossed the line” by taking $10,000 in cash from southeastern Oklahoma businessman Steve Phipps.

Tim Arbaugh (pictured), who regulated the abstract industry for the auditor's office until his firing last year, also discussed a "veil of deniability” aimed at helping McMahan feign ignorance about Phipps' illegal contributions.

Arbaugh and Phipps are the two main witnesses against McMahan. Both wore recording devices in early 2007 to capture conversations with the auditor and his wife, Lori McMahan.

Jurors heard excerpts of conversations between Arbaugh and Lori McMahan that prosecutors said reveal an effort to cover up the McMahans' alleged crimes.

The McMahans face nine felony counts accusing them of taking illegal money, jewelry and trips from Phipps, then taking action to benefit his companies, which were regulated by the auditor's office.

The alleged crimes began in 2002, when Jeff McMahan was in his first campaign as the successor to state Auditor Clifton Scott.

In May 2002, Phipps hosted a campaign fundraiser at a Guthrie restaurant, followed by a play across the street at the Pollard Theatre.

Arbaugh, who organized the event, said he asked McMahan whether he was concerned about the large number of Phipps' abstract company employees who had paid up to $1,000 to sit next to either Scott or Jeff McMahan.

The candidate's response: "Clifton Scott told me that it might be a problem, and it might be best if I just didn't notice,” Arbaugh testified.

After the play, Arbaugh said, he was talking to Lori McMahan about the chance that some of those people might be "straw donors,” who gave under their own name but with Phipps' money so Phipps could avoid the $5,000 campaign contribution limit.

About that time, Jeff McMahan asked what they were talking about, Arbaugh said.

He said Lori McMahan said, "You don't want to know.”

That phrase, and others like it, would be used often to provide Jeff McMahan with "deniability,” Arbaugh testified.

One of those times was Oct. 22, 2002. The campaign needed cash. A dinner meeting was arranged at the Garfield's restaurant in Shawnee.

Arbaugh said he and Phipps showed up early, and Phipps pulled out two stacks of cash. When Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Roberts asked Arbaugh about Phipps' aims for the cash, Arbaugh choked up.

"He told me he was going to give it to Jeff and Lori,” Arbaugh testified.

"We'd been stretching things” in the campaign, he said. "It was at that point,” Arbaugh said, before choking up again. "It was at that moment I realized we'd crossed the line.”

Two weeks later, Jeff McMahan won re-election.

By 2006, Phipps was under criminal investigation, and McMahan was trying to distance himself.

While going over the list of Phipps' employees who had contributed in 2002, Arbaugh said he would ask them again.

"Don't bother. They don't have any money,” Arbaugh said his boss told him.

"But they gave last time,” Arbaugh said he told the auditor.

Roberts asked how Jeff McMahan responded.

"He said they didn't have any money last time, either,” Arbaugh said.

Arbaugh Granted Immunity For Testimony

From The Tulsa World ~ Former Deputy State Auditor Tim Arbaugh, a key prosecution witness [in the federal corruption trial of Jeff McMahan and his wife], now works for [felon Steve] Phipps at Indian Nations Entertainment, a maker of gambling machines. Arbaugh said he earns about $2,000 a month, plus expenses and his mortgage. In return for his testimony, Arbaugh has been granted immunity for any crimes he may have committed in the past 10 years. [Arbaugh and his wife also operate a bed and breakfast in Guthrie.]

GOP Candidate In SD 47 Withdraws, Ensuring Todd Lamb's Reelection

Isaac Samuel of Oklahoma City, who yesterday filed a candidacy for the State Senate as a Republican in Senate District 47, withdrew his candidacy today. That eliminates a primary election on the GOP side.

As a result, Senator Todd Lamb is reelected to represent his Oklahoma City/Edmond district without Democrat opposition. This increases the number of incumbent Republican senators returning to office upon filing to six. They include Lamb, Patrick Anderson (Enid), Brian Crain (Tulsa), John Ford (Bartlesville), Ron Justice (Chickasha) and Mike Mazzei (Tulsa).

Arbaugh: 'I realized we had crossed the line' As Phipps Handed Over Cash

By Susan Hylton/Tulsa World Staff Writer in Muskogee ~ Former deputy state auditor & inspector Tim Arbaugh, on the stand in the federal trial of State Auditor & Inspector Jeff McMahan, nearly broke down on the witness stand Thursday in describing what he said was an illegal campaign contribution.

Arbaugh testified that he got into Kiowa businessman Steve Phipps’ vehicle at a Garfield's parking lot in Shawnee where he saw two stacks of cash.

It was Oct. 22, 2002, and the campaign of his soon-to-be boss, McMahan was in trouble, especially in Tulsa County, the former abstract registrar testified in U.S. District Court.

One of the stacks, topped by a $100 bill, was meant for Arbaugh, he said. It was $2,500 to infuse illegally into the campaign for last-minute advertisements.

The other stack was much bigger, Arbaugh said.“It looked like a lot. He told me it was $10,000,” Arbaugh said.

When Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Roberts asked Arbaugh what Phipps was planning to do with the money, Arbaugh paused in silence for a moment to control his emotions.

He finally responded: “He told me he was going to give it to Jeff and Lori.”

In providing further detail, Arbaugh nearly broke down again.“It was at that point where I … I'm sorry,” he said, taking another moment to gather his words. “It was at that point that I realized we had crossed the line.”

