Candidates Vying For District Attorney Job Hold Debate

Tulsa's top prosecutor is calling it quits. Tim Harris is retiring and the District Attorney's job is coming open for the first time since 1998. The three republicans vying for that job held a debate Tuesday.

The Republican candidates, no Democrat filed for this race, spoke on a number of topics, but stressed the importance of lowering crime in Tulsa County and really going after the violent offenders.

The three candidates include Brian Crain, who, for the last decade represented Tulsa in the state senate.

Another lawmaker, House Representative Fred Jordan, represents Jenks, south Tulsa and Bixby. He won that title in 2006.

Finally, Steve Kunzweiler, a face well known in Tulsa, as he is currently the chief prosecutor in the D.A.'s office.

The debate was very civil and they shared similar priorities. I asked them each their top priority if they win this race.

Crain said, "The violent crime that has been occurring in the last generation in Tulsa County and also the fact that we're looking at an onslaught of human trafficking that is coming our way and we need to be prepared for it and proactive

"It's obviously gangs, guns and kids. We have to focus on our young children and make sure that they live in an environment that is free from violence, so that's gonna be one of my specific priorities of getting into lives of these young people," Kunzweiler said.

Jordan said, "The number one goal has to be a way to figure out how reduce the crime rate in Tulsa. Right now Tulsa is ranked in the top 100 of the most dangerous cities in the country over 25,000, that's gotta change. Tulsa's a fantastic place to live, we've gotta find a way to get a handle on the crime problem."

The Republican primary is set for June 24th and if needed, a runoff will be held august 26th.