Drew Edmondson to Run for Governor in 2010

By Nathan Altadonna, News9.com

OKLAHOMA CITY -- Attorney General Drew Edmondson announced Wednesday morning he is running for governor in 2010.

Edmondson joins Lieutenant Governor Jari Askins as democrats vying to replace term-limited Governor Brad Henry.

Republicans Congresswoman Mary Fallin and State Senator Randy Brogdon also have entered the race.

At a press conference Wednesday, Edmondson decided to enter the race because he had accomplished what he set out to do as attorney general.

"I'm ready to take on larger challenges for the state as a whole so I'll be running for governor," Edmondson said.

Edmondson's 1994 victory in the attorney general's race was his first time to hold a statewide office. Previously he served three terms as Muskogee County District Attorney.

Edmondson's said his key accomplishments as attorney general were protecting crime victims and Oklahoma consumers and securing the state's tobacco settlement.

The four-term democrat said his last goal is to protect the waters of eastern Oklahoma. Edmondson sued poultry companies in the northeast part of the state, claiming they are contaminating the water supply. The suit goes to trial in September and Edmondson said he plans to completely resolve the issue before the campaign kicks into high gear in 2010.

Edmondson formed a committee and started raising funds for a 2010 race late last year, according to State Ethics Commission records.

With more than $472,000 in his campaign fund, Edmondson has raised more money than Askins or the Republican candidates. Edmondson was able to carry over funds he raised to run for attorney general.

Recent polls show Edmondson leading Askins by 4 to 8 percent in the race for the democratic nomination.

Edmondson said he thinks the economy will be the top priority for the next governor.

"We have got to grow the economy of this state and create jobs," he said.

More on News9.com
- Governor's Race Heats Up
- Learn More about the Candidates for Governor