Largent will seek fourth term

Friday, February 11th 2000, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

TULSA, Okla. (AP) -- Rep. Steve Largent called it a difficult decision but said Friday that he will seek a fourth term, in part because there's a chance of working with a Republican president. Largent said he doesn't like having to spend so much time away from his wife and four children.

But the 1st District Republican said he felt he has unfinished business in Congress. "I feel like we've tread water for a little bit for the last couple of years," he said. "I kind of consider myself a man of action. I want to get there and get the job done and come home."

With a narrow Republican majority in Congress and President Clinton caught up in impeachment proceedings, Congress has not been productive in recent years, he said. Social Security must still be reformed, and the tax code should be overhauled, said Largent, who made his announcement with his right arm in a brace from surgery for tennis elbow. He said he looks forward to the possibility of having a Republican in the White House.

Largent took office at the same time as Rep. Tom Coburn, who is sticking to a pledge not to seek re-election after six years. Largent, who supports term limits, said he never promised to leave office in that time period. "I have self-imposed 12-year term limits on myself," he said. Largent addressed speculation that he will make a bid for the governor's seat in 2002. He echoed earlier statements that if hedecides to stay in politics, the only race he would consider beyond Congress is the governor's race in 2002. "That's not a bridge I have to cross right now and I'm not going to," he said. "I've made a commitment to represent the 1st Congressional District and intend to seek that seat in November. But we'll see."

Largent said he has seen progress in Congress since taking office in 1994. He cited unprecedented economic expansion, restrained government growth and more local control. But "I still think there's some hills to climb," he said.