Insurance Commish Doak endorses Stitt for Governor

OKLAHOMA INSURANCE COMMISSIONER JOHN DOAK ENDORSES KEVIN STITT FOR GOVERNOR

Tulsa, Oklahoma (August 23, 2018) – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak today announced his endorsement of Kevin Stitt for Governor of Oklahoma.

“Kevin Stitt is a business leader not a politician,” said Commissioner Doak. “I urge my fellow republicans to support an outsider not a career politician, I have met with Kevin and believe that he has the passion and focus to make Oklahoma a better place for future generations. Kevin is committed to serving the entire state not just Tulsa and OKC. Having a Governor that will regularly travel the state to all 77 counties is very important for input and direction. Stitt will bring common-sense solutions to Oklahoma!”

Doak is a conservative Oklahoma leader who was first elected as Insurance Commissioner in 2010.

Insurance Comm. Doak endorses Costello for Labor Commish

INSURANCE COMMISSIONER JOHN DOAK ENDORSES CATHY COSTELLO FOR LABOR COMMISSIONER

    Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner, John Doak, is endorsing conservative Republican Cathy Costello in the race for Labor Commissioner.

    “Cathy Costello is a successful businesswoman who knows first-hand the burden that red tape and government bureaucracy puts on small businesses,” Commissioner Doak says.  “I have known Cathy and Mark Costello since 2010.  I can assure you Cathy will bring a refreshing private sector perspective to the Labor Department.”

    Costello’s private sector experience includes starting her own business at age 15 and ultimately founding eight companies in six different industries.

    “Cathy is uniquely qualified to run the agency in an efficient manner free from the waste, fraud and abuse associated with government regulators,” says John Doak.  “She is a job creating entrepreneur who is respectful to all. I urge you to join with me in voting for Cathy Costello, because she is the conservative candidate in the race for Labor Commissioner.”

    Cathy Costello is a co-founder of several businesses, both domestic and international, and is a sought-after national speaker and advocate on issues of mental health.  She has been instrumental in passing major state and federal legislation to improve how employers address mental health needs in the workplace.

    The Republican primary for Labor Commissioner is scheduled for June 26, 2018 and the general election will be held November 6, 2018.

    For more information on Cathy Costello's campaign for Oklahoma Labor Commissioner, visit her website at www.CostelloForOK.com.

John Doak slams vote to weaken SQ640

In a post on Facebook, Insurance Commissioner John Doak slammed the State House GOP for voting to pass HJR 1050, which would weaken the Constitutional language put in place by SQ640 and make it easier for the Legislature to raise taxes without a vote of the people.

Doak wrote, Hard to believe this vote has happened in Oklahoma, I understand that Republicans have arrived at the flawed conclusion that this will ease the power of the Democrats, just wait till the Democrats take back the house with votes like this in my opinion. This has just paved the way for higher taxes in Oklahoma. (Republicans who think a majority is here to stay need to think again, our party needs to remain true to our principles) Our party is not the party of bigger state Government and raising taxes! This vote I fear will have significant political consequences. This is my personal opinion! Our party needs to govern by continuing to increase efficiency and effectiveness of limited Government and lowering taxes not making it easier to raise by lowering the threshold of votes needed. 

There is a war on for the heart and soul of the Oklahoma Republican Party, and John Doak is on the right side.

Conservative Leaders Rally to Support Matt Pinnell for Lt. Governor

Conservative Leaders Rally to Support Matt Pinnell for Lt. Governor

(Tulsa, OK) – Momentum continues to build for Matt Pinnell for Lt. Governor, as conservative leaders from across Oklahoma have enthusiastically rallied around his candidacy. Covering all corners of the state, and all walks of life, Pinnell has built strong support from grassroots leaders, conservative elected officials, and faith leaders. Here’s what a few of them are saying about Matt Pinnell:

“We are living in trying times for our great state. Expenses are up and revenues are down. Our infrastructure is in need of improvement. There is much work to be done. This is why I am strongly endorsing Matt Pinnell for Lt. Governor. Our state needs new leadership and I believe Matt is exactly what we need. Matt will be a tireless worker for the people of Oklahoma and will be the voice we need as we work to bring more businesses to our state.  Join me as I stand for Matt and his vision for Oklahoma!”
Pastor Robert Carter
Former 2nd District GOP and Delaware County GOP Chair
Grove, Oklahoma

