State Senator James Williamson to run for governor

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) _ State Sen. James Williamson intends to run for governor next year and will press for changes in tax policy, the tort system and worker's compensation, the Tulsa Republican said

Friday, April 15th 2005, 9:43 am

By: News On 6

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) _ State Sen. James Williamson intends to run for governor next year and will press for changes in tax policy, the tort system and worker's compensation, the Tulsa Republican said in a news release Friday.

Williamson, a former Senate minority leader who has been in the legislature for 15 years, said there hasn't been enough leadership on these issues.

``Every day we compete against other states in our region for creation and retention of jobs and businesses,'' Williamson said. ``To be competitive, Oklahoma must pass meaningful worker's compensation reform, reduce lawsuit abuse and provide an attractive tax policy.''

Williamson, an attorney and a former teacher, also said he would work to improve the education system.

``Quality education is also critical for real prosperity and better quality of life,'' he said. ``I support paying our quality teachers salaries and benefits equal to the regional average. But I also believe in focusing our resources on programs of excellence and rewarding academic improvement.''

Other Republicans who have received attention as possible candidates include J.C. Watts, the ex-congressman and former University of Oklahoma football star; Lt. Gov. Mary Fallin, House Speaker Todd Hiett and Robert J. Sullivan Jr., a Tulsa oil production company executive.

Democratic Gov. Brad Henry has said he will run for re-election to a second term.