Democrats hoping to make inroads in state delegation

(Oklahoma City-AP) -- Democrats are hoping to make gains in Oklahoma's solidly Republican Congressional delegation.

Democrat Brad Carson is hoping to win the Second District seat being given up by Republican Tom Coburn. Coburn is supporting Republican nominee Andy Ewing.

In the First District, Dan Lowe of Tulsa says he's running because of the lack of effectiveness of Republican Representative Steve Largent. Libertarian candidate Michael Clem is also on the ballot.

In the Fourth District, Republican incumbent J-C Watts is challenged by Democrat Larry Weatherford and Reform Party nominee Susan Ducey.

In the Third District, Republican Representative Wes Watkins faces Libertarian R-C Sevier White and independent Argus Yandell Junior.

Fifth District incumbent Republican Ernest Istook has three challengers. Democrat Garland McWatters, Libertarian Robert Murphy and independent Bill Maguire are all hoping to unseat Istook.