Published: July 22, 2008 10:08 pm            

It’s time for Murphy

EDMOND — This bustling community has its fair share of extraordinary residents from all walks of life. There’s one Edmond resident in particular that we believe you should get to know during this year’s political season.

Dana Murphy is seeking the Republican nomination for the Oklahoma Corporation Commission seat currently held by Democrat Jim Roth. Roth is seeking his first elected term to this office after receiving an appointment to the position from Gov. Brad Henry.

But before Murphy can take on the task of running against Roth, she first must hurdle a tough primary election on Tuesday against Republican opponent Rep. Rob Johnson of Kingfisher.

Murphy is almost tailor-made to serve on the Corporation Commission. Unlike many candidates who have not much other than their political aspirations to recommend them for a post, Murphy has 20 years of experience working in both the energy sector and at the commission itself.

She started out as an oil field geologist and returned to school to become an attorney. She has practiced law at an Oklahoma City firm and most recently has operated her own private law practice representing mineral owners and producers. In between those practices, Murphy served as an administrative law judge at the commission for six years and has served as an expert witness in cases before the commission.

Not only does Murphy have a large amount of knowledge about both the energy industry and the Corporation Commission itself, she also has an intense passion for serving her fellow Oklahomans. Few can say they have the mission statement memorized for the most powerful regulatory body in the state.

This graduate of then-Central State University also knows Edmond and has a keen sense of what will best serve this growing community. She has made this city her home and is involved in both her church and the Edmond Republican Women.

This is Murphy’s second run for the office — her first bid in 2002 was unsuccessful. This newspaper endorsed her then as we do again this year for many of the same reasons. If anything, Murphy has spent her time since that first run for office learning about the political process, becoming involved in the Republican Party and honing her skills.

We urge readers to take a few moments to learn more about Murphy before heading to the polls on Tuesday. We’re sure that you will be as impressed with her qualifications and ideals for a better Oklahoma as we are.

        

• Click to discuss this story with other readers on our forums.