"Matt Pinnell is a proven leader in Republican politics. He has experience representing Oklahoma at the national level and will be a tremendous asset selling the many unique capabilities and opportunities of our great state. I am proud to endorse Matt Pinnell for Oklahoma's next Lieutenant Governor."
Representative Jim Bridenstine (OK-01)

“As Chairman of the Oklahoma Republican Party, Matt Pinnell led our party to an unprecedented level of success; he then did the same thing nationally serving the RNC. Yet he always kept his focus here in Oklahoma. I know he would bring this passion and drive to the office of Lt. Governor. Matt is hardworking and cares deeply about the future of Oklahoma. I hope you'll join me in supporting Matt Pinnell as our next Lt. Governor.”
Casey Killblane
Davis, OK

“Matt Pinnell is a dynamic and talented leader who has a consistent record of success in every endeavor he's undertaken. He combines ethics and enthusiasm with a steady hand that gets the job done. Matt Pinnell will make a great Lt. Governor and ambassador for Oklahoma. I am proud to endorse him.”
Representative Steve Russell (OK-05)

“I got to know Matt Pinnell when he was training conservative activists across the state, before he chaired the Oklahoma Republican Party or worked with the RNC to build up state parties and elect President Trump. Matt gets things done with excellence, energy, and full dedication to the conservative cause. I believe that Matt will make a great Lieutenant Governor, advocating for the conservative principles that Oklahomans hold dear, and fighting for policies that will advance and strengthen our state. Please join me in electing Matt Pinnell as our next Lieutenant Governor.”
Jamison Faught
Former Muskogee County GOP State Committeeman and Vice Chair; writer for Muskogee Politico Blog
Muskogee, OK

“It is with pleasure and gratitude that I endorse Matt Pinnell’s election as Oklahoma’s next Lt. Governor. We need someone with the courage to lead, to be visionary, and to speak directly about our state’s path to success. That, my friends, is Matt Pinnell. He has created his own business, has led with conservative principles, and is a man of integrity and loyalty. The election of Matt is a vote for Oklahoma’s future.”
Dewey Bartlett
Former Mayor of Tulsa
Tulsa, OK

“We need a Lt. Governor that will prioritize core services and maximize the economic benefits of the state. Matt can do that and more. He will make an excellent salesman across our 77 counties and I’m happy to endorse him.”
Alan Jett
Beaver County, OK

"Matt's energy, ideas and experience make him uniquely qualified to be our Lieutenant Governor.  I hope you'll join me in supporting him.  I believe Oklahoma needs Matt Pinnell."
Michael Willis
Tulsa County Clerk

"I am proud to endorse Matt Pinnell for Lt. Governor. I first met Matt when I ran for Insurance Commissioner in 2010, and I immediately saw in him a natural ability to lead and bring people together. Matt is capable, energetic, and exactly the type of next-generation leader we need. Please join me in supporting Matt Pinnell as our next Lt. Governor."
Insurance Commissioner John “Okie” Doak
Tulsa, OK

“When I first heard Matt Pinnell was running for Lt. Governor I was so excited and immediately pledged my support. I worked for Matt when he was Oklahoma Republican Party State Chairman and let me tell you, it didn’t take long to realize this guy was going places! I have seen Matt enter a contentious environment, take charge, calm heated emotions, and leave the room with everyone on both sides of an issue happy and unified.  With one shake of his hand you know his heart. A heart for God, a heart for his family and a heart for this great state of Oklahoma. Matt’s high energy is contagious, as he smiles and shares his ideas of how he wants to help make our state the best state in the union. My husband and I are both proud and honored to give our full support to this young man. There is no one better for our state’s second highest position than Matt Pinnell!”
Donna Altom & Pastor Donald Altom
Hollis, OK

