Election

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — Early voting begins Friday for voters casting ballots in Oklahoma's primary runoff election.

The top race is in the 2nd Congressional District, where two Republicans and two Democrats are vying for their parties' nominations. That seat is being vacated by Democratic congressman Dan Boren, who is not seeking re-election.

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — When Democratic U.S. Rep. Dan Boren surprisingly announced last year he wouldn't seek a fifth term in office, Democrats started scrambling for an ideal candidate who could hold on to the seat in the increasingly conservative district.

With a tough-on-crime resume and deep roots in the Oklahoma Democratic Party, longtime prosecutor Rob Wallace emerged as the top contender. The 49-year-old has been endorsed by arguable two of the most popular Democrats in the state — former Gov. Brad Henry and former Gov. and U.S. Sen. David Boren.

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) — The names of Democratic candidates in Oklahoma will appear above Republicans on the November ballot.

A public drawing on Thursday at the State Election Board determined that Democrats will get the top spot, followed by the Republican Party and the Americans Elect Party.

State law requires a public drawing be held every general election year to determine the ballot order. The law also requires the names of independent candidates to appear after the nominees of recognized political parties.

The republican run-off candidates for the second congressional district take part in a televised debate. It was on R-S-U TV last night at Claremore.

Markwayne Mullins says he is running for office because he is tired of federal interference in his business. George Faught, meanwhile, touted his six years experience in the state legislature.                  

Health care reform was the big issue. Faught called for the health care reform act to be repealed and replace with another plan.  Mullins wants the federal government out of health care altogether.

CLAREMORE, Okla. (AP) — The two Republicans vying for the 2nd Congressional District nomination will meet next week for a debate.

Markwayne Mullin and George Faught are scheduled to debate Monday at Rogers State University in Claremore. The event is sponsored by RSU-TV, the Claremore Daily Progress, the Claremore Chamber of Commerce and the RSU Department of Communications.

The event will be broadcast on RSU-TV and will be streamed live at www.rsupublictv.org .