Muskogee County’s emergency management director announced his bid Friday to unseat District 14 Rep. George Faught, a Muskogee Republican elected to the post in 2006.

Democrat Eugene Blankenship of Muskogee said he is a reformer who represents common-sense values. Blankenship pledged to draw upon those values to restore citizens’ faith in “the legitimate role of government for serving the common good and living up to our ideals of fairness and democracy.”

Blankenship, who announced his candidacy during a campaign rally at Braggs, said he is an advocate for consumers and promised to pursue fair and balanced solutions to the challenges Oklahomans face.

“As a result of my service to Muskogee County, I know firsthand the difficulties that impact our lives daily,” Blankenship said. “Every time we flip a light switch, adjust the thermostat, pump fuel into our cars, buy a gallon of milk, or wait in an emergency room or a doctor's office we are affected by the lack of legislative leadership.”

Blankenship said other issues he believes deserve serious consideration include the development of innovative energy resources, the promotion of energy efficiency in the workplace and at home, and the advancement of energy conservation. Blankenship said he also would like to lead the fight for “real ethics reform.”

“The citizens of this great state are overlooked as lawmakers curry favor with the special interest groups that too often ignore what's best for the people of our state,” Blankenship said. “I pledge to work my hardest to make sure taxpayers get a fair shake while promoting strong commerce.”

Blankenship is a fourth-generation Oklahoman who, in addition to his county government duties, serves as director of governmental relations for Bacone College. He holds degrees from Carl Albert State College in Poteau and Bacone College. His background also includes volunteer activities with nonprofit organizations.

“I was fortunate to come from a family devoted to Oklahoma ranching and church activities,” Blankenship said. “I learned early on the importance of a strong work ethic, commitment of service to others, and an appreciation for the land and its resources.”

To accomplish this, Blankenship said he has a proven track record of leadership. He cited his ability to work with federal, state and local officials to achieve common goals during times of crises as Muskogee County's emergency management director.

Blankenship said his work as emergency management director has earned him recognition from the state Senate for his response to the 2007 ice storms. As Muskogee County's floodplain administrator, Blankenship was recognized this past year by the Oklahoma Water Resources Board.

“The 2008 election year falls at an extraordinary time in our history when I sense that many Oklahomans have lost faith in the ability of their state and federal government to perform even the most basic functions,” Blankenship said. “My campaign for accountability and common sense in the House of Representatives has only just begun, and I can already feel the energy from District 14 voters who are eager for change.”