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November 19, 2009

Askins warns Dems of challenges ahead

By BOB GIBBINS

Democrats across the state and nation face huge challenges in the next four years and Cherokee County’s Democrats got the message loud and clear Wednesday night.

Lt. Gov. Jari Askins, a Democrat candidate for governor, was the keynote speaker at the annual Cherokee County Democrat Roundup. Askins also took time to laud the local Democrat women’s group and Lois Ross, who was honored for her service to the Democrat party. Ross, former Mayor Sally Ross and Pat Frank received honors prior to the keynote speech. Frank received the Founders Award.

All three women received certificates from the legislature and the city of Tahlequah.

“You set such an example,” Askins said of the group. “That’s why Jim Priest is here on his first day as an official candidate.”

Priest is a candidate for Oklahoma attorney general on the Democrat ticket.

Askins said Democrats face huge challenges in the next four years.

“We need to field good candidates and elect them to office,” she said. “We need that balance in the Oklahoma legislature that’s missing now.”

She said the state needs Democrat candidates who understand how government works and that not one branch of government is more important than the other. Askins said it’s important that Democrats work together for solutions and to elect people like State Sen. Jim Wilson and State Reps. Mike Brown and John Auffet.

“Your work ripples beyond you,” Askins said. “This side of the state looks to Cherokee County to see what to do.”

Brown introduced Askins as someone uniquely qualified to serve as governor and a good friend, but stopped short of giving her an endorsement. He said Askins has served in all three branches of government and she has also served on the Pardon and Parole Board.

Bob Weeden provided musical entertainment and Wilson served as master of ceremonies for the event.

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Poll

The use of cell phones while driving is increasingly becoming an issue. What do you think about cell phone use by emergency personnel, like law enforcement officers, EMTs, firemen, etc.?

• If the law allows the common citizen to use cell phones while driving, emergency personnel should be able to also.
• Emergency personnel should be held to a higher standard. Since they are often driving faster than normal, they should not be allowed to use cell phones while driving, even if other citizens can.
• They should be allowed to use them like anyone else, but their host entities (hospitals, fire departments, cities, etc.) should carry extra insurance for this reason.
• Don't know.
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