Oklahoma Insight

Inhofe Second Spot 'Africa'

2008-06-10T16:19:00.004-06:00

Sorry just not following this, since when did Africa become such a big issue. And here is the real head scratcher, Iraq is in Africa?

Corporation Commission

2008-06-09T20:34:00.004-06:00

The GOP candidates are offering an early preview of their July 29th showdown. The challenge by Rob Johnson of Dana Murphy's candidacy is so technical in nature, that the 11th Commandment seems to be completely forgotten, Reagan is surely rolling in his grave. It seems as if Murphy, the former State GOP Vice-Chair will survive Johnson's challenge of her candidacy. However unclear is whether she will survive Johnson's better fund primary run. One thing does remain clear this primary race will be very costly and surely won't be a pretty one to watch.

Oh and by the way, while the GOP candidates will be blowing hundreds of thousands running against each other, the Democratic incumbent will be raising hundreds of thousands of dollars. Jim Roth already reported $175,000 as of the April 1st. I wouldn't be surprised if Roth takes $300,000 in the 3rd quarter alone. The list of Roth's honorary chairman explains it all: Aubrey McClendon, George Kaiser, Harold Hamm and Clayton Bennentt.

Inhofe's Veteran's voting record questioned.

2008-06-05T20:30:00.001-06:00

State Senate Race Becomes Clearer

2008-06-05T15:35:00.003-06:00

With the 24-24 split of the Senate a few key races will be where control is decided. There will be four key races were all sides could spend $1 million dollars on each race. The contested seats are District 15 in Norman, District 21 in Stillwater (where there are 2 Dems running), District 31 in Lawton and, District 37 in Tulsa (2 GOP candidates).
On the Republican side there will be heated primaries for District 35 in Tulsa and District 45 in Oklahoma City. My early picks to win each seat are former Tulsa City Councilor Cason Carter, and in 45 LTC Steve Russell who played a key role in the capture of Saddam Hussein. It's hard to beat a record of service like his.
On an interesting note Bowdy Peach is running as a Democrat in district 27 which has long been held by the GOP. Peach is the son of Terry Peach who is the Secretary of Agriculture. Peach represents a serious candidate on the Democratic side for the first time in a while in this area. Peach, a rancher and professional bull rider, during filing said, "My values are right on track with most of the people in western Oklahoma and the Panhandle."

Jim Inhofe hits the Airwaves

2008-06-04T16:08:00.004-06:00

Jim Inhofe is already spending money to buy ad spots, he has a lot of cash on hand but not enough to stay up uninterrupted until election day. This ad is like most intro ads as it seeks to frame the debate long before his opponent can define him.
He focuses on three issues central to his record. First the stopping the BRAC base closings, second finding a solution for Tar Creek (even though the State started a limited buyout before the feds), and increasing funding for roads in the State.
It appears that the abandoned road that Inhofe is walking down is the decommissioned section of the Will Rogers Turnpike in Catoosa.

State Senate Preview

2008-05-27T09:01:00.006-06:00

Things are finally heating up now that the legislative session has now ended the State Senate races are heating up. I will now preview a couple of hot races.
District 37
This race will most likely be the most expensive and competitive of all. Sen. Nancy Riley will run for re-election for the first time since she switched her registration to the Democratic Party. She has maintained her voting record the last two years so on issues none of her stances have changed. Her top priority is education, she is pro-life, and remains committed to programs for child wellbeing. Her opponent is a mortgage lender Dan Newberry. So far the biggest difference between the two would be in their commitment to education, Riley was a school teacher before coming to the Senate and is one of common education's strongest advocates. Newberry would not make education a priority like Riley has. Another boost to Riley's campaign is the bond package that includes 25 million for improvements to the Arkansas River which runs through all of district 37.

Other districts where competitive races will occur are
District 21, Stillwater area, where former OSU President Halligan is the current favorite to take the seat from outgoing Democratic leader Mike Morgan.
District 15, Norman area, where Senator Nichols will face a challenge from Diane Drum.
District 31, Lawton area, where Senator Barrington will face a challenge from Keith Erwin.

District 33, Tulsa, which was a very competitive district in 2004 as Senator Adelson won by less than a 1,000 votes seems to be moving toward a strong democratic hold as Adelson has raised over $300,000 and the republicans have yet to announce a candidate a few weeks from filing.

Mitt Romney "Ocean"

2007-07-16T16:27:00.000-06:00

This ad is one of the biggest fluff pieces yet, all talk, no plans. Plus for the Romney campaign it doesn't even show his face for much more than a second.

Ann Coulter vs Elizabeth Edwards

2007-06-26T17:40:00.000-06:00

Ann Coulter vs Elizabeth Edwards on Hardball 6/26

Tort Troubles in Texas

2007-06-14T12:47:00.000-06:00

From the Fort Worth Star Telegram 6/10

The Web site for orthopedic surgeon Jack Thomas shows the doe-eyed medical doctor with a "great bedside manner" and lists kindness and compassion as "hallmarks of his care."

Photographs of Thomas with an elderly patient appear as the words, "Dr. Thomas helped me to walk again. ... He is the most caring doctor I have ever had," take turns flashing across the home page.

The Texas Medical Board Web site also shows that Thomas -- who practices in a small community 45 miles northeast of Dallas -- has published a book on medical ethics. In fact, the only blemish that was on the site's profile of the physician earlier this spring was a December 1991 report of "mental incapacity."

But those who browsed another Web site -- the Texas Department of Public Safety -- would have discovered that Thomas pleaded guilty to three felonies, including Medicare fraud and illegally prescribing many dosage units of dangerous narcotics to people who weren't his patients. The federal Drug Enforcement Administration yanked his controlled-substances prescription license, and he served a 10-year probation until 2001.

A phone call to the Texas Medical Board would have revealed that Thomas, who was diagnosed with bipolar disorder, surrendered his medical license in 1991. He got it back in 1999.

Such gaps in the board's physician profiles are one of the cracks in the system that was supposed to add new layers of protection for Texas patients. Lawmakers supplied the board with more money -- a 50 percent increase in 2004 -- and new powers. The commitment was that patients would be more aggressively protected in the wake of new legislation that, in effect, made it more difficult for patients to sue doctors for malpractice. But after the initial push, resources have been cut back, and state data do not indicate that the Legislature has made good on its promises to beef up protections.

If this is what tort reform means, I am really scared. Personally I'd like to have recourse against a doctor like Thomas, but I guess am not entitled to that. It's more important as many doctors have said to cut these malpractice claims down so they can afford to live*... ok, fair enough.
*According to a Durant doctor the malpractice insurance prevented him from buying a boat. What I'd like to be able to afford to buy a boat to. Maybe Oklahoma should stop trying to be like Texas and instead be better!

Brent Rinehart for Governor?

2007-06-11T19:52:00.001-06:00

The Oklahoman is reporting that an anonymous person posted drunk photos of embattled Oklahoma county commissioner Brent Rinehart on the internet. Also someone purchased a billboard in downtown OKC proclaiming "Rinehart for Governor!"

