Members of Oklahoma Legislature take oaths of office
BY BARBARA HOBEROCK World Capitol Bureau
Wednesday, November 14, 2012
11/14/12 at 5:46 PM
OKLAHOMA CITY — Oklahoma Supreme Court Chief Justice Steven W. Taylor on Wednesday swore in newly elected and reelected members of the Oklahoma Legislature.
It was standing room only in both galleries as family members, campaign workers, consultants and friends watched while members of the first session of the 54th Legislature raised their right hands and swore to uphold the U.S. and Oklahoma constitutions.
“Enjoy your service,” said Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb, a former Republican senator, who presided over the Senate. “Enjoy your time. Thank you for serving the great state of Oklahoma.”
Newly elected Rep. Katie Henke, R-Tulsa, who defeated Democratic challenger Dan Arthrell to fill the seat vacated by Dan Sullivan, attended the ceremony with family members.
“It is just so exciting,” the teacher said. “It is a lot of relief and a lot of excitement. It is hard to believe I am not still campaigning.”
Rep. Jeannie McDaniel, D-Tulsa, said that after five elections, she is back.
“Welcome to the people’s House,” she said. “We hope to serve you well this year.”
Newly elected Sen. Nathan Dahm, R-Broken Arrow, brought a large delegation to see him sworn in. He said his parents were watching on the internet from a church in Romania.
His issues are elimination of the state income tax, consolidation of some administrative school positions and to oppose federal health care reform, including the creation of an insurance exchange.
Jabar Shumate, D-Tulsa, served eight years in the House before being elected to the Senate in a district previously held by Judy Eason McIntyre.
“It is like starting school all over again,” Shumate said. “I am nervous. I want to make sure I do a very good job.”
Associated Images:
Katie Henke(2nd from left) and others take the oath of office while being sworn in to the House of Representatives Wednesday. MIKE SIMONS/Tulsa World
Former Senator Judy Eson Mcintyre listens to Senator Elect Jabar Shumate's remarks shortly before he was sworn in Wednesday. MIKE SIMONS/Tulsa World
Nathan Dahm(center) takes the oath of office while being sworn into the Senate on Wednesday. MIKE SIMONS/Tulsa World
Jack Etters,12, and his sister Lily Etters pray before the swearing in of the Senate on Wednesday. The two were supporters of Rob Standridge's campaign. MIKE SIMONS/Tulsa World
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