Morrissette Withdraws From Corporation Commissioner Race

A Democratic state representative from south Oklahoma City is withdrawing as a candidate for a six-year term on the Oklahoma Corporation Commission.

Term-limited state Rep. Richard Morrissette announced his withdrawal in a statement on Wednesday, citing the death of his father in April as a contributing factor.

An attorney, Morrissette said he planned to submit a formal notice to the Oklahoma Election Board soon.

The 60-year-old native of New Hampshire is finishing his 12th and final year in the Oklahoma House. He previously served in the New Hampshire Legislature.

Once he withdraws from the race, incumbent Republican Corporation Commissioner Dana Murphy will be unopposed in her bid for a second full six-year term on the panel that regulates utilities, oil and gas and other industries.

After Morrissette announced his decision, Corporation Commissioner Dana Murphy released a statement:

"I know dropping out of a political race is a difficult decision for any candidate to make at any point during a campaign, but especially so after the loss of a loved one. I struggled with the decision to run for re-election after the death of my brother earlier this year. Those who have experienced such a loss can understand the impact it has on your daily life. 

"My prayers go out to Richard and his family as they continue to work through their grief at the loss of his father."