New Abortion Bill To Require Fetal Consent

2007-06-11T19:32:00.000-06:00

New Abortion Bill To Require Fetal Consent

Google in OK

2007-05-03T16:01:00.000-06:00

The recent developments at the Mid America Industrial Park are good news for Oklahoma. In 2006 Oklahoma's per capita personal income was $32,210 ranking 37th in the nation. The nearly 200 jobs at Google's data server will have an average salary at about $48,000; close to the state's average household income of $51,000. Compare to Pryor's current average personal income $16,887, these jobs are extraordinary. Plus Google jobs have other benefits like paternity leave for men and women, free meals on campus and more. These jobs are the quality jobs we always talk about attracting to our state. What is even more notable is that these jobs are being located not in the metro areas, but rather in rural Oklahoma, where job growth is most needed. This is great news for our state, especially rural Oklahoma. Brad Henry has done a pretty good job in economic development so far. Hopefully we can keep up this momentum and diversify our economy farther.

Can't wait for Gravel to debate again!

2007-04-28T19:41:00.000-06:00

Sen. Mike Gravel is just so entertaining, he really livens up the debate. His passion makes Howard Dean look like Al Gore.

Mary Fallin shows her smarts!

2007-04-27T20:52:00.000-06:00

At today's fundraiser in Tulsa where Dick Cheney appeared, Mary Fallin showed off her smarts. At the event people wore name tags. Before the picture of each donor was taken with the Vice President, the name tags were moved to the back. Then after they had their pictures taken they moved the tag back to the front. Well everyone did except Fallin, who walked around with her name tag on her backside through out the event. It almost seemed like Fallin was wearing a big 'kick me' sign on her back.

Cheney Fundraiser Scaled Back

2007-04-27T19:42:00.000-06:00

While much of the media is painting the Cheney appearance at a fundraiser as a great success, I don't see it that way. Originally the fundraiser was to include a round table discussion with donors who not only gave the maximum personally, but bundled several thousand more in addition. By the visit of Cheney being cut short it is a signal that Cheney is not the draw he was just 3 years ago. Also it could spell trouble for the Inhofe campaign as a far a fundraising. The crowd for this event was remarkably less then the turnout for the 2004 event also held in Tulsa. Given that Oklahoma is one of the few places that Cheney can still effectively raise money, the recent showing may be a sign of the inability of the White House to aide congressional candidates in 2008.

On the protester side of things, it is actually pretty remarkable that protesters were there at all. The low level of publicity of the event seemed it was destined for uneventful day. However ten protesters were cited and one arrested. This doesn't normally happen with a quick Vice Presidential visit, especially in Oklahoma.

Senate Will uphold Henry's Veto on 714

2007-04-20T17:49:00.000-06:00

The piece of legislation by Sen. Williamson (R-Tulsa) that eliminates the practice of abortions even under the situations of rape and incest was vetoed by Governor Henry on Wednesday, only had 16 Senators vote against it one fewer than needed to protect a veto. While Williamson claims that he could get 32 votes to override the veto, it seems unlikely. Yesterday, Sen. Rabon told me that Democrats have at least 17 solid votes to uphold the veto. On interesting note is that if it had not lacked the exemptions for rape and incest, it would probably be law.

Rinehart should step down.

2007-04-06T15:37:00.000-06:00

The charges against embattled Oklahoma County Commissioner Bert Rinehart and his campaign manager Tim Pope include money laundering, conspiracy, and perjury in relation to fund raising in Rinehart's 2004 campaign. Personally, I question the need for all the funds because I received numerous prices of campaign literature and don't live in Rinehart's district. I don't even live in Oklahoma County, this campaign had poorly run operation all over it. With Rinehart dealing with the court proceeding of this case, there is no way he can competently serve as commissioner. It is time for him to step down. If Rinehart does not step down on his own, Commissioners Roth and Vaughn should take steps to remove him.

Rudy in Oklahoma

2007-03-29T20:07:00.000-06:00

I think this picture from the Oklahoman pretty much shows that Rudy has already embraced the Oklahoma way of life.

Flashback: 2002 Lottery Campaign

2007-03-28T20:58:00.000-06:00

Oddly enough with the recent moves of GOP chairman Tom Daxon, the legitimacy of the lottery has come in to question.
Here is an anti-lottery ad from the campaign.

Bloomberg News

2007-03-26T17:18:00.000-06:00

In today's Washington Post Michael Shear pointed toward the possibility of New York Mayor Michael Bloomberg running as an independent candidate for president in 2008. This move would radically change the landscape of 2008 presidential field. Since Bloomberg is a billionaire, he could enter the race far later than other contenders, painting himself as the true alternative. While the Washington Post speculates that he could spend up too 500 million on presidential campaign, he could spend far less and still be rather competitive. With the typical primary season shift to the base of both major parties, Bloomberg could easily capture the middle 60% of Americans who don't view them self as either liberal or conservative. Just like Perot was in 1992, Bloomberg could be a viable alternative to the major party candidates, also he is more appealing because he does not have some of the odd mannerisms that Ross 'The Boss' Perot did. Bloomberg also has real world experience in business and government; governing a city more than twice the size of Oklahoma. While Bloomberg probably won't run it would be interesting to have a viable third option.

Boxer puts Inhofe in his place.

2007-03-21T16:11:00.000-06:00

"Elections have consequences, so I make the rules." said Sen. Boxer while holding up her gavel to remind James Inhofe that he is now in the minority. This came about after Inhofe had tried to take control of the committee hearing on global warming, one of Inhofe's favorite subjects. In reality all he was really trying to due is undermine Gore's stance by binding Gore as a hypocrite. He asked exactly what Gore's documentary asked,"Are you ready to change the way you live?", Inhofe did this in reaction to findings that Gore's home used far more energy than the average American. What this really did to show was the weakness of the Oklahoma Congressional delegation; by aligning with primarily one party Oklahoma loses out big.

Oklahoma Senate Republicans vote aginst Economic Development

2007-02-21T18:59:00.000-06:00

Yes that is exactly what happened in the Senate Appropriations Committee as the Republicans voted against moving Oklahoma forward and decided that the status quo is just fine. Education is necessary for economic development, why else are the 'tax burdened' states of New Jersey, Washington, New York, California experiencing such rapid economic growth. The answer: the education level of those states far exceed that of Oklahoma's education. Here is something to ponder, often people will talk about how great the suburban schools are, well they are no places of excellence. None of Oklahoma's suburban schools rank in the top 250 high schools according to Newsweek, maybe that is a sign of palaces built for athletics like Tulsa Union's college arena quality multipurpose center. Anyways it is proven the earlier that children attend the better off they are to compete in a global marketplace. So by not investing in the future we are helping to ensure that Oklahoma's next hundred years, Oklahoma will follow instead of lead. The odd thing is that the coasts were just taking note of Oklahoma's progress and talking about business investment as a result, but we wouldn't want good paying jobs anyways!

