Todd Lamb begins reelection campaign

Lt. Gov. Todd Lamb Lt. Governor Todd Lamb began his reelection campaign Thursday in Claremore which continues today in a tour including stops in Ardmore, Bartlesville, Duncan, Enid, Lawton and Ponca City.  Not that unusual for a Lt. Governor that has visited each of Oklahoma’s 77 counties at least once a year during his first term. A cheering crowd filled the Will Rogers Memorial film room in Claremore where he declared, “Our state is on the cusp of a real renaissance.  The work ethic of our people, a low-tax business environment for entrepreneurs, our Oklahoma standard of caring for our neighbors, and our God given energy resources make for an economic environment that is an example for the rest of America.”

Phil Albert After introduction by Pelco’s Phil Albert, Lamb suggested that if he was ever stuck in a foxhole under fire, he would want to be there with Phil Albert, “a leader not just in Claremore or Northeastern Oklahoma, but throughout the state.” Lamb noted other local leaders then, with a quote from Will Rogers, introduced his wife Monica.  The Rogers quote, “I’m not a real movie star; I have the same wife I started out with 28 years ago.” Lamb said he wanted to begin his announcement tour in Claremore because it was a powerful example for Oklahoma and the nation – a growing population and a growing economy.

“Private investment, entrepreneurship, how local government works and how a local community binds together to make progress for its people,” Lamb said.  “This is a very exciting time for Oklahoma.  In the last three years, in different economic quarters, Oklahoma has led the nation in net job growth.

“Out conservative values and policies are creating a stronger, more prosperous Oklahoma.  We are the envy of the nation.  Over the past 5 years, Oklahoma has consistently been ranked at the top of numerous economic categories,” Lamb continued. “Together, we have lowered our tax burden, reformed workers’ compensation laws and invested in our highway infrastructure.  But we still have work to do.  We must renew our focus on public safety – the most basic role of government.  We have to fight against job-stifling regulations of an ever encroaching federal government.  And, we cannot remain static.  Other states and nations are striving to become more economically competitive and we must –press forward.”

Lt. Gov. Lamb began his public service working in the administration of Governor Frank Keating from 1994 to 1998.  He then became a Special Agent with the United States Secret Service.  During his tenure, Lamb investigated and made numerous arrests in the areas of counterfeiting, bank fraud, threats against the President and identity theft.  In early 2001, Lamb was appointed to the national Joint Terrorism Task Force, and after the 9/11 attacks, was assigned to portions of that investigation.  Departing the Secret Service in 2002, Lamb accepted a position on the staff of U.S. Senator Don Nickles. In 2004, Lamb was elected as a State Senator to represent NW Oklahoma City and Edmond in the State Senate, rising to the position of Majority Floor Leader where his accomplishments were recognized by the National Federation of Independent Business as he was named Legislator of the Year. Lt. Gov. Lamb and his wife Monica have two children, Griffin and Lauren.  The Lambs are active members of Quail Springs Baptist Church where he serves as a church deacon.  Lt. Governor Lamb is a member of the Oklahoma Secondary Schools Athletic Association and officiates for high school football among many other civic and political organizations.

Lt. Gov. Todd and Monica Lamb at the Will Rogers Memorial statue - a copy of which resides at the U.S. Capital. Lt. Gov. Lamb joked this was as close to Washington as he every really wanted to be.

Lamb said, “As I visit with business leaders across the nation, Oklahoma is now on their radar.  We are reversing the previous distorted images and sending a message that Oklahoma is open to investment and productivity while still promoting the conservative values that bind our communities together.

“Oklahoma’s greatest asset is her people.  Our people are second to none.  In 1995 on a dreary April day, the Oklahoma Standard was set.  Neighbors help neighbors all across this state after:  fires, storms, accidents or tragedy.  Neighbors rush to help neighbors regardless of political party or where they go to church or where they live.  Neighbors indeed help neighbors in need in Oklahoma time and time again.”

Lt. Gov. Lamb closed his remarks saying, “Our Oklahoma history is unique.  Our people are very special and second to none.  Oklahoma is on the cusp of a renaissance.

"Our best days are just ahead.  I look forward to working with you for the next four years and may God bless the great State of Oklahoma.”