The McMahans are on trial in a nine-count indictment alleging conspiracy, mail fraud and accepting bribes.

Phipps owned several abstract companies with Gene Stipe and the auditor’s office regulates the abstract industry.

Phipps testified Wednesday that he helped illegally finance McMahan’s campaign, along with taking the couple on trips to New Orleans and buying Lori McMahan jewelry in an effort to receive political favors.

KRMG News Director Joins Taylor Staff

Tulsa Mayor Kathy Taylor is hiring radio news director John Durkee as the city's Director of Strategic Communications.

Durkee has spent nearly 20 years at KRMG in Tulsa starting in 1989. He's been news director since 1991.

Taylor says Durkee will head the Communications Department to help raise awareness of city services and initiatives. He'll also work to coordinate the public information officers and marketing of all city departments.Durkee's first day will be Monday.

His salary is set at $95,000.

Senate Republicans Giddy After Filings

The candidate filing period ended Wednesday with Senate Republicans in what appears to be an unprecedented position to achieve the majority for the first time in Oklahoma history this year.

With eight Senate seats uncontested by Democrats in 2008 and eleven carry-over Senators not on the ballot this year, Republicans go into Election Day with a 19-18 advantage, strategists say. “We don’t claim for one minute that it will be easy, but we feel very good about our chances to be the majority party in the Senate following the November elections,” said Senate Co-President Pro Tem Glenn Coffee. “Our candidate recruitment efforts, headed by Senator Todd Lamb, were extremely successful.”

Of the thirteen current Republican-held seats on the ballot in 2008, Democrats contested only five, or 38% of the seats.

“When filing closed, Senators Patrick Anderson, Brian Crain, John Ford, Ron Justice and Mike Mazzei were automatically returned to office without opposition,” Coffee said. “In addition, three seats in Senate Districts 35 (Tulsa), 45 (Oklahoma/Cleveland/Canadian Counties) and 47 (OKC/Edmond) will be decided during the Primary election season, as no Democrats filed for those seats.

“This is unprecedented success for Republicans in the Oklahoma Senate,” Coffee continued. “We also feel very strongly about our ability to retain all of the currently Republican-held seats, as well as picking up Democrat seats in Stillwater and Tulsa.

“And, we think we’ll surprise people in at least one or more other seats,” Coffee said. “We’re bullish on our prospects in 2008.”

To break the current tie and attain a majority in the State Senate, Republicans must win six of the eleven contested seats, while Democrats must prevail in seven of the eleven contested seats.

Coffee cited strong top-of-ticket assistance from U.S. Senator Jim Inhofe, the Oklahoma Congressional delegation, and Oklahoma voters’ preference for John McCain over Barack Obama to boost strong State Senate Candidates in rural areas of the state.

“And finally, we have the issues and ideas on our side,” Coffee said. “Oklahoma voters are responding to our leadership on building and maintaining our states roads and bridges; tax relief; pro-family values issues; government accountability; education; and on ethics in government.

“The race is on, and we’re ready to lead,” Coffee concluded.

Henry's Spokesman: Laws Complied With

Governor Henry’s spokesman, Paul Sund, issued this statement in response to Wednesday’s testimony in the trial of Oklahoma State Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan and his wife, Lori McMahan:

“Today’s allegations were originally raised in March of 2007 and addressed by the governor at that time.

“Gov. Henry’s campaigns have complied with all state laws and ethics rules and operated under the highest of ethical standards.

“Everyone who donated to the governor’s campaigns was required to sign a sworn statement attesting that their contribution was their own and in compliance with state law. Because of those sworn statements, there was no reason to believe anything improper had occurred.

“Gov. Henry did not become aware of any potential problems until March of 2007 when federal authorities indicated that possible straw donors had contributed to Congressman Dan Boren’s campaign and other campaigns in Oklahoma. The governor was surprised and disappointed to learn that some of the same individuals had given to his 2002 campaign, and he moved quickly to address the issue.

“To err on the side of caution and address even the appearance of any conflict, Gov. Henry immediately donated the funds associated with the so-called straw donors to charity: The Oklahoma National Guard Relief Fund and the USS Oklahoma Memorial at Pearl Harbor.

“With respect to the chicken litter project, Gov. Henry met briefly with Mr. Phipps one time to discuss the venture, just as he has met with hundreds of other Oklahoma businessmen seeking input on economic development projects. After the meeting, the proposal was deemed to have no merit, and no action was pursued by the governor’s office. Gov. Henry never spoke to Mr. Phipps again after the meeting.”

There has been no assertion that Henry knew of the illegal donations.

Democrats Unhappy With Hillary Clinton

From Fox News ~ While Hillary Clinton plans to announce Saturday her support for Barack Obama’s candidacy, Democratic party leadership is growing increasingly frustrated with her timetable — rancor that could hurt her chances of salvaging the party’s No. 2.

Clinton raised the ire of several high-powered Democrats after she refused to concede and acknowledge Obama’s historic achievement Tuesday, when it became clear he had earned enough delegates to become the first black presidential nominee of a major party.

Read the entire story at http://www.foxnews.com/.

Clif Scott Denies Phipps' Allegations

Former Auditor & Inspector Clifton Scott says allegations he accepted illegal campaign donations from Steve Phipps and provided favors in return are wrong.

