Fallin's Decision Stirs Candidate Speculation

The race to succeed Congresswoman Mary Fallin in the 5th District will be a contested one, likely to draw a huge field of Republican candidates.

With word on Friday that Fallin has all but publicly declared her intention to run for governor, the talk about contenders has erupted.

Known to be considering the race are Republicans Kevin Calvey, former House member who sought the nomination in the 2006 primary; Mick Cornett, mayor of Oklahoma City who lost the 2006 GOP runoff to Fallin; Dr. Johnny Roy, who ran last in the 2006 GOP primary; and Mike Thompson, Oklahoma City House member, a Realtor who was an assistant to former Congressman Ernest Istook.

Among Democrats, speculation focuses on State Senator Andrew Rice, defeated decisively in his 2008 U. S. Senate race against incumbent Jim Inhofe. Some say ousted Corporation Commissioner Jim Roth may also consider the race; Roth lost his seat to Republican Dana Murphy last year. Despite his declared gay lifestyle, Roth won election to the Oklahoma County Commission before being appointed to the Corporation Commission by Governor Henry.

Fallin declared her intention to run for governor in a conference call with supporters.

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