Graves drops out of Congressional race

By Michael McNutt
The Oklahoman

Former state Rep. Bill Graves today dropped out of the 5th Congressional District race, leaving four announced GOP candidates.


Graves, an Oklahoma City Republican, endorsed state Rep. Fred Morgan, R-Oklahoma City, for the seat being vacated by U.S. Rep. Ernest Istook, R-Warr Acres. Istook is running for governor.

Graves said he is withdrawing from the race because his campaign hasn’t generated the necessary support and money.

The latest campaign report released in January showed Graves had raised $16,000. GOP candidates Lt. Gov. Mary Fallin and Corporation Commissioner Denise Bode each had raised more than $300,000 while Morgan reported raising $151,000.

“You need to have the money to get your message out in the campaign,“ Graves said during a state Capitol news conference. “I didn’t see that coming my way.“

Morgan, who appeared with Graves, said he welcomed the endorsement of Graves.
State Rep. Kevin Calvey of Del City is the other announced GOP candidate.

Announced Democratic candidates are Oklahoma County Court Clerk Patricia Presley, Bert Smith, who was defeated by Istook in 2004, and Dr. David Hunter, an Edmond physician.

David Hunter? Really? I know that guy.....great guy....cosmetic surgeon and ENT. But, I doubt he'll put the oney into launching a for real fight against Fallin and Bode.