Oklahoma congressman says he's considering run for governor

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- An Oklahoma congressman says he may throw his hat into the governor's race.<br/><br/>Republican Ernest Istook told about 90 people at a town-hall meeting Thursday night that a

Friday, August 26th 2005, 6:36 am

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- An Oklahoma congressman says he may throw his hat into the governor's race.

Republican Ernest Istook told about 90 people at a town-hall meeting Thursday night that a lot of people have asked him to consider a bid and he's going to listen to them.

Istook says he's concerned about the state's leadership, saying its creation of the lottery and allowing gaming at American Indian casinos is not the best way to improve the state's economy.

Governor Brad Henry supported those proposals, which received at least 60 percent of the vote from state residents during November's election.

Istook says the lottery and gaming are giving the state new revenue sources, but the money being made will be taken to other states by lottery operators and casino game managers.

Former Congressman JC Watts and Lieutenant Governor Mary Fallin are two Republicans who've already decided not to run for the state's highest office.

Republican state Senator Jim Williamson and Tulsa oil company executive Bob Sullivan have announced their candidacies.