Democrat Joe Dorman announces candidacy for OK gov

Tulsa, Okla. (AP) — Democratic state Rep. Joe Dorman has announced his candidacy for Oklahoma governor.

The Rush Springs lawmaker made the declaration Tuesday during stops in Oklahoma City at the Petroleum Club and at the Tulsa Press Club.

In an email to supporters, Dorman said, “This year’s election is about choice – a choice about the future of our great state. It’s time to come together to make Oklahoma a state that’s a great place to live for all within her borders. And we haven’t been able to do that with the current administration. If your choice is to come together then I am your candidate.”

Dorman, who described himself as a "pro-life" Oklahoma Democrat in an interview in December, acknowledged he would face an uphill battle against incumbent Republican Gov. Mary Fallin, but said he looked forward to such a challenge.

The latest campaign finance reports show Fallin had more than $1.6 million in her campaign war chest at the end of 2013 and enjoys a huge fundraising advantage over both her GOP primary challenger and potential Democratic rival.

Dorman reported receiving more than $100,000 in donations during the final quarter of 2013.

Prepared with an AP Dispatch and other sources by The Gayly.

Copyright 2014 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.

The Gayly – February 4, 2014 @ 4:15pm