“I have known Matt for over 10 years and during that time observed his character, temperament, and leadership skills.  During Matt's three years as Chairman of the Oklahoma Republican Party, he facilitated and built coalitions with activists who often were at odds with one another.  Matt truly has the ability to get everyone to pull on the same end of the rope at the same time, which is a critical trait for effective leaders. Matt is also a visionary.  He sees the potential in what can be done and has the ability to develop and execute a plan to realize the vision.   Matt is a devoted husband and father.  He unashamedly exhibits his faith in his life.  Oklahoma needs people of character with leadership skills guiding our state- Matt Pinnell is that person.  Please join me in supporting and voting for Matt Pinnell for Lt. Governor, Oklahoma's next generation of leadership.”
Steve Fair
Former GOP National Committeeman, 4th District GOP Chair, and Stephens County GOP Chair
Duncan, OK

"Matt Pinnell is a next-generation conservative leader that I can get excited about. In both politics and business, Matt has demonstrated the leadership skill of building consensus and bringing people together. I'm honored to endorse him for Lt. Governor."
State Senator Jason Smalley
Marine Corps Veteran
Stroud, OK

“Matt cherishes his faith and his family. We know that he will represent hard-working Oklahoma families with integrity. That's why we are proud to support him as our next Lt Governor.”
Dustin and Nicole Rowe
Tishomingo, OK

“I worked closely with Matt when I was a State Representative. I saw firsthand his ability to bring people together and solve tough problems. He’s been a leader at the state and national level, and I’m excited to see what he will accomplish as our next Lt. Governor. That’s why he has my full endorsement.”
Lee Denney
Former State Representative, District 33
Cushing, OK

“Serving as Mayor of Edmond and later on the Oklahoma Corporation Commission, I saw firsthand some of the many challenges our communities and our state face. Matt Pinnell has a talent and passion for Oklahoma that will help lead our state forward as we confront these challenges. Whether in the political arena or as a small business owner, Matt has a proven track record of success that Oklahomans can rely on. That's why I'm proud to endorse Matt as our next Lieutenant Governor.”
Patrice Douglas
Former Corporation Commissioner and Mayor of Edmond
Edmond, OK

“Matt is a problem solver, I saw it firsthand when I was County Chairman. He understands the issues that we face in rural Oklahoma as well. For these reasons and many more, I’m thrilled to help and endorse him in his campaign for Lt. Governor.”
Martyn McMurphey
Guymon, OK

“As a small businessman and successful conservative political leader, Matt Pinnell is uniquely qualified to lead Oklahoma during this challenging time. Our state needs leaders who are able to work with our next governor and legislature, and who will bring new, innovative ideas to the table. Matt Pinnell is that leader, and that's why I'm supporting him as Oklahoma's next Lt. Governor.”
Ann Felton
Philanthropist and Community Leader
Oklahoma City, OK

“While serving in the state legislature, I saw first-hand the challenges that our state faces. In both politics and business, Matt Pinnell has demonstrated leadership, good judgement, and high character. He has the values and experience that Oklahoma needs to move our state in the right direction, and that's why I'm supporting Matt to be our next Lieutenant Governor.”
Pam Peterson
Former State Representative, District 67
Tulsa, OK

Pinnell is the former Chairman of the Oklahoma Republican Party and was most recently RNC National State Party Director. In that role, Pinnell served as the chief liaison between the RNC and state parties. Pinnell traveled to all 50 states, and played an integral role in Republicans taking control of the United States Senate in 2014 and winning the White House in 2016. Pinnell and his wife Lisa own and operate a successful small business in Tulsa. You can learn more at www.MattPinnell.com.

Hern holding special election campaign kickoff Thursday

Kevin Hern for Congress Announces Kickoff Event

Tulsa, OK –Kevin Hern invites you to join his family, John Doak, and Don Newberry as he formally announces his candidacy in the special election for Oklahoma’s 1st Congressional District and kickstarts his campaign this Thursday, September 14, 2017. The special election is taking place due to President Trump’s nomination of Representative Jim Bridenstine to head NASA.

“For the past 19 years, my family has had the honor to call Tulsa home,” said Mr. Hern. “In that time, I have been proud to get to know members of our diverse community through both living and working here. These relationships have led to a newfound passion for serving the people of Oklahoma’s 1st Congressional District in the United States Congress.

“Now, more than ever, the American people understand that we need proven problem solvers, who understand how to create jobs, representing the people’s interest in Washington D.C. I have first-hand knowledge on not only how to create jobs, but also on the damage government bureaucrats cause to our economy. I will use my experience to change the way business is done in Washington. I look forward to sharing my solutions to the problems facing our nation as I campaign throughout the district.”

