In Oklahoma, GOP Race Not a Given

[RamboLiberal]

http://www.washingtonpost.com/ac2/wp-dyn/A43048-2004Jul11?language=printer

The Republican establishment in Oklahoma had hoped to all but crown former Oklahoma City mayor Kirk Humphreys as its nominee for the Senate seat being vacated by Don Nickles (R), believing he is the best choice to keep Democratic Rep. Brad Carson at bay in this conservative state.

Sen. James M. Inhofe appeared with the former mayor at his announcement for the seat, and it wasn't long before there were television ads featuring Humphreys standing with Nickles, Inhofe and former congressman J.C. Watts.

But even the best-laid political plans can run afoul of other ambitious men who are not ready to be elbowed aside. Former congressman Tom Coburn, a conservative family physician and onetime House maverick, has proved to be a formidable opponent for Humphreys in the July 27 primary. The two are locked in a ferocious battle for the support of the right wing of the party. Further compounding Humphreys's woes is Bob Anthony, vice chairman of the Oklahoma Corporation Commission, who is unlikely to win but who is pulling support from Humphreys's Oklahoma City and western Oklahoma base.

Coburn is the darling of the religious right, a strong force in the state. His former district covers much of eastern Oklahoma and Tulsa, the state's largest city. He has received the support of the conservative Club for Growth, which has been funding family-values ads for him.

The seat -- once thought to be safely Republican -- is considered up for grabs. Recent polls show that Carson would be a strong opponent for any of the Republicans, but that he would prevail over Humphreys. The polls show a much tighter race against Coburn.

[struggle4progress]

1. Oh. How sad. eom