"I really don't know what to think of it," Scott said of Phipps' testimony in the federal trial of current Auditor & Inspector Jeff McMahan and his wife, Lori.

Scott said he knew that Phipps held fundraisers for his campaigns and added, "If there were straw donors, I wasn't aware of it."

In testimony Wednesday, Phipps detailed illegal donations to Scott's campaign and the favors he alleges Scott provided in return.

Phipps admitted from the stand that he funneled illegal money into six other campaigns, including those of Governor Henry, Congressman Dan Boren and the John Edwards presidential campaign. There was no assertion by Phipps that any of those candidates were aware he was the source of donations to their campaigns.

Dan Boren Honors Mildren On House Floor

Congressman Dan Boren honored former Lieutenant Governor and University of Oklahoma football quarterback Jack Mildren in a speech on the floor of the U. S. House.

Mildren died May 22 after a two-year battle with cancer. He was 58.

"I rise today to honor the life of a remarkable Oklahoman,” Boren said.

Boren noted that the former OU quarterback was known as the “Godfather of the wishbone,” led the Sooners in the 1971 “Game of the Century” against Nebraska and was named most valuable player of a Sugar Bowl win.

“He is most widely recognized for laying the foundation for the success of the Sooner football program for years after his graduation,” Boren said.

Boren also pointed out Mildren’s service as Oklahoma’s 22nd lieutenant governor: “Jack was not only a football star, but also a civic leader and outstanding public servant,” the congressman said, adding that Mildren would be remembered by Oklahomans “for his contributions to the history of our state.”

Cargill's Out

Former Republican House Speaker Lance Cargill of Harrah was not among those filing for reelection today, thus ending his tenure in the Legislature.

Cargill's rise to political prominence was cut short earlier this year when he resigned as speaker in the wake of reports he had failed to pay taxes in a timely fashion. He had been discussed as a possible GOP candidate for governor.

Cargill has served for eight years.

Henry Signs New License Plate Bill

Governor Henry has signed into law a bill that provides for this image, or something close to it, of Oklahoma's new license plates. The final design is up to the Tourism and Recreation Department.

Federal Judge Blocks Part Of HB1804

U. S. District Judge Robin Cauthron in Oklahoma City today blocked enforcement of employer-related provisions of the state's controversial immigration law, known as House Bill 1804, ruling it likely interferes with federal regulations regarding the hiring of unauthorized workers.

Murphy Files For Commission Seat

Energy attorney and geologist Dana Murphy of Edmond filed as a candidate for the Corporation Commission today.

"Oklahomans are sick and tired of bumper sticker politics, the same politicians saying the same old thing again and again and again. That is why many Oklahomans are becoming increasingly excited about my candidacy for Oklahoma Corporation Commissioner," said Murphy.

"With energy costs continuing to chew a hole through the pocketbook day after day, we must develop Oklahoma resources in new and different ways to provide today and tomorrow’s affordable power" said Murphy.

"This year, more than any other in our recent past, the individual elected to serve the people of Oklahoma on the Corporation Commission must understand the basic Constitutional responsibilities of a Corporation Commissioner and no amount of slick advertising and political catch-phrases can or will disguise that reality," she said.

Murphy, who operates her own oil and gas legal practice, is no stranger to the Corporation Commission. She served almost six years as an administrative law judge at the Commission, hearing over 5,000 cases.

Before becoming an oil and gas attorney, Murphy spent 10 years as a geologist working in the oil patch. A fifth generation Oklahoman, she continues to be actively involved in her family's ranch and farm outside Woodward.

For more information about Murphy’s campaign for Corporation Commission, please visit www.danamurphy.com .

Gray Files For Cloud's Commission Seat

Former State Rep. Charles Gray, Oklahoma City Democrat, filed today for the Corporation Commission seat now held by Republican Jeff Cloud.

Phipps Implicates Clifton Scott In Illegal Campaign Donation Schemes

By Tony Thornton/The Oklahoman ~ Southeast Oklahoma businessman Steve Phipps testified today that he provided $70,000 in illegal campaign contributions to Gov. Brad Henry in January 2003, about the time Henry took office.

Phipps also claimed that former state Auditor and Inspector Clifton Scott knowingly accepted Phipps' illegal campaign money for years and provided favors to Phipps in return.

The testimony came during Phipps' third day on the witness stand in the federal trial of Scott's successor as state auditor, Jeff McMahan.

McMahan and his wife, Lori, face nine felony counts related to their relationship with Phipps, an abstract company owner whose businesses were regulated by the auditor's office. Phipps, who is cooperating with prosecutors as part of a plea agreement, admitted Tuesday that he and two business partners, including former state Sen. Gene Stipe, funneled $157,882 into Jeff McMahan's 2002 campaign. The legal limit is $5,000 per person.

Phipps' testimony about Henry and Scott came during cross-examination by Jeff McMahan's attorney, Rand C. Eddy.

Phipps admitted he had engaged in ""numerous" criminal acts over the years.

"Did you give illegal campaign contributions to Clif Scott?" Eddy asked.

"Yes," Phipps answered.

"Did he know about it?"

"Yes."

Scott was the state auditor from 1983 until he retired after the 2002 election. He now is executive director of the state Commissioners of the Land Office.

Phipps said he gave excessive contributions to Scott's campaign through "straw donors" around 1988, and then the three elections thereafter.

"Did you expect favors in return?" Eddy asked.