The event will be held at Jenks Central Park, 208 N. Elm, from 6:00-7:30PM. The event is free and open to the public.

Insurance Commish Doak endorses Hern for Congress

Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak Endorses Kevin Hern For Oklahoma’s 1st Congressional Seat

Tulsa, OK – Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak has endorsed Kevin Hern for Oklahoma’s 1st Congressional Seat being vacated by Representative Jim Bridenstine who has declared to not seek re-election in 2018.

"I am proud to endorse Kevin Hern for the 1st congressional seat,” stated Commissioner John Doak. “Kevin is the right man at the right time – we need a conservative, business-minded leader who has the know-how to take the power back from the federal government and return it to the people. I am excited about supporting Kevin because he has the understanding to untangle the healthcare insurance mess with free-market solutions."

John Doak was elected Oklahoma’s Insurance Commissioner in 2010 and was re-elected to his second term in 2014. Doak is a member of the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) where he serves as the chairman of both the Property and Casualty Insurance Committee and the Antifraud Task Force.

“I am humbled and encouraged to have received the endorsement of Commissioner Doak in my race for Congress,” said Hern. “The best quality and choice of care is given through a free-market driven healthcare system. It is that type of free-market system Americans appreciate about our options in healthcare, not federal government over-regulation. I have lived this out by creating self-insured programs in my company, and I will take these innovative free-market solutions to Congress.”

As the owner of KTAK Corporation, Kevin leads the operations that own ten McDonald’s restaurants that employ over 400 people in the Tulsa area. Kevin has served in various regional and national leadership positions within the McDonald’s Franchise System. Most recently, he served 5 years as the Chairman of the Systems Economic Team for over 3,000 franchisees that own all 15,000 restaurants across the entire country.

Doak, Bridenstine endorse Mulready for Insurance Commissioner

State Rep. Glen Mulready, Republican candidate for Insurance Commissioner, announced two major endorsements in the past week:

Insurance Commissioner John Doak Endorses Glen Mulready  

TULSA, OK – Today, Insurance Commissioner John Doak endorsed Glen Mulready and his bid to become his successor at the Oklahoma Insurance Department.

“I cannot think of anyone more suited to be our state’s next Insurance Commissioner than Glen Mulready,” stated Insurance Commissioner John Doak. “I have known and worked with Glen for many years in the insurance industry. In his role as the Chairman of the House Insurance Committee, we have continued to work together on many legislative reforms aimed at safeguarding consumers and creating a more robust business climate. Glen Mulready is the kind of experienced, trusted conservative we need as our next Insurance Commissioner and I am honored to support him.”

John Doak was elected Oklahoma’s 12th Insurance Commissioner in 2011 and was re-elected to his second term in 2015. He is active in the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) where he serves as the Chair of the Property and Casualty Insurance Committee and the Antifraud Task Force. Doak is also a member of the Association’s Government Relations Leadership Council, the International Relations Leadership Group and is an NAIC representative to the International Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development. Prior to being elected, Doak worked in the insurance in Tulsa for 30 years.
“I am honored to receive Commissioner Doak’s endorsement,” said Mulready. “It is encouraging to know that he believes I am the right candidate to fill his shoes at the Insurance Department and I look forward to visiting with Oklahomans across the state about my vision for the department over the coming months.”

Commissioner Doak’s endorsement comes just three days after Mulready was also endorsed by 1st District Congressman Jim Bridenstine.

Mulready spent 13 years on the executive teams of Oklahoma’s two largest health insurance companies and for the last eight years has been self-employed as an independent broker working with businesses of all sizes. He has worked in the insurance industry for more than 33 years.

Mulready has also led numerous efforts to reform our state’s insurance laws in his capacity as a state legislator. He was first elected to represent House District 68 as a Republican in the Oklahoma House of Representatives in 2010 and currently serves as a Majority Floor Leader.


On the 11th, Mulready sent out the following endorsement announcement: 

Congressman Bridenstine Endorses Glen Mulready for Insurance Commissioner

TULSA, OK – Congressman Jim Bridenstine has endorsed Glen Mulready for Insurance Commissioner after he announced last week that he had filed his Statement of Organization to form a campaign committee with the Oklahoma Ethics Commission.

