Is U.S. Rep. Mary Fallin a liberal? Incredibly, that's apparently what one of her Republican opponents in the upcoming gubernatorial primary wants Oklahomans to ask themselves.
State Sen. Randy Brogdon (R-Owasso), who is running against Fallin, has been airing an advertisement (see the above video) attacking her for making "liberal compromises." The ad may or may not be effective among Republicans, but it does symbolize just how conservative the political discourse has become in places like Oklahoma.
Remember, Fallin has the endorsement of former vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin. Here's "liberal" Mary in action:
The Brogdon/Fallin race-there are also two other Republicans running-might put some state progressives in a particular, ironic position. Fallin leads the gubernatorial candidates in recent polling and thus remains the clear front-runner. But what if Brogdon's political tactics actually worked? Wouldn't it be better if the winning Democratic candidate, who will be either Lt. Gov. Jari Askins or Attorney General Drew Edmondson, faced Brogdon instead of Fallin in the general election? Liberals for Randy?
Meanwhile, Scott Cooper published an insightful article in the Oklahoma Gazette this week that highlighted the campaign differences between Brogdon and Fallin. It also showed Brogdon's Tea Party connections. There was this gem of a quote from Brogdon: "People better be scared, because we are living in some perilous times. We are on the brink of losing our country."
The real concern should be over a conservative extremist, such as Brogdon or Fallin, actually becoming governor with Republican majorities in the House and Senate, but here amid all the anti-Obama hysteria and the political distortions of the corporate media, it increasingly seems like a distinct possibility.
This is a community blog operated since 2006 by people dedicated to promoting and restoring progressive values in Oklahoma. A courageous band of patriots, we fight right-wing tyranny in one of the reddest of red states. Do you want to help by posting here? Do you want traffic back to your blog or site? We welcome posts written by liberals and centrist to conservative Democrats and Independents. Register above and start posting. Crossposting is allowed. Questions? Contact kurt.hochenauer@gmail.com.
Be sure to check us out on Facebook and Twitter.