Iraq Resolution

2007-02-16T16:11:00.000-06:00

Dan Boren the Oklahoma delegation's lone democrat was the only Oklahoma Representative to vote for resolution disapproving of the decision of the president to deploy more than 20,000 additional combat troops to Iraq. The vote was 246-182, with 6 not voting. 229 Democrats and 17 Republicans supported the resolution.

While many conservatives viewed the non-binding resolution as a political maneuver, it did have some merits. First and foremost, is that is reestablishes the power of the legislative branch in policy making decisions. In a purely policy sense, trying a similar strategy as previous failures just doesn't make sense.

It seems likely that funding restrictions are next, this will really test the political will of politicians. An idea has been put out that would require benchmarks to be met to ensure funding. I think that this is a good idea; just because it is a war doesn't mean that the government shouldn't be held accountable for their spending. That is what I find most bothering is that reckless war spending that doesn't help our mission in Iraq is allowed to continue with little oversight. As a result of this out of control spending, the other programs in the federal government have been cut. The programs that worry me the most are within the Justice Department, until recent spending cuts, crime was down across the board. Now community policing (a highly successful crime prevention program) and other crime fighting programs have been cut. Several years of year progress could be reversed, I don't want this to be the America our troops come home to. Unless we reduce our spending on Iraq, our country is headed for dire times. Another area of Iraq spending is that government spending on Iraq does not have the same multiplier effect on our economy as domestic based spending, this will become very evident during a recession. It's time we get our financial house in order, because what we do today will have long term consequences.

Moving Oklahoma's Primary Date?

2007-02-07T23:01:00.000-06:00

Right now it seems like there is to much of a rush to front load the presidential primary contest. Efforts are being made in a bill authored by Rep. Trebor Worthen (R-OKC) to move the date of the primary from Tuesday Feb. 5th to Saturday Feb. 2nd. The idea seems like a good one because it will garner the state more attention from Presidential candidates. Oklahoma and South Carolina would be the same day on the Republican side, and the sooner state would be the only contest on the democratic side.

However on the democratic side this creates quite a problem because the Democratic National Committee passed a rule that will take away any delegates from a candidate who campaigns in a state (other than IA,NH,NV, and SC) that holds it's primary before Feb. 5th. So for democratic attention, it could serve as a deterrent rather than a impetus to campaign in Oklahoma. Ironically Chairman Howard Dean would be forcing the candidates not to take part in his '50 State Strategy' Right now it appears as if there would be no drawbacks on the Republican side.

It is unclear if lawmakers would opt for a Republican primary on the 2nd, and Democratic primary on the 5th. However that solution would double the costs.

What the nation thinks of Oklahoma.

2007-02-06T16:31:00.000-06:00

Recently the State Chamber commissioned the pollster John Zogby to conduct a poll on the status of Oklahoma among non residents. The news overall is pretty good.

What is your overall view of the state of Oklahoma – very favorable, somewhat favorable, somewhat unfavorable, or very unfavorable or are you not familiar enough to form an opinion?
Very favorable 13%
Somewhat favorable 34
Total Favorable 47%
Somewhat unfavorable 14%
Very unfavorable 3 %
Total Unfavorable 17%
Not familiar 31%
Not sure 6 %

However what is troubling is that 31 percent of people don't know enough about Oklahoma to have an opinion. This is a clear indicator, that Oklahomans should use our Centennial year to promote our state better.

What is the first thing that comes to mind when you hear the word Oklahoma?
Broadway musical “Oklahoma” 25%
1995 Oklahoma City federal building bombing 24%
Oil, natural gas wells 6%
Oklahoma college football 5%
Native Americans, “Trail of Tears”, casinos, related issues 4%
Plains, prairies, flat land, grasslands, wide open spaces 3%
Home, family and/or friends live there 3%
A state, near Texas, near Nebraska, Midwest, west or south of me 3%
Rednecks, backwards, uneducated hicks, trailer trash 2%
Dustbowl, depression, “The Grapes of Wrath” by John Steinbeck 2%
Wind, red dirt, dry, hot, desolate, tumbleweeds 2%
Cowboys, ranches, cattle, steaks, rodeos, horse shows 2%
Tornado, “Tornado Alley”, “twisters” movie 2%

The volunteered response show an accurate reflection of what people think of the state. Only 6% provided truly negative views of the state. The people with the response 'Rednecks, backwards, uneducated hicks, trailer trash' was the most troubling in the survey. Also something that caught my attention was lack of response in the area of weather, even though Oklahoma's economic future is highly dependent on weather.

First 2008 Primary Poll

2007-02-05T18:02:00.000-06:00

No surprises as far as the front runners. McCain and Clinton just have a better name identification.
I would be surprised if Clinton is able to finish 2nd in Oklahoma. In the first poll so far Clinton garnered 28% of democrats; Edwards 23%, Obama 14%. The problem with the poll was that it included Al Gore and John Kerry, who combined received 12% of democratic support; even though they won't run. Also the poll was taken right after Obama's announcement and in the middle of Hillary's announcement. Under those circumstances Obama and Clinton should have had higher numbers; meaning that this poll bodes well for Edwards who was out of the spotlight.
On the republican side, it is just as useless. Leave it to the Tulsa World to insert Rice, who is considered a serious presidential candidate by almost no one. The GOP numbers are McCain 25%, Giuliani 17, Rice 16%, Gingrich 13%.

Lammon's Legislation: Real Ethics Reform

2007-01-31T20:31:00.000-06:00

Representative Lucky Lammons (D-Tulsa) proposed law H.B. 1436 would be a breath of fresh air. The the law would allow a more open and clear government. If leaders are serious about government accountability it should start with legislators first. House Bill 1436 would restrict donations during the legislative session. This would eliminate the sketchy contributions of lobbist trying to get their bills passed during the session. It would send a message to all Oklahomans that the legislature is committed to fair and open government.

Crazy Picks for 2008

2007-01-21T18:00:00.000-06:00

-Joe Lieberman wins the nomination... the republican nomination that is.
-Hillary Clinton becomes the 44th male president of the United States.
-Tom Coburn is the Vice President nominee for the republicans but is left off the ticket due to a hold he placed on himself.
-Frank Keating talks himself up for more positions but then it is reveled that he received 2.5 million from Dryfus.
-SNL repeats the 'Real World' spoof with Kansas Senator Sam Brownback instead of Bob Dole; "Nobody messes with Bob Dole's Chair".
-Chesapeake and Devon pull an 'Enron'.
-Joe Biden comes out of the closet, reveals that he is a Dapper Dan man!
-Bill Richardson makes more appearances on Univision than all English news media outlets combined.