"I am proud to endorse Glen Mulready for Insurance Commissioner,” stated Congressman Jim Bridenstine, “Glen is a principled leader with more than 33 years of experience working in the insurance industry and seven years as a member of the Oklahoma House of Representatives. Glen Mulready will be a great Insurance Commissioner."

Congressman Jim Bridenstine was elected to represent Oklahoma’s First Congressional District in 2012. He is a veteran of the United States Navy, where he flew combat missions in Iraq and Afghanistan. After leaving active duty and prior to being elected to Congress, Bridenstine returned to Tulsa to serve as the Executive Director of the Tulsa Air and Space Museum and Planetarium.

“I am honored to have received the endorsement of Congressman Bridenstine in the first few days of my campaign for Insurance Commissioner,” said Mulready. “He is a respected lawmaker and his support is humbling and encouraging as I begin traveling the state and visiting with Oklahomans about my experience and vision for the Insurance Department in the coming months.”

Mulready spent 13 years on the executive teams of Oklahoma’s two largest health insurance companies and for the last eight years has been self-employed as an independent broker working with businesses of all sizes. He has worked in the insurance industry for more than 33 years.

Mulready has also led numerous efforts to reform the state’s insurance laws in his capacity as a state legislator. He was first elected to represent House District 68 as a Republican in the Oklahoma House of Representatives in 2010 and currently serves as a Majority Floor Leader.

State Rep. Glen Mulready files for Insurance Commissioner

Glen Mulready Files Statement of Organization for Insurance Commissioner

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – Long-time insurance professional Glen Mulready filed a ‘Statement of Organization’ with the Oklahoma Ethics Commission over the weekend to form the Friends of Glen Mulready, 2018 campaign committee. The committee will support the Tulsa businessman’s 2018 campaign for Insurance Commissioner.

“I have spent my career creating insurance solutions for large and small businesses alike and after thoughtful and prayerful consideration with my wife, Sally, I have formed a campaign committee so that I may travel across the state talking to Oklahomans about how I can apply my experience to help safeguard them as their next Insurance Commissioner,” Mulready said.

Mulready spent 13 years on the executive teams of Oklahoma’s two largest health insurance companies and for the last eight years has been self-employed as an independent broker working with businesses of all sizes. He has worked in the insurance industry for more than 33 years.

Mulready has also led numerous efforts to reform the state’s insurance laws in his capacity as a state legislator. He was first elected to represent House District 68 as a Republican in the Oklahoma House of Representatives in 2010 and currently serves as the Majority Floor Leader.

Vaughn Graham, President of Rich & Cartmill, will serve as the chair of Friends of Glen Mulready, 2018 and Gip Gibson, President of Commerce Bank, will serve as the Treasurer.

Insurance Commish John Doak endorses Pinnell for Lt. Gov

Insurance Commissioner John Doak has officially endorsed Matt Pinnell's campaign for Lieutenant Governor in 2018:

Pinnell, a past chairman of the Oklahoma Republican Party, announced his campaign on April 20th, and has also been endorsed by Congressman Jim Bridenstine.

Insurance Commish Doak endorses Cruz for President

Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak Endorses Ted Cruz for President

HOUSTON, Texas – Presidential candidate Ted Cruz today announced the endorsement Oklahoma Insurance Commissioner John Doak.

“I am thrilled to announce the endorsement of such a respected Oklahoma leader,” Cruz said. “Commissioner Doak is a courageous conservative who has led the fight against Obamacare in Oklahoma, stands firm in his pro-life advocacy and has operated his agency under budget, returning $28.5 million in unspent funds to the state treasury. He joins an impressive group of conservatives supporting our campaign in Oklahoma, led by Congressman Jim Bridenstine.”

“Ted Cruz is the trusted, consistent conservative we need in the White House," Doak said. "We can count on him to stop Obamacare, restore the rule of law, and follow the Constitution. I am honored to support him for president.”

In 2011, John D. Doak became the 12th Insurance Commissioner of Oklahoma.  He was sworn in to office for a second term on January 12, 2015, after receiving 77 percent of the vote. Doak is actively involved with the National Association of Insurance Commissioners (NAIC) and currently serves on the Executive and Government Relations Committees.