"Yes."

"Did you get favors in return?"

"Occasionally, yes."

"If Mr. Scott denies that, he's lying; is that correct?" Eddy asked.

"Yes sir," Phipps responded.

Phipps didn't elaborate on how much beyond the legal limit he provided, nor did he specify what favors Scott provided. He said his intent for giving was to receive favors aimed at helping enhance profits for his companies.

Phipps also amplified testimony given Monday by Nita Magdalena, a Democratic Party organizer from Pottawatomie County, where McMahan lives.

Magdalena referred to a fundraiser for Henry at the Pollard Theater in Guthrie in January 2003. It was around the time of Henry's inauguration, she said.

That event, which the new governor attended, raised $105,000, she said. Phipps said $70,000 of it was his money, provided through "straw donors," or people who illegally claimed it was their money.

Three More File For U. S. Senate

Three more filed for the U. S. Senate today, including perennial candidate Jim Rogers, who wore a faded red campaign sweatshirt. The Midwest City Democrat said he had scotch-taped an "8" to the shirt to show he is a candidate in this year's race.

Also filing against Republican incumbent Jim Inhofe was Stephen P. Wallace of Tulsa, who is running as an Independent.

Republican Ted Ryals of Moore also filed: "I am a moderate Republican and we don't have one," said Ryals, who has worked as a trial lawyer, tax litigator and musician.

Earlier, three others filed against Inhofe: Democrat Andrew Rice of Oklahoma City and Republicans Dennis Lopez of Thackerville and Evelyn Rogers of Tulsa.

Electronic Transmittal Bill Signed By Henry

A bill requiring the hundreds of reports submitted by state agencies to legislators be transmitted electronically has been signed by Governor Henry.

Senate Bill 1507 could potentially save taxpayers thousands of dollars in printing and postage costs every year. The measure was sponsored by Senator Jay Paul Gumm, D-Durant, and Rep. Joe Dorman, D-Rush Springs.

Roth Files To Complete 2-year Term; Johnson, Murphy Also File

Democrat Jim Roth filed today to fill the remaining two years on the Corporation Commission term to which Governor Henry appointed him when Republican Denise Bode resigned.

Republicans Rob Johnson of Kingfisher and Dana Murphy of Edmond also filed for the seat.

Updated Filing List Available

A list of all those filing for office is updated regularly at http://www.ok.gov/~elections/.

With Clock Ticking, No Sign Of Cargill

As the clock ticks to today's 5 p.m. deadline for filing for office, former House Speaker Lance Cargill, R-Harrah, has not yet filed for re-election and the guessing game about his political plans continues.

Cargill, who resigned the speaker's post just before the start of this year's session because of personal tax problems, has said he would file for re-election. However, sources at the Capitol told The McCarville Report Online last week that he would not. There's been nothing from Cargill himself.

Mike Idleman, 41, a Republican from Choctaw, and Dianne Hunter, 58, a Democrat from Edmond, filed for the House District 96 seat.

Long-held Suspicion Confirmed; Phipps Admits Jones Cheated Out Of '02 Election

Abstract company owner Steve Phipps testitifed Tuesday in the federal felony trial of Auditor & Inspector Jeff McMahan that McMahan's 2002 opponent, Gary Jones, was cheated out of the election due to rampant illegal donations to McMahan's campaign.

The exchange came, The Oklahoman's Tony Thornton reports, as Phipps, who has admitted he was the source of about $158,000 in illegal donations and gifts to McMahan and his wife, was testifying under questioning by prosecutor Gay Guthrie.

The prosecutor noted that, in 2002, Jones claimed he was "being cheated out of the election."

"Yes,” Phipps said.

"He was right, wasn't he?” Guthrie asked.

"Yes,” Phipps replied.

Jones, now Republican State chairman, also ran against McMahan in 2006 with the same result, and with many of the same allegations about the funding of that McMahan campaign.

DSCC Misfires Again; Aim Is Way Off

The Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee can’t seem to get it right in Oklahoma.

Not long ago, they sent young Amy Rubin from Washington to videotape neophyte candidate Andrew Rice, but she managed to botch basic facts about Oklahoma in the process; she confused Custer County for “Custard County” and incorrectly claimed most Oklahoma farms are owned by corporations (in fact, over 95 percent of Oklahoma farms are family owned). Now the DSCC claims on on its blog that Inhofe’s campaign is copying the DSCC’s “on the road” videos.

Problem is, Inhofe's "On The Road" videos pre-date the DSCC's videos; he's been airing them since August of last year.

Tony Thornton Blogs About McMahan Trial; Illegal Phipps-McMahan Money Detailed

By Tony Thornton/The Oklahoman at http://blog.newsok.com/newsroom/2008/06/03/state-auditors-trial-day-2/?tm=1212548938 ~ Straw donors gave a total of $77,600 to Jeff McMahan’s campaign, using money supplied — illegally — by businessman Steve Phipps. Turns out, that barely scratched the surface of Phipps’ generosity to McMahan’s first political campaign.

Phipps testified Tuesday that he and business partners Gene Stipe and Larry Witt contributed a total of $157,882 in cash and in-kind contributions. Most of that amount was his own money, Phipps said.

The breakdown:

$77,600 through straw donors.

$27,000 in cash to Lori McMahan.

$24,000 for radio spots on four McAlester radio stations owned by Stipe.