The Primary Schedule

2007-01-18T14:21:00.000-06:00

January 14, 2008 - Iowa
January 19, 2008 - Nevada
January 22, 2008 - New Hampshire
January 29, 2008 - South Carolina
February 5, 2008 - Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Delaware, Missouri, New Jersey, New Mexico, North Carolina, Oklahoma,Utah
February 12, 2008 - District of Columbia, Tennessee, Virginia
February 19, 2008 - Wisconsin
February 26, 2008 - Hawaii, Idaho

Clearly the schedule will lean toward a more conservative nominee out of both parties. Of the early voting states 14 are red states and 6 are blue states. These are not states where Clinton or Obama are a natural fit. The schedule seem to favor Edwards in the democratic primary. The reason I feel Senator Brownback has a chance to take off is the conservative slant of these early states; although this is McCain's race to lose at this point.

Good News for Oklahoma, while we won't be the only state, there are nine others on the same week, we are nearby many of the other states so stops won't be out of the question. The group of states is not far off that of the group in 2004 when Kerry and Edwards visited, and Clark set up his base of operations in Oklahoma.

Presidental Primaries taking shape.

2007-01-18T13:55:00.000-06:00

The over hyped announcement by Barack Obama brought the attention of many to the 2008 primaries. Now here is a list of who is in and who is a contender.

Official Candidates BOLD=Contender
GOP
US Senator Sam Brownback (R-Kansas)
Former Governor Jim Gilmore (R-Virginia)
Former New York City Mayor Rudolph Giuliani (R-New York)
Congressman Duncan Hunter (R-California)
US Senator John McCain (R-Arizona)
Congressman Ron Paul (R-Texas)
Former Governor Mitt Romney (R-Massachusetts)
Congressman Tom Tancredo (R-Colorado)
Former Governor Tommy Thompson (R-Wisconsin)

Democrats

US Senator Joe Biden (D-Delaware)
US Senator Chris Dodd (D-Connecitcut)
Former US Senator John Edwards (D-North Carolina)
Former Alaska US Senator Mike Gravel (D-Virginia)
Congressman Dennis Kucinich (D-Ohio)
US Senator Barack Obama (D-Illinois)
Governor Bill Richardson (D-New Mexico)
Governor Tom Vilsack (D-Iowa)

Unofficial Candidates

GOP
Former US House Speaker Newt Gingrich (R-Georgia)
Former Governor Mike Huckabee (R-Arkansas)

Democrats
US Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-New York)

The next step for Brad Henry?

2006-12-26T19:06:00.000-06:00

Recently Governor Brad Henry has said in interviews how he would not like to run for the United States Senate in 2008. He even has gone so far as saying he doesn't see himself in Washington, D.C. in the future. That takes him out of the House of Representatives (Which would of been a step down anyways), the Senate (Probably had a good chance at beating Coburn), and the Vice-Presidency (Perfect folksy balance for aloof Obama and Clinton).

So whats next after winning the Governors race by one of the largest margins ever?

1) Oklahoma's first First Gentleman; Kim Henry is a great speaker, and rather smart. However this seems odd, and I am not sure how well this idea would be received. Odds 1: 10,000.

2) Federal Judge, could take his cousin, Robert Henry's spot on the Tenth Circuit. Odds 1: 250.

3) How much longer will David Boren remain as president of the University of Oklahoma. Being President of OU just makes sense as something after being Governor. He has proven he can raise lots of money. He also put education as his focus of his public service. Since Boren won't hang around much longer than 2010, this move makes sense, plus it is prestigious. Odds 1: 25.

4)Goes back to Shawnee and takes up law practice. Seems likely. Odds 1: 24.

Keating for President!

2006-12-25T22:13:00.000-06:00

I think Frank Keating should run for President. Based on the results of his relatives: his brother Dan, lost to Howard Barnett in Treasurer's race primary and, his son Chip, lost to David Dank in a house seat runoff. Frank will take that track record of success and add entertainment with his many gaffes. If you think about Presidential candidates the first thing is that they can not have a clean record; that eliminates John McCain. Keating publicly stated that the gifts from Dreyfus were legal, that's a Washington answer. Frank spent a lot of time in Washington in the bureaucracy in Treasury, Housing and Urban Development, and Justice Departments. Frank Keating is ready for prime time!

"Tulsans are stupid!"

Democrats in 2008

2006-12-18T21:46:00.000-06:00

Oklahoma unlike in 2004, will not play a large role in selecting our president. I would like to point out that Oklahoma showed it's smarts. We were the only state to put John 'i am more boring than watching 48 straight of c-span' Kerry in third place where he belonged. We also voted against Bush by the largest margin 10% of Oklahoma Republicans voted for Bill Wyatt.

On the democratic side things are heating up fast. Already, two second-tier candidates have dropped out, Mark Warner and Evan Bayh. This leaves us with the main event or so called top-tier candidates they are Obama, Clinton, and Edwards.

Obama? or is it Osama? his name is -2 percentage point from the start, to many good negative ads can be made by his name alone. Then come the cold hard truth he is very LIBERAL. Obama will hurt democrats chances in holding Senate. A state senator told me that they want to run with somebody who Oklahomans at least are not polarized against, that list also includes Clinton. Obama is unexperienced; on gaffe and the whole show is over, his campaign is a house of cards since it is all about his image.

Clinton, okay first she is not Bill. She has negatives at 40% that is a horrible baseline to start from. Again please help grow the democratic party if your a democrat, don't just pick a polarizing figure.

Edwards, okay so he is charismatic, has held a job outside politics, and is pretty good looking. His big issue is fighting poverty, he grew up in a shack in South Carolina. He has the story, and is a good campaigner, plus he wont alienate Oklahomans at the ballot box. Not to mention of the first four states Iowa(he currently leads in polling), Nevada(big labor backing there), New Hampshire(3rd place finish likely), and South Carolina(home state what more is there).

Vote: Best State Senate ad

2006-11-15T23:00:00.000-06:00

Mark Wofford "Mary Easley Moved Away"

Tom Ivester

John Mark Young "Strength and Leadership"

Mary Easley "Our Values"

Ami Shaffer "Is that all?"

Sean Burrage "Healthcare"

Vote Now

Vote on the best ads of 2006

2006-11-15T22:43:00.000-06:00

Oklahoma Insight wants to know what you think are the best ads of 2006. The categories are:
Best Overall
Best Attack Ad
Worst Production Quality
Least Effective
Best State Senate Ad

Brenda Reneau can sleep in

2006-11-08T23:33:00.000-06:00

Too bad Todd Hiett sold the cows.

2006-11-08T23:26:00.000-06:00

Hiett Campaign Expenses $2 million

Askins Campaign Expenses $1.5 million

Todd Hiett having to pay back a $200,000 personal loan for ads that did not work...

priceless.

