Published reports indicate that Rep. Gus Blackwell, a Goodwell Republican, will take over the role of speaker temporarily.

"Rep. (Gus) Blackwell will be acting speaker for right now," state Rep. Paul Wesselhoft said. "But we will have a new speaker by the time session starts. I know that Rep. Susan Winchester and Rep. John Wright are going to run and maybe someone else who's not expected."

Both Wright and Winchester sought the position four years ago. Neither House member could be reach for comment.

State Rep. Scott Martin, R-Norman, said he is hopeful the Republicans can now move forward to the state's pressing issues.

"Lance did the right thing and I'm hopeful we can move beyond this and redirect our focus to the issues facing our state," Martin said.

Martin said the resignation caught him by surprise even though he had heard "lots of talk" about the speaker's tax problems. "No one person is bigger than the process," he said.

Wesselhoft, R-Moore, said he was saddened by Cargill's resignation, but added the act was necessary.

"It's sad but necessary and I graciously accept his resignation," Wesselhoft said. "My prayers are with Lance and his wife, Amber. But I think things will be smoother now. This was an obstacle that had to be resolved. Now the pavement should be smoother."

Cargill's tax problems, he said, had been an issue for caucus members "for some time."

"Here's the bottom line," Wesselhoft said. "Most people don't relate to everything we do up here. But everyone, and I mean everyone, can relate to paying taxes. That's why it (Cargill's resignation) had to be done."

State Republican leaders agreed.

Republican State Chairman Gary Jones told an Oklahoma City radio station that Cargill's resignation was "the right thing to do."

He did the honorable thing in stepping aside, Jones said.

Cargill said House Republicans will spend the next few days working on a transition for a new speaker.

"I know there are a lot of questions about how this move will impact the upcoming session," he said. "Our caucus is working out the details and we will have more answers in the coming days."