$23,157 for materials and labor for political signs built at Phipp’s house in rural Pittsburg County.

$5,000 to rent the Pollard Theater in Guthrie for two fundraisers.

$1,125 for roughly half the cost of recording a campaign jingle.

By contrast, McMahan’s Republican opponent, Gary Jones, raised a total of about $150,000 most of which was his own money.

Jurors heard Phipps describe numerous times when he either gave Jeff and Lori McMahan (money), took them on expensive trips or bought Lori McMahan fine jewelry.

One new revelation involved the 2004 Democratic National Convention in Boston. The indicment against the McMahans has alleged Phipps provided $3,500 — at Jeff McMahan’s request — so the couple could attend. Jeff McMahan’s campaign also paid $2,600 toward the Boston trip, a campaign and auditor’s office staffer testified.

Phipps said Tuesday that in addition to his $3,500, he also said he provided an extra $3,000 to save McMahan from embarassment.

A Democratic Party tradition required certain office holders to sponsor a meal for all that state’s delegates. Phipps said he learned from Obera Bergdall, a retired employee (and longtime Democratic Party official) from the state auditor’s office, that McMahan didn’t have the necessary $3,000 to sponsor a meal. As a former state Democratic Party chairman, Bergdall knew all about the tradition.

Phipps said he agreed to front the money. Party officials rejected his ideas to either pay it by credit card or to make a donation to the Democratic Party.

“Ultimately, she (Bergdall) took the funds out of her retirement account, and I reimbursed her,” Phipps said.

Ivan Holmes Endorses Obama

Oklahoma Democratic Party chairman and uncommitted superdelegate Ivan Holmes will endorse Barack Obama on Tuesday evening, CNN has learned.

Holmes, who has led the state party since 2007, initially supported John Edwards and said he has remained neutral throughout the nomination process because Hillary Clinton won the Oklahoma primary on Super Tuesday.

He told CNN he is making an endorsement today because “I’ve been trying to be sure in my mind it’s over, which it now looks like it is to me.”

Jay Parmley Endorses Barack Obama

Oklahoma Democratic superdelegate Jay Parmley tonight endorsed Barack Obama.

Parmley, the former Oklahoma Democratic Party chairman who now works for the Democratic National Committee, was one of four undeclared superdelegates from the state.

In a statement emailed to The McCarville Report Online, Parmley wrote, "The race for the 2008 Democratic Presidential nomination has been historic. We have had two superbly qualified candidates, unprecedented numbers of newly registered voters and across the board near-record to record turnouts in primaries and caucuses. As an automatic delegate to the 2008 Democratic National Convention, it was always my hope that Democratic voters across America whose votes determine the proportional make up of the pledged delegates to the DNC Convention would select the nominee of our Party. I believe they have done so, even if by the narrowest of margins.

"I will cast my vote at the DNC Convention for Senator Barack Obama.

"Voters in my own home state of Oklahoma chose differently, a fact I weighed heavily as the nomination process unfolded. I for some time have had a deep personal respect for Senator Clinton and that respect continues. However, as an at-large member of the DNC and automatic delegate, I have a greater duty to help unite our party as we head into the November elections. Senator Obama has brought thousands of new people into the political process and his campaign and election will restore people’s confidence in their government.

"Our task as a party is great. Our country is in crisis. Voters have a clear choice in November. Will we end the war in Iraq, fix our ailing economy, and provide much needed quality healthcare to all our citizens? These questions can only be answered affirmatively by electing a Democratic President. The fight for the Democratic nomination has been intense and now comes to a close. Our goal as Democrats is victory in November and that can only be accomplished if we come together in support of Senator Obama."

AP: Obama Seals Democratic Nomination

ST. PAUL, Minn. (AP) ~ Sen. Barack Obama of Illinois sealed the Democratic presidential nomination Tuesday, a historic step toward his once-improbable goal of becoming the nation's first black president. A vanquished Hillary Rodham Clinton maneuvered for the vice presidential spot on his fall ticket.

JP Jordan Files In House District 47

John Paul (JP) Jordan, 27, of Mustang announced his candidacy for the House of Representatives on Tuesday. Jordan is running for the house district 47 seat being vacated by Susan Winchester.

Jordan is a lifelong resident of Mustang and a graduate of Mustang High School. He earned a degree in History Education from the University of Central Oklahoma where he also served as student body president.

He taught in both the Oklahoma City and Mustang public school districts. "I think I am in a great position, because of my experiences, to bring practical and traditional ideas to the education debate at the state capitol," Jordan said.

Currently, Jordan is a clerk at the Denton Law Firm in Mustang and a student at the OU College of law.

Jordan and his wife Christine are members of First Baptist Mustang. In addition to church involvement, he also serves as Co-Chair of the Your Choice Pregnancy Center’s Board of Directors and has been active in Christian Legal Society.

For more information, go to www.johnpauljordan.com.

Halligan-Murphy Race Appears Likely

As earlier reported likely to occur here, Payne County Associate District Judge Robert M. Murphy Jr. of Stillwater filed today as a Democratic candidate for the Senate District 21 seat being vacated by Mike Morgan.

Dr. James Halligan, former president of Oklahoma State University, filed earlier for the Republican nomination.

The seat is considered key as Republicans seek to take control of the now split 24-24 Senate in this fall's elections.

