Istook leaning toward entering race for governor

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) _ Congressman Ernest Istook says he's leaning more toward running for governor after meeting recently with about 35 Republican legislators. <br/><br/>The Warr Acres Republican also

Thursday, September 8th 2005, 8:36 am

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) _ Congressman Ernest Istook says he's leaning more toward running for governor after meeting recently with about 35 Republican legislators.

The Warr Acres Republican also has met with other GOP lawmakers, business leaders, party leaders and supporters.

He says he plans to talk to colleagues this week in Washington and plans to make a decision within a month.

Some state legislators say the 13-year congressman would give Republicans a candidate with statewide name recognition to challenge popular incumbent Governor Brad Henry. But other state Republicans say they're concerned about losing clout in Washington if Istook steps down to enter the race.

A spokesman for Henry says the governor is focusing his efforts on running the state and isn't thinking about possible political candidates in 2006.