US Senate race most expensive in state history

Friday, December 17th 2004, 10:52 am

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) _ The race to replace retiring Senator Don Nickles is the most expensive in state history, with Democrat Brad Carson and Republican Tom Coburn spending a combined $10.6-million.

A review of campaign spending reports by The Oklahoman's Washington bureau shows Coburn -- who won the election -- spent nearly $4.6-million. Meanwhile Carson set a new state record by spending $6-million on the election.

The previous high for a Senate race was in 1986, when Nickles spent $3.3-million defeating former Congressman Jim Jones, who spent $2.6-million.

Carson spent the $6-million over a year's time, while Coburn didn't enter the Senate race until March.

Outside groups spent millions more trying to influence the race.