Murphy's less-than-stellar record as a judge likely will be a campaign issue; he may face questions about his removal as a judge in the Terry Nichols case.

As The Oklahoman's Nolan Clay reported at the time, "A controversial judge will not be reinstated to the Oklahoma City bombing case. The Oklahoma Supreme Court refused 6-1 Tuesday to even consider whether the judge's ouster was justified. Judge Robert M. Murphy was disqualified in August on ethical grounds. He was to have presided over Terry Nichols' preliminary hearing. The ruling Tuesday was a victory for prosecutors who complained the associate district judge from Payne County was prejudiced against them. Both Nichols and Murphy asked the Supreme Court to overturn the ouster.... Murphy was disqualified for meeting with an Oklahoma City law firm May 19 about doing legal research for him on the bombing case. Prosecutors complained because two attorneys at the firm accused them of misconduct in other murder cases. The decision was made by District Judge Charles L. Goodwin of Clinton, who was appointed to hear prosecutors' complaints. He agreed Murphy violated ethical canons on judicial behavior. Murphy denied wrongdoing and described most of the meeting with the law firm as social. He said his 'good name and reputation' had been damaged."

Idleman Files In Cargill District

Mike Idleman filed as a Republican candidate in House District 96 today. Former House Speaker Lance Cargill, who resigned that post after it was revealed he failed to pay taxes in a timely fashon, currently holds the seat.

"I'm running because I feel like I bring a point of view that is needed at the capitol. There aren't many conservative, former educators down there and I feel like I'm the right man, at the right time for House Seat 96," said Idleman.

"As I've knocked doors throughout the district, people keep asking about Lance. I want to be clear; I'm not running against anyone, I'm running for a cause. I believe education and security should be our top priorities as a state and that's what I intend to do. Focus on those issues and be a rock solid conservative within the caucus," said Idleman.

"This district is where my family is from, where I grew up and taught. That's why I'm running for District 96. This isn't about anything negative or geared towards any one person," Idleman said.

Henry Signs Roads, Bridges Bond Bill

Governor Henry's office said today he's signed a bill that would put $300 million into repairing state roads and bridges, including $25 million designated for county roads.

House Bill 2272 authorizes the Oklahoma Department of Transportation to issue $300 million in bonds to meet the agency's 8-year road and bridge maintenance plan, and a revolving fund to repair county roads will get $25 million.

Oklahoma County Officials Draw Foes

By Bryan Dean/The Oklahoman ~ Three of four Oklahoma County incumbents already face challenges for their offices as candidate filing continues today.

County Clerk Carolynn Caudill faces a familiar opponent in the Republican primary. Former District 3 Commissioner Stan Inman, who often clashed with Caudill before he lost a re-election bid two years ago, will try to unseat Caudill.

Embattled District 2 Commissioner Brent Rinehart, who is scheduled to go to trial in September on multiple felony charges stemming from his 2004 campaign, already faces four opponents.

Democrats Jim Dickinson of Harrah and Bob Boyster of Oklahoma City have filed for the seat along with Oklahoma City Republicans J.D. Johnston and Brian Maughan.

Sheriff John Whetsel also drew an opponent this morning. Republican Jim Heitmeyer of Del City will run against Whetsel, who is seeking his fourth term.

The filing period continues until 5 p.m. Wednesday.

AP: Obama Cinches Nomination

WASHINGTON ~ Barack Obama effectively clinched the Democratic presidential nomination Tuesday, based on an Associated Press tally of convention delegates, becoming the first black candidate ever to lead his party into a fall campaign for the White House.

Eleven more superdelegates endorsed Obama Tuesday, leaving him just 32.5 delegates short of the 2,118 needed to secure the nomination.

Oklahoma has four superdelegates who have yet to reveal their choices; five of the state's 10 superdelegates are with Obama, one with Clinton.

Montana and South Dakota together offer 31 pledged delegates, so Obama would undoubtedly need more superdelegates to make his victory official even if he fares well in those states.

California Sen. Dianne Feinstein, a Clinton backer, told FOX News she’s heard that about 12 uncommitted senators — who are superdelegates — will announce their support for Obama Wednesday. That report has been circulating on Capitol Hill.

Ownbey Files For Piatt Seat In Ardmore

Ardmore businessman Pat Ownbey filed today for the open House seat being vacated by incumbent Republican Greg Piatt.

Ownbey has made his home, built his business, and raised his family in Ardmore for the past 32 years.

Ownbey characterized himself as a conservative who believes in traditional values, government reform, and personal accountability.

Ownbey said it will also be important for the next Legislature to address improvements in education and health care in the state.

Ownbey is a former radio station owner and manager, working with Ardmore area stations KICM, KKAJ, KVSO AND KYNZ. Ownbey attends the First Baptist Church of Ardmore, where he serves as chairman of the Deacons. He has been married to his wife, Kathy, for the past 32 years. The couple has two children; a son, Scott, who is married to Megan, and a daughter, Susan, who is married to Will Perkins.

Inman Files For Oklahoma County Clerk

Former Oklahoma County Commissioner Stan Inman today filed for the office of Oklahoma County Clerk.

"It's vital that county boards receive timely and accurate information from the Clerk's office, so that the various boards can make informed and cost effective decisions. In my four years as County Commissioner, the current Clerk repeatedly missed deadlines and provided incomplete information. Frankly, Oklahoma County deserves better," said Inman.

