Turnout heavy for Oklahoma's general election

<br>OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) _ Voters crowded into election precincts Tuesday as Oklahomans chose a new governor, U.S. senator and other statewide officials. <br><br>The election also determined whether Republicans

Wednesday, November 6th 2002, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) _ Voters crowded into election precincts Tuesday as Oklahomans chose a new governor, U.S. senator and other statewide officials.

The election also determined whether Republicans would gain control of the state House for the first time in 80 years.

State election officials said the vote could exceed one million of Oklahoma's two million registered voters for the first time in a gubernatorial election.

State Election Board Secretary Mike Clingman said the last non-presidential election to generate that kind of voter interest was in 1994.

A light rain Tuesday morning did not dampen voter interest in McAlester. Hazel and Leo Utley walked through a misting rain to vote at the First Assembly of God Church in McAlester.

``We think its important,'' Hazel Utley said. ``After what's happened in the last two or three years, we ought to realize it more than ever, with the economy, the school systems and crime.''

Nine state questions were on the lengthy ballot including a plan to ban cockfighting. Oklahoma is one of only three states where cockfighting is legal.

``That's the main thing that got me out,'' said Larry Miller of McAlester as he entered a polling location.

The cockfighting ban was favored by Oklahoma City voters.

``Who wants that?,'' Janet Cook said of the blood sport. ``I think it's pretty disgusting.''

``I think it's just a bad image,'' said voter Gary Barton.

A close three-way race for governor also has helped draw voters to the polls.

Republican Steve Largent, Democrat Brad Henry and independent Gary Richardson are seeking to replace Republican Frank Keating as governor. Keating is barred by law from seeking a third term.

Henry, a 10-year state senator from Shawnee, took his RV tour to northeastern Oklahoma Monday in an effort to shore up his vote in the heavily Democratic area.

``I think it's too close to call right now and that just means that every vote is going to count,'' Henry said. ``So we're out here on the road talking to voters, looking them in the eye and asking for their support.''

Lydia Shirley of Oklahoma City said she voted for Henry because she likes his position on the issues.

``I like the ideas he stands for,'' Shirley said.

Barton indicated his vote for Henry was a vote against Republicans.

``With (President) Bush in office, I wouldn't vote for a Republican _ period,'' Barton said.

Largent, a former congressman and pro football star, shook hands Monday afternoon at a downtown shopping mall and the Nordam plant in Tulsa, his hometown.

``I think it's going to be close,'' Largent said. ``I think just having three people in the race creates an unusual dynamic.''

Richardson, a wealthy Tulsa attorney, spent more than $2 million of his own money on his race.

Sen. Jim Inhofe was favored to win re-election over former Democratic Gov. David Walters.

Voters were deciding a race of possible national significance in the 4th Congressional District. Democrat Darryl Roberts of Ardmore and Republican Tom Cole of Moore sought to replace Republican J.C. Watts, the No. 4 ranking member of the House. Watts also is the only black Republican House member.

Another competitive race developed in the 1st Congressional District, where the incumbent Republican, John Sullivan, tried to beat back a challenge from Doug Dodd, former school board member and broadcaster.

The gubernatorial candidates also were watching the outcome of state House races to see if they would have a majority to work with in that 101-member body.

Democrats held a 52-49 advantage in the state House last session, but Republicans have predicted a House takeover for the first time since 1922. The Senate was expected to remain in Democratic hands.

Other top races pitted Republican Lt. Gov. Mary Fallin against Democrat Laura Boyd and two independents. Democratic Attorney General Drew Edmondson faces Republican Denise Bode, who currently sits on the Corporation Commission.

Oklahomans elected a new auditor and inspector for the first time in two decades. Democrat Jeff McMahan of Tecumseh faced Republican Gary Jones of Lawton. The incumbent, Democrat Clifton Scott, is retiring.

Voters filled a spot on the Corporation Commission left vacant by the retirement of Republican Ed Apple. The candidates are Democrat Keith Butler and Republican Jeff Cloud.

Democrat Loyd Fields challenged Republican Brenda Reneau Wynn for labor commissioner and Republican Lloyd Roettger took on Democrat Sandy Garrett for state school superintendent.