Doak agrees with Cruz that regulation of insurance needs to be left to the states. Doak has been a small businessman and executive in the insurance industry for over two decades.

2014 Statewide Election Preview: 3Q Finance Reports

As the 2014 elections approach, five incumbent statewide elected officials have yet to draw an opponent, while three have challengers who are filing campaign finance reports. Whether there is a contested race yet or not, the 3rd Quarter ethics reports show an interesting preview of the upcoming electoral contests.

Filing for statewide office in 2014 will be on April 9th to April 11th, with the Primary being held on June 24th. Runoff elections (if necessary) will be on August 26th, and the General election is on November 4th.

Candidates will be listed in order of most cash-on-hand. Incumbents are in bold.

ATTORNEY GENERAL

Scott Pruitt (R)
3Q raised: $86,252.82  -  3Q spent: $27,962.83  -  Cash-on-hand: $123,138.70

AUDITOR & INSPECTOR

Gary Jones (R)
3Q raised: $250  -  3Q spent: $0  -  Cash-on-hand: $6,588.33

GOVERNOR

Mary Fallin (R)
3Q raised: $368,243.12  -  3Q spent: $108,227.86  -  Cash-on-hand: $1,218,401.35

INSURANCE COMMISSIONER

John Doak (R)
3Q raised: $51,275  -  3Q spent: $20,955.44  -  Cash-on-hand: $294,475.14

LABOR COMMISSIONER

Mark Costello (R)
3Q raised: $202,000  -  3Q spent: $0  -  Cash-on-hand: $202,000
Michael Workman (D)
3Q raised: $500  -  3Q spent: $1,188.05  -  Cash-on-hand: $40.95

LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR

Todd Lamb (R)
3Q raised: $382,488.59  -  3Q spent: $9,788.44  -  Cash-on-hand: $414,664.63
Cathy Cummings (D)
3Q raised: $1,750  -  3Q spent: $676.80  -  Cash-on-hand: $1,533.20

SUPERINTENDENT OF PUBLIC INSTRUCTION

Joy Hofmeister (R)
3Q raised: $83,136  -  3Q spent: $27,221.75  -  Cash-on-hand: $200,086.61
Janet Barresi (R)
3Q raised: $48,850  -  3Q spent: $41,466.44  -  Cash-on-hand: $149,130.07
John Cox (D)
3Q raised: $69,280.70  -  3Q spent: $10,162.57  -  Cash-on-hand: $58,186
Donna Anderson (D)
3Q raised: $11,877.64  -  3Q spent: $13,845.52  -  Cash-on-hand: $4,395.38
Jack Herron (D)
3Q raised: $3,950  -  3Q spent: $224.80  -  Cash-on-hand: $3,725.20
Freda Deskin (D)
{filed after 3Q deadline}
Ivan Holmes (D)
{filed after 3Q deadline}

TREASURER

Ken Miller (R)
3Q raised: $51,000  -  3Q spent: $672.29  -  Cash-on-hand: $116,186.19


Interesting notes:

• Big money: Governor Fallin officially tops the million-dollar mark in cash-on-hand, with seven months left before candidate filing. Talk about formidable.
• Most: Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb raised the most this quarter ($382,000), edging out Fallin by $14,000.
• Loans: Labor Commissioner Costello ($202,000); John Cox ($50,162.57); Donna Anderson ($1,000)
• Hot race: The big race of 2014 will be the State Superintendent seat. Two Republicans and five Democrats have campaign accounts right now, and that number will probably go higher.
• Low spenders: Auditor Gary Jones and Labor Commissioner Costello both spent no money in the third quarter, and Treasurer Ken Miller spent less than $700. 
• Slow start: Jones raised $250, and Costello raised nothing (outside of his $202k loan).

Reynolds files bill to restrict state hiring of ex-legislators

Bill Filed to Ban Lawmakers from Most State Jobs

OKLAHOMA CITY (January 9, 2012) – State Rep. Mike Reynolds has filed legislation to eliminate loopholes that allow state lawmakers to accept high-paying state jobs after leaving the Oklahoma Legislature.

House Bill 2194 would make it illegal for any Oklahoma lawmaker to take a state government job that pays more than the base legislative salary. The ban would be in place for two years after a legislator steps down from his elective position.

