Endorsements continue to fly in the 5th District Republican runoff. Today’s came on behalf of Corporation Commissioner Patrice Douglas, who was endorsed by conservative activist Richard Engle.
Engle is President of BellWest America, co-founder of the Oklahoma Conservative Political Action Committee and Past President of the National Federation of Republican Assemblies.
“I have determined that Patrice Douglas is the best choice for Congress in the 5th District,” Richard Engle said. “And, after careful examination I have observed that Commissioner Douglas is best suited to this office because she has a well-rounded level of experience accompanied by a well-developed conservative ideology on the issues. The 5th District needs a conservative Congress member who is able to apply our ideals to the issues of greatest import to this District, that person is Patrice Douglas.”
“We simply must have someone who can take the lead in opposing federal overreach on environmental issues, who will advance issues vital to the energy industry that our economy depends on, who can lead on the repeal of Dodd/Frank as well as Obamacare, and can effectively advocate on all the issues vital to the creation and continuation of small business.”
NOTE-according to expenditure reports, Engle’s daughter works for the Douglas campaign.
I do wish the entire endorsement piece had been shown here as it brings much in context. That said, I understand the limitations of space.
The beginning of my statement was as follows:
“It is difficult when two friends are running for the same office, but after much consideration, I have determined that Patrice Douglas is the best choice for Congress in the 5th District.
And the end was:
I will also say that while it is lawful for someone who is not a resident of a District to run, I do not believe it is most expedient for us. Patrice Douglas lives in the District, was Mayor of a large city in the District and has shown an unparalleled commitment to the people of this District.
The fact that my daughter works for the Commissioner was revealed months ago. Any that know me know that I do not follow anyone on political endorsements.
Richard, with all due respect, your endorsement means very little. Your daughter is receiving paychecks from Mrs. Douglas, and has been for months before you decided to give your “endorsement”. It is a clear conflict of interests
Also, the fact that OCPAC, an organization you are heavily involved in has endorsed Col. Russell months ago just shows that you lack respect for the wishes of your members, especially after you repeatedly told everyone that you would not endorse a candidate in this race. All I see is a lack of respect and honesty.