Roth Challenges Opponents to Pledge of Ethics

Corporation Commissioner Jim Roth, who is seeking election next year to remain on the Oklahoma Corporation Commission, today challenged current and any possible opponents to follow the same ethical guidelines required of incumbent commissioners.

"Members of the Corporation Commission have the highest ethical standards in raising funds for political campaigns in our state," said Roth.  "I challenge any candidate for election to the Corporation Commission to follow the same high ethical standards that both Commissioner Cloud and I must follow.  The public has the right to know that all candidates honor and respect these standards of integrity."

Members of the Oklahoma Corporation Commission (OCC) may not raise campaign funds from anyone that is regulated by the OCC, until 120 days prior to the Primary Election.  That date falls on March 31, 2008 for the election next year.

"We are strictly following the guidelines set by Oklahoma Statutes," said Roth.  "We have willingly followed the law and to date returned 14 contributions from supporters of our campaign."

Roth said the contributions, ranging from $25 up to $1,000, were sent back with a letter thanking each individual for their generous support but explaining why the donations could not be accepted at this time.

"The easiest and best way for all incumbents and those wanting to challenge us to be ethical, is to ‘Just say No' to campaign contributions from those regulated by the OCC until the strike of midnight on March 31, 2008," concluded Roth.