Bingman says Senate GOP gains will boost jobs agenda

CapitolBeatOK Staff Report

Published: 03-Nov-2010

In a statement sent to CapitolBeatOK today (Wednesday, November 3), Assistant Majority Floor Leader Brian Bingman of Sapulpa said:

“Yesterday was truly an extraordinary day in the history of our state in many ways. Republicans fielded an outstanding slate of Senate candidates in all corners of the state, and they worked hard to convey their pro-growth message that resonated with Oklahomans across party lines.  It was truly phenomenal to pick up six seats, and we’re gratified by the response of the voters in the districts.  We had great candidates and they campaigned hard.  It really paid off, and it means we can move forward with our efforts to make Oklahoma the best state possible for all our citizens.

“With a 32-16 majority and a Republican governor, we’re in a strong position to promote an agenda that is all about creating more jobs and smaller government.  We’ll be able to pass strong pro-Oklahoma legislation to strengthen our economy and move our state forward.

“I look forward to working with our new members in service to the people of the great state of Oklahoma.”

New members of the Republican caucus in the state Senate include:

·         Mark Allen, R-Spiro, District 4.  A Navy veteran, Allen is the owner of an oil field service company.

·         Josh Brecheen, R-Coalgate, District 6.  Brecheen is a rancher and professional motivational speaker.  He is a former state FFA president and field representative for U.S. Senator Tom Coburn for southeastern Oklahoma.

·         Eddie Fields, R-Wynona, District 10. Fields is a rancher and has served one term in the Oklahoma House of Representatives.

·         Frank Simpson, R-Springer, District 14.  Simpson is a retired Navy officer.  After his naval service, he entered the construction industry overseeing large-scale commercial facilities.

·         Kim David, R-Wagoner, District 18.  David is the owner of a recreational property management company.  After working in petroleum marketing, she became a classroom teacher, eventually entering private business.

·         Rob Johnson, R-Kingfisher, District 22.  Johnson is a businessman and former State Representative.

·         David Holt, R-Oklahoma City, District 30.  Holt served as chief of staff for Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett.  He also previously worked for U.S. Speaker of the House, Dennis Hastert.

·         Rick Brinkley, R-Owasso, District 34.  Brinkley is the president of the Tulsa Better Business Bureau.  He has also served as a clergyman and a television producer.

·         Ralph Shortey, R-Oklahoma City, District 44.  Shortey has a background in the oil and gas industry.