My Picks to win

2006-11-07T16:48:00.000-06:00

Gov: Henry look for Nigh 1982 like numbers
Lt. Gov: Askins (a close one 1-5pts)
Treasurer: Meacham (he neturalized the Barnett blackboard attack)
Auditor: McMaham (best jingle: mcmahan can, so i'm a mcmahan fan; henry's name on top is the difference; less than 2,500 vote margin)
Insurance: Holland (squeaky clean, duh)
AG: Edmondson (3 reasons: tough, effective, strong)
Corp: Bob Anthony

Senate: Dems keep control 25-23 dems hold 2,16,18,24,26,32

House: GOP control

Jari Askins fights for gun owners rights

2006-11-04T22:58:00.000-06:00

In a misleading attack ad Hiett claims Jari Askins voted against conceal and carry legislation. The truth: the legislation was anti-gun. It did not allow the transporting of loaded guns in vehicles, so in effect it made conceal and carry still illegal. So Jari Askins carried a new law next session that allowed transporting loaded guns in vehicles so Oklahomans could really conceal and carry guns to protect themselves. Jari Askins doesn't try to lie to Oklahomans with tricky laws; instead she is fighting for good government for all Oklahomans. That's why the NRA has rated Jari Askins performance on our 2nd Amendment rights as an 'A'.

She more truth about Jari's record by clicking here.

KFOR Poll Henry, Askins lead, Lt. Gov race close

2006-11-04T22:57:00.000-06:00

Governor
29% Istook (R)
65% Henry (D)
3% Other
3% Undecided

Lt. Governor
44% Hiett (R)
48% Askins (D)
3% Million
5% Undecided

Henry Endorses Jari Askins

2006-11-03T17:57:00.000-06:00

In Jari's latest ad she is positive showing how Governor Brad Henry supports her. This message is a good final ad because voters want a positive message to decide to vote for a candidate not a baseless attack.
Gov. Henry Endorses Jari Askins

To read the truth about Jari's record click here.

Governors Debate aka pep rally

2006-11-03T00:24:00.000-06:00

The crowd was screaming and yelling, but this was no athletic event, rather a dignified political debate. The governors debate was full of people screaming rude and crude things. "You are dumb, Brad you don't know anything!" "Get him Ernest!" "That ***hole needs to shut up!" "BOOOOOOO!" I was ashamed that the people held them self in this manner. The rude crowd took away time from discussing issues, and helped Oklahoma look like a bunch of hicks on C-SPAN. I went to the debate expecting a lively debate on the issues, rather I was a yelling match between the supporters. I even found myself breaking up a heated argument that was headed for a fist fight.
Come on Oklahoma we can do better than that!

Mark Wofford is Wrong Again

2006-11-01T22:25:00.000-06:00

This ad responds to an attack from Mark Wofford and says Mary Easley lives in the district, endorsed by the NRA, and wrote an anti-illegal immigration law.
"Wrong Again"

Here is the attack ad that prompted the response

Jari's Record

2006-11-01T18:38:00.000-06:00

Jari is tough on crime
-Oklahoma Fraternal Order of Police has endorsed Jari Askins as the best candidate for fighting crime.
- A former Assistant District Attorney in Stephens county (where Jari was a special judge) said that she gave though sentences to criminals and was a fair and honest judge.
- "When I do vote to release someone, I can say I would feel safe with that person moving in next door to me." Jari Askins said on March 31, 1991 while serving on the parole board.

Jari is for gun owner rights
- Has an 'A' rating from the NRA. NRA has not endorsed either candidate and gives both the same grade.

Jari has pro-growth experience
- She knows what business need to succeed, Jari's family business, an abstract company, allows her a business perspective that no other candidate can offer.

Jari supports traditional marriage
-She voted for the gay marriage ban
-Asked about gay marriage, Askins said, "My religion believes that marriage is between a man and a woman, but my religion also ... teaches me to treat other people the way that I want to be treated and to show tolerance." -The Oklahoman

Jari supports tax cuts
- She voted to end the death tax.

Jari protects the life of the unborn
-Voted to change the definition of homicide to include the life of a fetus.
-Voted for parental written consent for minors.

First Ad in Spanish

2006-11-01T17:51:00.000-06:00

In an odd move Dr. Hunter has released a new ad that has both Spainish and English versions. What I find odd is that Dr. Hunter still speaks in English in the Spainish version.

Dr. Hunter's 2nd Ad

Dr. Hunter's 2nd Ad Spainish

The latest Survey USA poll shows Fallin far out front:
OK-5
59% Fallin (R)
37% Hunter (D)
2% Woodson (I)
1% Undecided

Oklahoma Poll: Askins, Holland, McMahan lead

2006-10-31T22:17:00.000-06:00

Lt. Governor
Askins 49%
Hiett 38%
Million 2%
Undecided 10%

Insurance Commissioner
Holland 43%
Case 33%
Undecided 24%

Auditor
McMahan 42%
Jones 34%
Undecided 25%

Todd Hiett breaking our laws?

2006-10-31T19:03:00.000-06:00

I find it hard to believe that the Hiett campaign has permission to use such a close likeness to ET. Copyright infringement is theft. You can see the ads in this kotv story

State Superintendent of Public Instruction

2006-10-31T16:54:00.000-06:00

Sandy Garrett

or

Bill Crozier

John Sullivan

2006-10-31T16:49:00.000-06:00

Q: Which member of the Oklahoma delegation holds the honor of the most arrests?
A: John Sullivan.

Working 365 days a year? That's K street for you. Congress met about 100 days last year.

Todd Hiett: No Morals

2006-10-30T22:47:00.000-06:00

Todd Hiett's most recent attacks are horrible, they are straight out lies! Todd Hiett is not a believer in Oklahoma Values if he is not truthful to Oklahomans. Todd Hiett should be ashamed! Todd Hiett, these kind of personal attacks are not very Christian of you. In his latest ad he features her service on the pardon and parole board; and ignores the facts. Oklahomans can't tolerate some one like Todd Hiett and his disrespect for our values.

“When I do vote to release someone, I can say I would feel safe with that person moving in next door to me,” Jari Askins said in a March 31, 1991, Tulsa World story about her reputation as the most conservative member of the parole board.

One of Todd Hiett's false ad notice he sites no source in the ads because there is no source because it is a lie!

Jeff McMahan "Thanks Mom!"

2006-10-30T20:51:00.000-06:00

In a different kind of ad McMahan uses his mother to stand out!

Istook "I'm desperate"

2006-10-30T20:39:00.000-06:00

Thinking that he is running in the year 2004, Istook has shown his true colors: unchristian like campaigning in this ad:

Istook "I'm desperate"

Also
KOTV does a Truth Test on Lt. Governor ads

Maybe the aliens Ernest is talking about are at his HQ!

2006-10-30T00:01:00.000-06:00

"We find your polling only slightly more credible than a Ouija board."

-Derek Kern of the Istook campaign

Tulsa World / KOTV Oklahoma Poll
Istook 24.7 Henry 68.4

Maybe the Istook people should realize they don't have a campaign, and just concide now; all they can do now is bring down the republican ticket. Well Crozier can still do that; I wonder what Crozier will get my call now is 29.86%. Funny how when Tom Daxon is head of the party the governor campaign is very Daxon like! (Daxon did not win a single county - not even Washington the #1 republican stronghold.)

Bill Wortman for Congress. Best ad of 2006!

2006-10-28T23:26:00.000-06:00

In what appears to be a rip off of a Vernon Robinson ad. This ad by Wortman is crazy! I love it though!

