After witnessing one of the longest campaign cycles in American history, signs show that another could be around the corner. Nationally, Gov. Sarah Palin, Gov. Mike Huckabee and Gov. Mitt Romney are hotly advocated for a Presidential run in 2012 for the Republican party. President-elect Barack Obama, of course, will likely take the Democratic nomination. Closer to home, sources say politicians are already gearing up their next run.

Gov. Brad Henry, OU ‘85, will be unable to seek office for re-election due to term limits mandated by the Oklahoma Constitution, so who will run? While not official, The Oklahoma Political News Service reports that Rep. Mary Fallin is gearing up in what could be a very contested Gubernatorial race. Lt. Gov. Jeri Askins, OU ‘75, has also been mentioned on the democratic side.

Even though Fallin has yet to announce her candidacy, other Republicans are already anticipating a run for her seat. Sources close to Dr. Johnny Roy, who attempted the fifth district spot for Congress in 2006, have exclusively told CurrentlyOK.com that he intends to run again.

Another likely candidate is Oklahoma City Mayor Mick Cornett. Cornett gained national attention in January when he announced that Oklahoma City was going on a one million pound diet.

Former Corporation Commissioner Denise Bode, who also ran for the fifth district in 2006, now lives in Washington, DC and is ineligible to run.

Courtney Landsberger, UCO '12, reaches to get a 'Dana Murphy' Oklahoma-shaped cookie at the GOP watch party Nov. 4. Photo by Hunter Ligon/CurrentlyOK

Some college students, who often play a vital role in grassroots organization, say they’re ready for the fight. Courney Landsberger, UCO ‘12, said she is ready to support any republican that chose to run.

“If Mary [Fallin] decides to run, I’m totally there,” Landsberger said. “I love her. I’ve grown up familiar with her, and I think Oklahomans feel the same way. She is Oklahoma.”

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