OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Patrice Douglas says she'll step down as chairwoman of the Oklahoma Corporation Commission but will remain on the panel as she focuses on her congressional campaign.
Douglas said Tuesday that she'll become vice chairman of the commission, which regulates utilities, telecommunications and the oil and gas industry. Longtime Commissioner Bob Anthony will take over as chairman effective March 1.
Douglas announced last month that she wouldn't run for re-election and would instead seek the Republican nomination for the 5th Congressional District seat being vacated by U.S. Rep. James Lankford, who is running for the U.S. Senate.
Douglas tells The Oklahoman that she remains "completely committed" to serving as a commissioner but that she's stepping down from the leadership post because of the time commitment involved.