Inman has received the endorsements of every former Oklahoma County Republican Party Chairman and political leaders within the district such as, Lt. Gen. Dick Burpee, Rep. Ken Miller, Rep. Sally Kern, Former Edmond Mayor Bob Rudkin and former Senator Mark Snyder. "I will bring fiscally conservative philosophies and a sense of fair play to the office of County Clerk that is obviously lacking there now," said Inman.

Kern, Terrill Draw Opponents; Cargill Guessing Game Continues

Rep. Sally Kern, R-Oklahoma City, whose comments about homosexuals earlier this year touched off a firestorm, today drew an opponent in Ron Marlett, a Democrat from Warr Acres. He had said he thought the past several years about seeking the House seat that covers western Oklahoma City, but Kern's comments — which included her calling homosexuality the biggest threat facing America — gave him the impetus to seek the post.

Former House Speaker Lance Cargill, R-Harrah, who stepped down from the speaker's position earlier this year because of personal tax problems, has said he would seek re-election. He hasn't filed so far. However, he's picked up a Democratic opponent, Dianne Hunter of Edmond. Hunter's husband, Dr. David Hunter, was the Democratic nominee in 2006 for the 5th Congressional District seat.

Rep. Randy Terrill, R-Moore, the author of the state's immigration law, picked up an opponent today. Troy Green, a Democrat from Oklahoma City, said he filed against Terrill "because it needs to be done."

Chaos In Clinton Camp?

There's chaos in Hillary Clinton's campaign today as spokesmen offered conflicting views of what Clinton may and may not say tonight following the final two primary election results.

Clinton advisor Harold Ickes said a statement issued by the campaign's news media office was in error and she will not concede the race to Barack Obama tonight.

But, it is reported, her chairman, Terry McAuliffe, told a ranking member of Congress yesterday that she will end her campaign "soon." Today, he said she won't pull out tonight.

But, even more confusing, McAuliffe said today that once Obama gets the majority of convention delegates, “I think Hillary Clinton will congratulate him and call him the nominee.” That is likely to occur after today's primary votes.

McAuliffe also denied an AP report that she'll pull out when speaking with another cable network after the report surfaced. Clinton aide Howard Wolfson also denied the report, according to Politico.com.

Slow Day In The Filing Line

By Michael McNutt/Capitol Bureau, The Oklahoman ~ No lines formed this morning at the state Capitol for candidates filing for state or federal office.

The first candidate to file today showed up about 8:15, about 15 minutes after state election officials began the second day of accepting filing papers from candidates. The filing period runs through 5 p.m. Wednesday.

Bart Jay Robey, a Democrat, was the first candidate to submit his candidacy papers today. He is seeking the House District 85 seat held by Rep. David Dank, R-Oklahoma City. Dank filed for a second two-year term Monday.

Robey, 29, an attorney, said this is his first attempt for public office.

"We have a lot of energy in Oklahoma City and it's time for some new, proactive leadership," he said. "It's time for some new blood."

Although Dank is completing his first term, his wife, Odilia, held the seat until she was prohibited from seeking re-election because of 12-year term limits in the Legislature.

Prosecutor: McMahan 'Bought'

By Susan Hylton/Tulsa World ~ Prosecutors vow that when they present their case in U.S. District Court (in Muskogee) this week, the jury will see what happens when a public official — State Auditor and Inspector Jeff McMahan — allows himself to be bought.

But defense attorneys for McMahan and his wife, Lori McMahan, claim that the prosecution's key witness, multimillionaire Kiowa businessman Steve Phipps, is not reliable because he is a master manipulator and a career criminal.

Jeff McMahan's attorney Rand Eddy said Phipps knew he would be going to prison anyway in connection with the bilking of more than $2 million from the Legislature to pay bribes and kickbacks. In a plea agreement, he pleaded guilty to one count of conspiracy to commit mail fraud in exchange for assisting the prosecution in a sprawling investigation of political corruption in southeast Oklahoma.

"He thought he needed to give the government a big fish," Eddy said.

The prosecution's first witness was former state Auditor and Inspector Clifton Scott, who testified that he has known Phipps since 1984 or 1985, when the Auditor's Office began regulating the abstracting industry.

The McMahans are accused of accepting excessive campaign contributions, gifts and trips in exchange for political favors for Phipps.

In his opening statement, Assistant U.S. Attorney Ryan Roberts said Phipps and his former business partner Gene Stipe — a state legislator for more than 50 years — would gladly give someone $100,000 when they knew that they'd receive 10 times that in return.

Scott said Phipps was placed on an abstract board that advised the Auditor's Office. Phipps owned abstract offices with Stipe, and Scott said he was aware of that relationship. Scott testified that he received support from the abstracting industry in his own campaigns but that he had concerns about how McMahan's trips to New Orleans with Phipps and his employees could be perceived. Phipps allegedly purchased expensive jewelry for Lori McMahan on these trips.

After Jeff McMahan was elected and Scott was working in the Land Commission Office, Scott said, Phipps called him in 2005 when Phipps was in a civil dispute with Stipe. Scott said a meeting was set up with Phipps, McMahan, an insurance commission representative and himself to talk about revoking Stipe's insurance license after Stipe was convicted of perjury and campaign violations.

Lori McMahan's attorney Kevin Krahl said the Tecumseh fifth-grade teacher is guilty of violating state campaign laws by taking money from Phipps for signs, radio spots and a campaign jingle. But Krahl said she never told her husband that trips to political conventions were paid for by Phipps.

