OKINSIDER.COM - HD96: Democrat Dianne Hunter seeks Cargill's seat

(OK) While it is still unsure whether former House Speaker Lance Cargill will seek re-election, Democrat Dianne Hunter filed paperwork Monday to make a run at his seat in House District 96.

Hunter, a long-time Edmond resident and practice administrator for the Oklahoma Ear Nose and Throat Clinic, said she hopes to bring integrity to her district and offer a change in leadership. After filing for an election bid, Hunter said that she became motivated to run after she found that Cargill, R-Harrah, had been having issues related to income and property tax filings that prompted him to step down as speaker of the House.

"It's time to put someone with integrity back in the House of Representative for the 96th District," Hunter said in a press release announcing her candidacy. "Hard working citizens of the district pay taxes for Representative Cargill's salary, and it's unacceptable for him to not pay his taxes on time. The 96th House District deserves and is ready for a change in leadership."

It is unclear whether Cargill plans to run for re-election, but regardless, Hunter said she expects a tough race in a mostly Republican district. "I'm sure it will be a tough race," said Hunter. "But I will be a tough candidate."

Hunter said she plans to work hard for middle class families in her district. Many constituents are under increasing financial pressure due to high gas prices, health care costs and a sluggish economy. Education is also a primary concern, another point on which she said she differs from the incumbent. "Representative Cargill says he wants to improve the state's education system," said Hunter. "But when he doesn't pay his property taxes on time, schools in the 96th District are hurt."

Hunter was also a key figure in her husband's congressional bid back in 2006. Dr. David Hunter ran a campaign against Republican U.S. Rep. Mary Fallin for District 5.