Bill Wortman "Twilight Zone"

Tulsa World Oklahoma Poll: First Look

2006-10-28T23:16:00.000-06:00

Tulsa World / KOTV Oklahoma Poll

Governor
Brad Henry 68%
Istook 25%

Governor Approval Ratings
Approve 80%
Disapprove 14%
Don't Know 6%

Wow! These are the lowest I have seen Istook ever. A 43 point spread. 80% approval rating. The drive for 45 seems to be out of reach for Istook.

SD-18 Tom Ivester

2006-10-28T22:54:00.003-06:00

A recent poll by the Tulsa World showed Ivester way out front

SD-26: Ivester-D 56.5 Russ-R 31.5 Undecided 12 - Soonerpoll.com

his latest ad features Governor Brad Henry.

Gary Jones: Low Blow, takes video out of context

2006-10-28T22:44:00.000-06:00

Gary Jones "Jeff Can't Count"

From The McCarville Report Online

UPDATE: Gary Jones told KTOK radio talk show host Gwin Faulconer Lippert Sunday night that the videotape of Jeff McMahan was taken during a Christmas party hosted by Oklahoma abstractor Steve Phipps. He said McMahan was hypnotized as part of the evening's entertainment. He said he was given the videotape by an anonymous source.

McMahan Can!

2006-10-27T20:02:00.000-06:00

McMahan's Latest ad

The Truth About Gary Jones Website

Democrats ahead in key Senate Races Poll

2006-10-27T15:42:00.000-06:00

The Oklahoma Poll Sponsored by the Tulsa World showed that Democrats were leading 5 vital State Senate districts: 2, 12, 16, 18, and 26. One district 40 the democrat is down but the district is heavily republican. With lots of outside money being poured in from both sides anything can happen.

SD-2
Burrage-D 48.7 Shaffer-R 39.1 Undecided 12.2

SD-12
Bingman-R 38.7 Young-D 46.7 Undecided 14.6

SD-16
Sparks-D 51.1 Davis-R 34.2 Undecided 14

SD-18
Wofford-R 37.6 Easley-D 49.5 Undecided 12.9

SD-26
Ivester-D 56.5 Russ-R 31.5 Undecided 12

SD-40
Branan-R 47.3 Potts-D 37 Undecided 15.7

Howard Barnett wants ads pulled

2006-10-27T15:28:00.000-06:00

“Put simply, these ads are not distortions or even manipulations of the facts. They are total misrepresentations of the truth,” Barnett said.

Judge for yourself.

Scott Meacham "Mess"

Scott Meacham "Start Over"

Jari Askins Answers Todd Hiett's Attacks

2006-10-27T15:07:00.000-06:00

Recently the Lt. Governor's race has caught fire. Jari uses her advantage in this race in this ad; it's not nice to be mean to a girl. Jari's frankness in this ad will work well to communicate with others. Hiett down in one poll by as much as 10 points has decided to use the term liberal to describe Jari Askins. Askins also has an ad out that highlights Todd Hiett's involvement in the 'Pay to Play' scandal. The tag line of the ad is "Did Todd Hiett put state government up for sale?"
Jari Askins "Truth"

More State Senate Ads!

2006-10-26T20:03:00.000-06:00

Daisy Lawler State Senate District 24

Pat Potts State Senate District 40

Brad Henry "First in the Nation"

2006-10-25T22:50:00.000-06:00

Brad Henry "First in the Nation"

Hiett doesn't support Istook

2006-10-25T22:31:00.000-06:00

In tonight's Lt. Governor debate a question was asked of Todd Hiett, "Who will you vote for Governor?" Hiett did not give an real answer instead he tried to avoid it. One thing is clear he is not willing to show his support for Istook publicly yet he won't say he supports Henry either. Todd Hiett is just another politican, he tries to use Henry but won't say he supports him, make up your mind Todd Hiett.

Oklahoma State Treasurer

2006-10-25T22:25:00.000-06:00

State Treasurer ads.

The race for state treasurer is well funded, as the name implies.
Both sides have come out attacking each other.

Scott Meacham "Banker"

Scott Meacham "Turn"

Howard Barnett "Meacham Math"

Notice that 221-89 is 132 not 131 like the ad says, so I guess there is Barnett Math as well.

Dr. Hunter's first ad

2006-10-24T21:33:00.000-06:00

Dr. Hunter's first television ad highlights moral values.

Tom Cole

2006-10-24T17:52:00.000-06:00

Here is Tom Cole's ad for 2006.

10/24 KFOR Governor / Lt. Governor Poll

2006-10-24T17:29:00.000-06:00

In the most recent Survey USA poll sponsored by KFOR Channel 4 in Oklahoma City Brad Henry and Jari Askins are leading.

Governor
Brad Henry 64%
Ernest Istook 32%
Other 2%
Undecided 2%

Lt. Governor
Jari Askins 52%
Todd Hiett 42%
E.Z. Million 2%
Undecided 3%

Poll Analysis
The Governor poll does not make sense. How is there an other option if you can not write-in a candidate in Oklahoma and only Istook and Henry are on the ballot. The poll sampling time period reflects when both candidates had television ads running. The numbers in support of Jari are due to her long running media campaign. The poll was taken right after the Askins ad "Can You Believe?" which criticized Todd Hiett for voting against Hiett. Since the last poll on 9/26 Askins has gained 2 points, Hiett has lost 1 point; a net gain for Jari Askins of 3 points. Maybe that is why Todd Hiett is running an ad with Jari on a monopoly board attacking her. TVPoll.com's most recent survey also showed support gaining for Askins.

A over view of the poll history Askins in blue, Hiett in red, Million in green. From http://www.ourcampaigns.com

KOTV does a Truth Test on the Lt. Governor ads.

Bob Anthony

2006-10-23T23:10:00.000-06:00

"Honored"

"On Our Side"

"For the Future"

Bold Prediction: A bald white man will win this race.

Sean Burrage on illegal immigration

2006-10-23T21:48:00.000-06:00

Also you can see Sean's opponent in State Senate District 2, Ami Shaffer in her latest ad. KOTV did a Truth Test on ads on illegal immigration.

Oklahoman Endorses Incumbents

2006-10-22T11:29:00.000-06:00

The Daily Oklahoman endorsed Drew Edmondson, Scott Meacham, Sandy Garrett, Brenda Reneau, and Kim Holland. The Kim Holland endorsement shows that the Oklahoman has not lost faith in her ability to get the job done, even after these nasty attack ads. Seems like even the conservatives at the Oklahoman editorial board don't buy the false attacks either.

State Senate Ads

2006-10-22T09:12:00.000-06:00

Randy Bass SD-32

Randy Bass SD-32

Mary Easley SD-18

John Mark Young SD-12

Kim Holland Ads

2006-10-22T08:48:00.000-06:00

Clean

Starting Line

These ads are to cheesy when you are try to show someone you are a respectable person. They just don't scream ACCOUNTABLE, that's the problem. It's not like the quality is bad, just the point of cleaning the lens is misdirected. I know you want ads to stand out but these ads stick out and that's not good.