At the end of his opening statement, Roberts said that Lori McMahan had said in a recorded conversation that she would "go to the pen" if Phipps was secretly recording her conversations. The prosecutor urged jurors to do exactly what Lori McMahan had feared. "Send 'em to the pen," he said.

Several others testified that Phipps asked them to contribute to McMahan's 2002 campaign and would reimburse them — sometimes a little more than they gave — for their trouble.

Some of the contributors also admitted to being "straw donors" in the campaigns of Gov. Brad Henry, U.S. Rep. Dan Boren, and former state Rep. Mike Mass, all Democrats.

Nita Magdalena, a Democratic Party organizer, said Phipps asked her to organize a fundraiser for Henry in January 2003 — after Henry had won his election. The fundraiser was successful, Magdalena said, and Phipps was able to give Henry about $100,000 in checks. Henry's spokesman Paul Sund said Monday that the Governor's Office did not have an immediate comment on Magdalena's testimony.

Citty Under Fire For Gun Control Comment

Oklahoma City Police Chief Bill Citty, who yesterday called for more gun control following a gang-related drive-by shooting that wounded six over the weekend, is under fire today from numerous quarters.

National Rifle Association news commentator Mike McCarville told NRA News listeners last night Citty "apparently has bought into the 'it's the guns, not the criminals' mindset" that propels those pushing gun control.

"Why isn't he talking about more gang control?" McCarville asked. "And since when do gang members pay any attention to gun laws? The only thing Citty's proposal would produce is more restrictions on those who already follow the law."

The NRA's Institute for Legislative Action put the Citty story on its international news wire feed, prompting numerous 2nd Amendment bloggers to comment.

The Oklahoma Shooters Association blog is jammed today with comments critical of Citty. Read them at http://www.okshooters.com/forums/showthread.php?t=30828.

Oklahoma City outdoor television and radio show host Ron Black scorches Citty in comments posted today on his blog.

KTOK radio talk show host Mark Shannon discussed Citty's remarks on his afternoon talk show.

Obama Superdelegate Floodgates To Open?

Senator Barack Obama's campaign began a concerted effort on Monday to rally undecided superdelegates around him so he can claim the Democratic presidential nomination after the primaries end on Tuesday night.

It appears likely that superdelegates in other states will be joined by some, if not all, of Oklahoma's last four undeclared superdelegates.

Sensing an opportunity to shut down the nominating contest, Obama's campaign advisers said that they were orchestrating an endorsement of Obama by at least eight Senate and House members who had pledged to remain uncommitted until the primaries ended, and that the endorsements would come the moment the South Dakota polls closed on Tuesday night.

The group will be led by Senator Tom Harkin of Iowa, who on Monday met with three other uncommitted Democratic senators — Ken Salazar of Colorado, Thomas Carper of Delaware and Benjamin Cardin of Maryland — at the offices of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee in what Salazar called a unity session.

Congressman James Clyburn of South Carolina, the No. 3 Democrat in the House and the highest-ranking African-American in Congress, set his formal endorsement of Obama for Tuesday, and he was urging others to do the same.

Other lawmakers and party insiders were also sending word that they would be falling in line behind Obama beginning as early as Tuesday morning.

Does Bill Speak For Hill?

Former President Bill Clinton dropped a hint Monday that the end might be nigh for his wife Hillary's dogged campaign for the Democratic White House nomination, according to reports.

"I want to say also that this may be the last day I'm ever involved in a campaign of this kind," the former president told Clinton supporters in South Dakota, ABC and NBC reported on their news websites.

"I thought I was out of politics, till Hillary decided to run. But it has been one of the greatest honors of my life to go around and campaign for her for president," he added at the start of his stump speech.

Other reports suggested that in the face of her rival Barack Obama's overwhelming lead, the New York senator is taking stock of whether to fight on beyond Tuesday's final primaries.

The former first lady's campaign announced that she would hold an election night "celebration" in her home state of New York, not in the final voting states of Montana or South Dakota.

The Politico website reported that far-flung members of Clinton's travelling staff had been summoned back to New York for Tuesday evening and told their roles on the campaign are ending.

"The move is a sign that the campaign is beginning to shed -- at least -- some of its staff," the report said.

John Albaugh Pleads Guilty

John Albaugh, 41, who was former Congressman Ernest Istook's chief of staff and a top aide on the House Appropriations subcommittee that had control over road projects, said in federal court in Washington he is guilty of conspiracy because he helped secure millions for road projects sought by clients of lobbyist Jack Abramoff's firm.

Albaugh, who now lives and works in South Carolina, is cooperating in the ongoing investigation into the Abramoff scandal and is expected to provide testimony against others.

He faces 18 and 24 months in prison but could get that reduced if he helps the government with its case. Sentencing is set for September 17th.

Parmley Waits Until Tuesday Votes Are In

One of the most sought-after Oklahoma Democratic National Convention superdelegates, former Oklahoma Democratic Party Chairman Jay Parmley, who now works for the Democratic National Committee, says he will make his decision public following Tuesday's final primaries.

Asked if he's made up his mind about which presidential candidate he supports, Parmley replied, "I spoke with Governor Henry, Barack Obama and officials with the Clinton campaign today and told all of them that I am standing by my word that I won't commi