Senate:  One of those senators is up for re-election this year.  Tom Coburn, while not always the darling of establishment Republicans, is a favorite of small-government fiscal conservatives.  His conservative views on money matters put him at odds with former President George W. Bush on occasion but found harmony in this deeply-red state.  As he seeks re-election in 2010, his only potential obstacle, Governor Henry, decided early on against challenging him.  Had Henry jumped in this would have been an exciting, close race.  Without him, it'll be a cakewalk for Coburn, a true Solid GOP Hold.

Governor:  If the Democratic incumbent Henry wanted a third term and if he wasn't term-limited, it would be his.  After nearly two terms as governor, Henry remains very popular.  Alas, at least for Democratic number crunchers, he won't be able to run again.  The race for the chief executive office he leaves behind should be quite entertaining.  On the Democratic side, two heavyweights, state Attorney General Drew Edmondson and Lt. Gov. Jari Askins, are vying for the nomination.  Either would be a formidable candidate in the general election with a solid chance to retain this governorship for the Democrats.  On the other side, Republicans are not without a strong candidate themselves.  Primary front runner, Congresswoman Mary Fallin, who has also served as Oklahoma's lieutenant governor, probably gives the GOP a better chance at taking the statehouse than either Democrat has of keeping it.  That's why this race starts as a Weak GOP Gain..

Check out the Oklahoma state page for more good information.

Next stop:  Oregon



Filed under:  Oklahoma  OK Senate  OK Governor