Jari Askins: Hiett is no friend of Henry

2006-10-20T09:31:00.000-06:00

In Jari Askins latest ad it shows how Todd Hiett has fought against popular governor Brad Henry.

Bill Case ads!

2006-10-19T13:51:00.000-06:00

Bill Case is running for Insurance Commissioner against Kim Holland. Here are some of his low production costs ads.
Bill Case for Insurance Commissioner

Bill Case "Larry Gatlin"

Dunn for AG!

2006-10-19T12:51:00.000-06:00

Is he serious?

What is this ad trying to say? Maybe it says that Dunn has a snowballs chance in Hell of winning.

Drew Edmondson's TV ads

2006-10-19T12:39:00.000-06:00

Drew Edmondson, the fighter for Oklahoma values, has some new television ads. The ads underline the bold moves Drew has made to make Oklahoma better.

"Tough on Crime"

"Shelter"

"Clean Water"

"Clean Water II"

KOTV Channel 6 - Tulsa does a Truth Test on these ads.

Young People involved in politics

2006-10-19T10:48:00.000-06:00

Yesterday I read in the Tulsa World a story about a group of high school students discussing politics and having real civil debates. What supervised me is that the discussion was not lead by a teacher but by high school students. These high school students were addressing many issues that those in the political arena address. Here is a link to the story.

Todd Hiett Ad

2006-10-18T17:50:00.000-06:00

Todd Hiett has a overly dramatic music that does not fit the pictures. Funny how Todd Hiett brings up popular governor Brad Henry, even when Brad said Jari Askins is the best choice for Lt. Governor.

Istook is up on TV

2006-10-17T17:22:00.000-06:00

With just 3 weeks till the election Istook has hit the air waves with his latest ad titled "Fix Things". It continues the illegal immigration theme of the campaign.

Ernest Istook "Fix Things"

Brad Henry "Fallen"

2006-10-17T15:30:00.000-06:00

Brad Henry releases 6th ad.
The Score for general election ads now stands at Henry 6 Istook 0. Henry's latest ad talks about the piece of mind a veteran got when Brad Henry passed a law to give every national guardsmen a $250,000 life insurance policy.
Brad Henry "Fallen"

KOTV does a truth test on this ad.

KOTV looks in to shady ad that attacks Holland

2006-10-16T21:50:00.000-06:00

KOTV says that 'Just the Facts America', the group running the ads against Kim Holland is braking the law by mentioning her name on a website. Check out this news report from Channel 6 in Tulsa (A short ad will play before the story).

Jari Askins releases 2nd general election ad

2006-10-16T16:43:00.000-06:00

Jari's latest ad is positive and talks about why she is the best candidate for Lt. Governor.

State Senate Ad buys

2006-10-16T16:33:00.000-06:00

Recently a few republican state Senate candidates bought some air time. Brian Bingman is having 15 second spots piggybacking on Todd Hiett ads in the Tulsa market, so that they would not have to pay the premium for the ads. Ami Shaffer and Mark Wofford spilt 30 second air time. Wofford's ad attacks Easley while Shaffer's ad is positive. Sean Burrage has released a new ad as well. Now this brings up a good question, "Are the campaigns supposed to be independent and not collaborate?" Yes. Also if they are getting a discount by buying together, "Are the television stations giving a contribution to the campaign?" Yes.

Here is a Randy Bass ad:

Shady Group attacks Kim Holland

2006-10-15T21:59:00.000-06:00

A group whose supporters are unknown is running an ad attacking insurance commissioner Kim Holland. It seems that this will continue the legacy of nasty ads in the insurance commissioner's race (Remember the tamales ads aginst Caroll Fisher) . The group is called 'Just the Facts America' and is out of Austin, TX; yet this is their first action. Maybe this is just me but Texans should stay out of Oklahoma politics.

President 2008: Warner Drops out

2006-10-13T15:24:00.000-06:00

Presidential Primary Analysis
Even though there is a big election this fall Mark Warner's decision not to run makes a big impact on the race for President and is worthy of discussion. In Oklahoma Warner would have done well in the primary, now his supporters have to choose another candidate. Instead of there being three major candidates to the right of Clinton now there are just two, Sen. Evan Bayh and Former Sen. John Edwards. This will give them both a huge boost. Even though many thought Warner was the one candidate to beat Hillary, the likelihood of her losing just went up because now moderate democrats can focus on just two candidates Evan Bayh and John Edwards. Bayh has spent this year helping democrats get elected in the house. In fact many analysts rate IN-2, IN-8, and IN-9 as democratic gains; Bayh continues to show why he can compete in more states than other democrats.

Mary Fallin's TV ad

2006-10-11T15:59:00.000-06:00

Mary Fallin's latest ad mostly describes NCLB, so what exactly is she proposing? I feel that we need more local control of schools and curriculum not less, but Mary seems to want big government bureaucracy to destroy schools.

The most recent Survey USA Poll shows Fallin in a landslide.

Fallin (R) 62%
Hunter (D) 33%
Woodson 3%
Undecided 2%

TVPoll 10/9

2006-10-10T17:12:00.000-06:00

In the latest poll sponsored by News 9 in Oklahoma City here are the numbers...

Governor
Henry (D) 59.5%
Istook (R) 33.2%
Undecided 7.3%

Lt. Governor
Askins (D) 48%
Hiett (R) 41.3%
Million (I) 1.7%
Undecided 8.9%

Attorney General
Edmondson (D) 54.9%
Dunn (R) 30.2%
Undecided 14.9%

Treasurer
Barnett (R) 34.1%
Meacham (D) 46.8%
Undecided 19.1%

Insurance Commissioner
Case (R) 35.6%
Holland (D) 36.2%
Undecided 28.5%

State Auditor
McMahan (D) 39.5%
Jones (R) 35.4%
Undecided 25.1%

Labor Commissioner
Fields (D) 36.1%
Reneau (R) 44%
Undecided 19.9%

Corporation Commissioner
Graves (D) 39.1%
Anthony (R) 45.7%
Undecided 15.2%

Brad Henry "Brad Cares"

2006-10-10T15:21:00.000-06:00

The Henry Campaign just released their 5th general election ad. So far Istook has yet to air any ads in the general election cycle. Istook will probably be up soon thanks to the lift from the Karl Rove fundraiser. However it is too little too late for the Istook campaign, if they had Rove as the manager maybe Istook might have had a chance.

Oklahoma races lack intensity

2006-10-09T21:10:00.000-06:00

I just came back from Missouri where politics is clearly a contact sport. Is it just me or does senate candidate Claire McCaskill look like tulsa mayor Kathy Taylor, creepy.

