Barton, Lucas Face Off In Stillwater

Third District Congressional nominee Sue Barton did a great job facing off with outgoing Congressman Frank Lucas at the League of Women Voters forum in Stillwater Thursday evening. Lucas had dodged three previously scheduled events, but finally found the time to show up less than a week before the election.

Lucas appeared unsure about himself on several issues. He said eminent domain was a state issue, and that he was a strong protector of private property rights. He'd obviously forgotten his legislation ten years ago to add land to the Black Kettle National Grassland and the Washita Battlefield National Historic Site near his home in Roger Mills County over the complaints of local landowners.

He also said his highest priority if re-elected would be a third attempt at a farm bill. He said his seniority put him close enough to the chairman to see the woodgrain on his gavel. Sue Barton, on the other hand, said her highest priority would be to bolster services for our fighting men and women, who are underpaid and find inadequate support when they return from active duty.

It's a shame that Frank Lucas is more interested in his own selfish bragging rights than the men and women who serve in our armed forces. Lucas talked about the "investment" Oklahomans have made in him. Well, we're not getting a very good return on our investment. It's time to move our stake and make a change!

Sue was articulate, well prepared and confident. She's been crisscrossing Oklahoma's largest congressional district for months, and I think she'll surprise some people with her support on November 7. She'll make an outstanding Congressperson for the citizens of the Third District who have been underrepresented for the past fourteen years.

Third District Democratic officers Mack Miller and Anita Norman were in attendance, along with a strong showing of support for Sue Barton. Keep up the good work!