“If lawmakers can be good public servants while earning $38,000 in the Oklahoma Legislature, they should be able to do the same thing at the same salary if they want to continue working in state government,” said Reynolds, R-Oklahoma City. “Most importantly, this legislation will end the perception that some legislators have used their political connections to feather their nest with cushy government jobs after they leave elective office.”

Although there is currently a ban on lawmakers taking state jobs for two years after the end of their terms in office, that ban applies only to positions funded directly by legislative appropriations. That loophole has allowed lawmakers to accept jobs paid with federal dollars or fee revenue that is not appropriated.

“I think Oklahoma citizens have made it clear that they do not want legislators to work in state government immediately following the end of their terms in office to reduce the chance of someone selling votes for a job,” Reynolds said. “By ensuring lawmakers can only take positions paying the same as the base legislative salary, we can end the perception of corruption that troubles so many Oklahoma citizens.”

Reynolds files this bill after controversy erupted in early 2011 over three ex-legislators receiving state jobs right after leaving office.

• State Sen. Glenn Coffee was appointed by Governor Mary Fallin to serve as Secretary of State; Coffee had left the state senate in 2010 due to term limits. 
• State Sen. Randy Brogdon was hired by Insurance Commissioner John Doak to work in the Insurance Department; Brogdon had left the state senate in 2010 to run for governor.
• State Rep. Mike Thompson was hired by Insurance Commissioner John Doak to work in the Insurance Department; Thompson had left the state house in 2010 to run for Congress.

In the case of the three men, each of their salaries was paid for by agency-collected fees, in order to comply with the ban on ex-legislators being paid with legislatively-appropriated dollars for two years after leaving office. 

Former State Sen. Owen Laughlin also took a position with Commissioner Doak, but unlike the others, Laughlin had been out of office for four years, making his hiring clearly above any controversy.

Brogdon's take on the two-year moratorium

As controversy continues over the appointment and/or hiring of ex-legislators by Governor Fallin and Insurance Commissioner John Doak, former State Sen. Randy Brogdon weighs in with his take. Brogdon, now with a job in the Insurance Department, is one of the three hires in question.

Many of my supporters have been asking what I will be doing in the future, so I want to give you an update.  I have been asked by Insurance Commissioner John Doak to serve as his Deputy Commissioner of the Fraud Division.  I am honored to serve and am excited about the opportunities to protect the citizens of Oklahoma. 

There has been a lot of discussion whether or not legislators can work for a state agency within two years after their legislative service is over.  The answer to that question is yes.  As a matter of fact there have been several Supreme Court decisions as well as Attorney Generals opinion stating the affirmative.  Following is an honest appraisal of the facts along with the spirit and the intent of the law.

The bill has three distinct provisions.  First, no member of the legislature can be appointed to an office that was created during his term of office.

Secondly, no member can receive an appointment from the Governor during his term of office.

The third provision of the bill deals with the two year moratorium which is often mischaracterized. The moratorium specifically restricts a legislator from entering into a “contract” with any state agency that was authorized during his term of office.

For example if the legislature created the “Department of Prescription Drugs” during his term of office he could not serve or contract with that department for a period of two years after his term was over.

The letter of the law and the spirit of the law are not to restrict a former legislator from working for a state agency, it is simply designed to prevent a legislator form having influence in creating a position and then moving directly in to it.

Other Oklahoma bloggers have been discussing this topic as well. Mike McCarville posted a poll asking if the appointments violated the spirit of the "no hire" law; 60% said that it went against it. Ron Black agreed with McCarville's poll respondents.

I'll be posting more on this issue later. The section of the Oklahoma Constitution in question is here.

General Election Results - Insurance Commissioner

Click here for the entire Muskogee Politico series of election results maps.

And yes, Doak and Holland tied at 899 votes apiece in Cotton County.

Statewide candidates loan their campaigns money... lots of it

Last night was the deadline for campaigns to file their ethics reports for the past reporting period (8/10-10/18). One of the most interesting tidbits I noticed about these reports is how many of the statewide candidates loaned their campaigns money, and how much they gave.