The Senate Race there is a toss up, and they have a proposal to raise the minimum wage and stem cell research funding proposal (amendment 2) on the ballot. The races are partisan and entertaining. I saw a bill board that said "Stop Human Cloning - Vote No on 2!", then a few miles down the road I passed another billboard that read "Vote Yes on 2! Outlaw human cloning" talk about voter confusion. Some billboards read "embryos are babies". The supporters of amendment 2 even have an ad featuring Sheryl Crow

State Senate District 2

2006-10-04T16:59:00.000-06:00

In one of the closest races this year for the Senate the democratic candidate, Sean Burrage, has a clear money advantage. Burrage is using his campaign war chest to go up on tv more than a month out with two different ads. In a race like State Senate name ID from television can be a big help. What I find funny is that Burrage got on television before Istook and Hiett.

Sean Burrage "Education"

Sean Burrage "Healthcare"

Henry leads in Rasmussen poll

2006-09-29T18:16:00.000-06:00

In the latest Rasmussen Reports poll Brad Henry leads Istook 59% to 34%. 68% of Oklahomans approve of the way Henry is handling his job as Governor. This is a 4 point increase for Henry over Istook since the August Rasmussen poll.

Henry's latest ad "Oklahoma Way"

2006-09-28T21:53:00.000-06:00

Brad Henry has come out with his 4th ad in the general election while Istook has yet to hit the air. It looks like Henry will cruise to reelection unless he goes crazy. TVPoll.com showed him up 55-33. The ad features people as old as the state of Oklahoma.

Henry, Askins lead in latest polls.

2006-09-26T17:21:00.002-06:00

The most recent Survey USA poll taken 09/21 - 09/25 show both Henry and Askins in the lead.

33% Istook (R)
64% Henry (D)
3% Undecided
Margin of Error: ± 4.3%

In the governors race it looks like Istook is finished. Something telling is that Brad Henry has had three television ads up in the general election, while Istook has yet to air one. Henry is defining this race, something the challenger must do if they have a chance at winning. Henry is up 70%-25% among female voters, Istook has to target women voters if he wants to have a slight chance at winning.

43% Hiett (R)
50% Askins (D)
3% Million (I)
3% Undecided
Margin of Error: ± 4.5%

This poll shows Askins lead up from 6 points to 7 points, not much movement. However the undecideds dropped from 8% to 3% so people are making up their minds. Currently Jari Askins is the only candidate running ads on television and there have been reports that Hiett's campaign is broke. Askins must continue to get a disporpotionate amount of female voters to win, in the most recent poll she held 53%-40% advantage over Hiett among women voters.

Brad Henry's Anti-Meth Ad

2006-09-22T16:01:00.000-06:00

The Henry campaign has turned out yet another ad. So here is the score card for general election ads Brad Henry 3 Ernest Istook 0. With Henry defining this race Istooks slim chance is fading fast. The latest ad highlights the Anti-Meth law that was a national model in the fight against meth. What was important is that not only was it a good thing, the way the bill was written got things done right. Now children are not as likely to be exposed to deadly fumes from meth kitchens. This was also an example of bipartisan leadership when he mentions George Bush who has a 45% approval rating in Oklahoma. Clearly the Henry camp has decided that he has his base voters who view Bush worse than those targeted in this ad. This is the first use of Bush in a positive light all year in an ad that I have seen.

One thing to consider is Henry has not gone negative yet. This will help him because he has an image of being a nice guy. Also a positive campaign could help those down ticket like Jari Askins. It can't be helping Hiett that only Democratic media is up on the air defining the race.

Henry responds to Istook ad.

2006-09-20T20:28:00.000-06:00

In a preview of how fast Henry's team will respond this election, the Henry camp came out with this ad (scroll down to bottom of page) today that refutes the charges made by Istook's radio ad. Istook is in a heap of trouble because after all wasn't illegal immigration Istook's big issue? Istook just can't keep up with the big dogs so he better stay on the porch!

Jari on TV, Hiett broke.

2006-09-19T15:35:00.000-06:00

Well the races are starting to heat up finally. Since the Governors race won't provide much excitement, with Istook unable to fund a television ad, the Lt. Governor's race might be at center stage.

Jari Askins has a new ad out, and she is the first up in the Lt. Governor's race. The ad's main goal is to tie her to Governor Brad Henry, not a bad strategy after all with Henry's high favorable and re-elect numbers. She wants conservative and moderate Democrats to feel comfortable with her so they just stamp the rooster. This is key to her success because people don't care that much about the Lt. Governor race, if she can just say I'm with Brad it puts Hiett in a bad spot to say I'm with Ernest. Don Hoover is Askins media guy the same one who did Gary Richardson's Steve Largent "Where were you on 9/11?" ad.

Hiett is so broke he asked Askins for money. Hiett sent an e-mail out to all House members on their office e-mail. That brings up real ethical questions. Is it right to use state resources to raise money? No! This not the first time ethical questions have come up with Hiett. Hiett distributed campaign signs in state parking lots, and was questioned about the pay to play scandal. This is a pattern of strong correlation: Todd Hiett doesn't like to play by the rules!

Ernest Istook buys first ad...

2006-09-15T15:27:00.000-06:00

... radio ad that is. I think this ad shows how screwed Istook is. One issue candidates don't win. Gary Richardson talked only about turnpikes, and so far Istook can't say anything but illegal immigration.

Istook is starting to look like on of those Head On commercials

Istook On apply directly to illegal immigration, Istook On apply directly to illegal immigration, Istook On apply directly to illegal immigration. Istook On is available where every you find Washington insiders.

Just like the Head On ads I wonder if Istook On will work?

You can hear the ad here. However on the issue of illegal immigration is really moot in state government. Do you really think people will go to a state based on in state tuition? Most immigrants only care about if there are jobs available. These jobs must be provided by employers. If we prevented employers from hiring illegal immigrants we solve the problem! You are probably wondering if something was that simple why have we not done it? Well the answer is the National Republican Party! The power players of the Republican party (Corporate America) stand to gain from illegal immigration so they don't want it to stop because they make money. NO JOBS=NO ILLEGAL IMMIGRANTS!

Governor Henry's ads

2006-09-13T19:22:00.000-06:00

Henry has had these ads out a few weeks but they are not played that heavily. Still it is clear that Henry will use his large war chest to define this race. Ernest Istook has yet to hit the airwaves in the general election. I don't expect him to have an ad on the air till after October 1st. Brad Henry will likely put up another one or two ads by the time Istook goes up. The production quality of these ads are good as they play up family.

"Balanced Budget"

"This is our dad"

North of the border: Kansas

2006-09-12T21:11:00.000-06:00

"Forward"

"Paper Clips"

"Respect"

"Drivers Seat"

I find her ads interesting because even though Oklahoma and Kansas are neighbors there are huge differences. In Oklahoma the ads are slicker while in Kansas the electorate would not tolerate it. For instance the Howard Barnett ad that played well her would have bombed in Kansas. The race is getting closer up their as analysts have changed the Governor's race from likely democratic to leans democratic. Republican Jim Barnett is challenging Sebelius. In Kansas they run as a ticket with Governor and Lt. Governor. I wish it was like that in Oklahoma.