Published: August 14, 2008 03:46 pm            

NEW: Longtime AG 'leaning' toward governor's race

Attorney General Drew Edmondson says he's "leaning" toward launching a bid for the governor's seat in 2010.

"I am leaning more and more in that direction," Edmondson told the Tulsa World on Wednesday.

The Democrat already has raised nearly $300,000 for a 2010 re-election bid, and that money could be transferred to a governor's race.

Edmondson said that because he now holds public office, a firm decision doesn't have to be made as soon.

Gov. Brad Henry, a Democrat serving his second term, cannot run again for the office but potential candidates include two other Democrats, Lt. Gov. Jari Askins and state Treasurer Scott Meacham. U.S. Rep. Mary Fallin, a former Oklahoma lieutenant governor, has been mentioned as a possible GOP candidate.

Edmondson would be unable to retain his current position if he decides to run for governor in 2010.

He has previously said he intended to remain as attorney general at least until a pending federal lawsuit against a dozen poultry companies was settled. Edmondson noted that a trial has been scheduled for September 2009.

"That date is pretty firm," he said. "That would still be a full year before a 2010 election. I am confident that it will be resolved prior to a race."

The attorney general filed the poultry lawsuit in 2005, alleging that the companies are legally responsible for poultry waste that has damaged the Illinois River watershed.

Edmondson was elected as attorney general in 1994 and was re-elected in 1998, 2002 and 2006, winning more than 60 percent of the vote in his last two elections.

        

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