• Gubernatorial candidate Jari Askins (D) loaned herself $300,000 on September 21st, and $50,000 on October 18th. That brings her campaign-to-date total to $1,225,000.
• State Auditor candidate Steve Burrage (D) loaned himself $225,000 on September 2nd, $136,000 on September 14th, and $100,000 on September 7th. His campaign-to-date total is $486,193.60.
• Treasurer candidate Ken Miller (R) loaned himself $50,000 on October 18th.
• State Superintendent candidate Janet Barresi (R) loaned herself $456,345.44 on October 1st, bringing her campaign-to-date total to $731,345.44.
• Labor Commissioner candidate Mark Costello (R) loaned himself $75,000 on August 31st, $60,000 on September 30th, and $20,000 on October 18th. His campaign-to-date total is $483,662.78.
• Insurance Commissioner candidate John Doak (R) loaned himself $53,500 on August 11th, $10,000 on August 16th, $40,000 on August 18th, $25,000 on August 20th, and $50,000 on October 15th. That makes his campaign-to-date total $213,600.

In this past reporting period, two Democrat statewide candidates loaned their campaigns a total $811,000.00, while four Republican statewide candidates gave their campaigns $786,345.44.

OKGOP Presents "Accountability Day"

The Oklahoma Republican Party presents "Accountability Day: The Day Oklahoma Fought Back", starring hard hitters like Dr. Tom Coburn, Mary Fallin, Scott Pruitt, Gary Jones, and others:

Rated "R" for "Republican", coming November 2nd.

Republican Runoff Results - Insurance Commission

Runoff Primary Election Results

The polls have officially closed - results are coming. I'll post the results for the major runoffs.


Insurance Commissioner - 2219 (100%) of 2219 precincts

• John Crawford:  35294 (29.45%)
• John Doak: 84570 (70.55%) - winner

2nd Congressional District - 570 (100%) of 570 precincts

• Daniel Edmonds: 3644 (32.73%)
• Charles Thompson: 7489 (67.27%) - winner

5th Congressional District - 324 (100%) of 324 precincts

• Kevin Calvey: 15899 (34.78%)
• James Lankford: 29814 (67.27%) - winner
  

The State Election Board is posting results here for these and other runoffs.

Vote: Runoff Primary Election

Don't forget to vote! The runoff election is today! While the ballot won't be as full as it was on July 27th, it is still very important that you go vote.

Here are the major races that will be decided today, in addition to numerous lower offices:

The 2nd Congressional District GOP race has come down to two men - Charles Thompson and Daniel Edmonds. The winner will go up against incumbent Democrat Congressman Dan Boren. If you're still undecided in this race, read this post. I endorsed, and recommend voting for, Daniel Edmonds.

The 5th Congressional District GOP race is between James Lankford and Kevin Calvey. The winner here will run against a Democrat and two Independents, although the GOP nominee is heavily favored to win in this district. If you're still undecided, read this post. I endorsed, and recommend voting for, James Lankford.

The race on the GOP side for Insurance Commissioner is now between John Crawford and John Doak. The winner will face incumbent Democrat Commissioner Kim Holland. This is a state-wide office, so all Republicans are eligible to vote in this race, at the very least. I endorsed, and recommend voting for, John Doak.

Don't forget to vote!

Huckabee Endorses John Doak for Insurance Commissioner

Former Arkansas Governor, 2008 GOP primary presidential candidate, and Fox News show host Mike Huckabee has endorsed John Doak for the GOP Insurance Commissioner runoff.

Huck PAC and I are proud to endorse John Doak for Insurance Commissioner of Oklahoma. John and I agree that Oklahoma needs true conservatives at all levels of government. John is ready to lead now – and will work to advocate for the common-sense solutions to insurance problems for the betterment of all in Oklahoma.

John is passionately pro-life, shares our social values and is opposed to federally mandated insurance – in fact, he’s the only candidate in this race who has joined a federal lawsuit against Obamacare. John is also leading the way against the 1% tax on health insurance claims paid in Oklahoma, a fight which will help bring businesses back to Oklahoma and make Oklahoma more business friendly.

Please join me in supporting John Doak for insurance commissioner for Oklahoma. 

The runoff election is on August 24th, and will be between John Doak and John Crawford. Since the primary, when Crawford eeked out a first place finish, Doak has racked up endorsements by GOP officials. This is the latest endorsement for Doak, and highest profile to date.