2008 Muskogee Azalea Parade
Press Release: Faught Announces for Re-election

June 5th, 2008

An independent and bi-partisan voice in the Legislature, Rep. George Faught, R-Muskogee, announced recently that he plans to seek reelection this fall and filed his candidacy earlier this week.

"I would be honored to continue to serve the people of Muskogee and Cherokee counties as their state representative.  Working to ensure a bright future for Oklahoma is a driving force for me. At this crucial time in our state’s history, I believe that I can help bring common sense improvements to state government.  Over the past two years I’ve discovered that helping constituents find answers and solve problems has been the most rewarding part of the job.”    

Faught said he has worked hard to stay in touch with his constituents.  “Even with a very busy schedule, I’ve tried to be accessible and pay attention to the concerns of those back home in my district.”

"When at the state Capitol, special interests try to influence legislators every day.  I want to make certain that I'm listening to the people of this community, and not to the special interests.”

Faught said his first term in office was a learning experience.

"I try to be independent in my representation. I don't care if it's a Republican or a Democrat idea; I want to know if it's the right thing to do. I have often voted against the leaders of my own party, so I may not be the most popular member of the Legislature, but I know that my first commitments are to my faith and family and then to the people I represent."

Among the most important votes of the recent session Faught said he was pleased to have helped to successfully override the governor’s veto of significant pro-life legislation.  "I am proud to be the consistent voice from this area that staunchly defends pro-life issues.  Eliminating taxpayer funded abortions and requiring an ultrasound before an abortion is performed are among several measures that will safeguard the lives of future generations. Over the past two years, meaningful legislation has re-enforced Oklahoma as a strong pro-life state.”   

Faught stresses the legislature has improved it’s commitment to Oklahoma’s roads and bridges with increased funding levels, while passing the largest education budget in state history.  “Education and transportation are two key factors in attracting new jobs to Oklahoma.” Faught recognizes the importance of the state’s infrastructure coupled with an educated workforce. 

Faught also said he was pleased to see efforts to modernize government and make it more efficient for the Oklahoma taxpayers. As an original co-author of HB1804, Faught kept his promise to address the illegal immigration problem facing the state of Oklahoma. “Although, there are needed improvements to this law, I believe it is a major step in the right direction, and given time will become model legislation for the entire country.”

Faught also helped author legislation that would have made allowed the citizens to vote whether or not to make English the official language of Oklahoma. While this bill overwhelmingly passed in the House, it subsequently stalled in the Senate.  Legislation to require photo identification when voting in order to reduce voter fraud was also filed by Faught.

While not at the Capitol, Rep. Faught is a small business owner of Clean Pro, a carpet cleaning company.

Faught is the vice chairman of the Economic Development & Financial Services Committee and sits on the Tourism & Recreation, the Elderly & Long-term Care and the Health Subcommittees.

Faught, a lifelong resident of Muskogee, has been married to his wife Becky for over 25 years.  They have three children, Tyler, Jamison and Savannah.

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Letters to the Editor

Muskogee Phoenix, November 2nd, 2008

According to the latest campaign finance reports, in the last two-month period, 90 percent of Eugene Blankenship’s campaign donations have come from donors out of the Muskogee area.

This candidate running for state representative in District 14 has harped on his opponent’s “special interests,” however, the only candidate in this race to fund the majority of his campaign through money from outside of the district is Eugene Blankenship.

Fifty-four of the 74 individuals listed on the most recent report as donors to Blankenship are attorneys. And only two of those from Muskogee.

On the other hand, Rep. George Faught’s latest report shows that of the 152 listed individuals that gave to his cause over that same period, 120 (80 percent) were from the Muskogee area. Only one attorney.

Blankenship has been funded by the trial lawyers from across this state.

Faught on the other hand, has one special interest group – the people of his district!

Vote to re-elect Rep. George Faught — he will represent OUR values.

Stan Clark - Muskogee

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Muskogee Phoenix, October 31st, 2008

]I have been watching the state House District 14 race between Rep. George Faught and Eugene Blankenship. It is disheartening to see elected officials try to smear the voting record of an honorable legislator such as Faught.

There have been some ridiculous ads run by a shady groups called “Better Oklahoma Government.” These ads try to intentionally mislead the reader and misrepresent the bills or votes in question. The organization is a front for former state Rep. Wands Jo (Peltier) Stapleton of Oklahoma City. She has written several letters to the Phoenix opposing Faught.

But what could we expect from an extremist who delivered coat hangars painted red to pro-life legislators?

Recently, the state representative from Porum ran a half-page ad making false insinuations and impugning Faught’s character. Is it any surprise that folks like this would oppose a man of high moral character and strong conviction like Faught?

District 14 can be proud of its representative. He lives traditional, conservative Oklahoma values. Leaders like Faught are desperately needed at the Capitol.

Lisa Hughart - Muskogee

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Muskogee Phoenix, October 30th, 2008

I’m amazed how some people can so easily malign the character of such an honorable man as Rep. George Faught.

They try to justify their actions by claiming “It’s just politics.” No wonder people are untrusting of politicians.

Thankfully, George is a man of exemplary character who continues to campaign on the issues and his outstanding voting record, rather than stooping to shameful, deceptive tactics.  It should be obvious to us all that the good-old-boy network is working hard to defeat him.

I for one am not fooled.  it’s hard to find good people who are willing to put their life on hold in order to serve the public. When you find a gem like George Faught, you hang on to him. Don’t let baseless political mudslinging sway you.

Vote to re-elect Rep. George Faught.

Chuck Cox - Muskogee

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Muskogee Phoenix, October 28th, 2008

I recently received a flyer from District 14 candidate Eugene Blankenship regarding the Second Amendment. As a long-time member of the National Rifle Association, I read it with interest.

The right to “keep and bear arms” is a fundamental freedom guaranteed to us in the U.S. Constitution’s Bill of Rights.

What shocks me is how a politician who says, “the Second Amendment is second nature,” can support candidates and leaders of a party who strive to take our guns away. Barack Obama, Joe Biden, Nancy Pelosi and Harry Reid are on record with both statements and votes opposing our firearm freedoms.

The anti-gun Democrat leadership who control the U.S. House (Pelosi) and Senate (Reid) are confident that the Obama/Biden team will be there to sign their anti-gun legislation into law after the November elections — leaving law-abiding American gun owners stripped of their freedoms and the Constitution in tatters.

Actions speak louder than words and “a person is known by the company he keeps.”

Blankenship supports national candidates who would strip us of our freedoms. Don’t believe this double-speak.

Rep. George Faught has received the NRA endorsement along with an “A” rating. He has a proven record of supporting Second Amendment rights.

Gun ownership is responsible citizenship, enabling Americans to defend themselves, their property and communities — a right guaranteed by our founding fathers.

NRA members and liberty loving Americans: Defend your freedom. You won’t get a second chance. Defeat the Obama/Biden ticket and any candidate who supports them.

Tom J. Tinnin - Fort Gibson

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Muskogee Phoenix, October 23rd, 2008

I had the privilege of interning for Rep. George Faught during the last legislative session. During my time as an intern, I came to respect Faught as I saw him do his job with integrity and a servant’s heart.

Over the past few weeks, I have observed many false statements made about Faught’s actions at the Capitol. Since I was there, I would like to share with you what I learned about him.

Faught never took his vote lightly. When a difficult bill came up, he thoroughly educated himself on both sides of the issue and voted in a way best benefitting all of his constituents.

For example, I was present when the autism issue was discussed. I saw Faught sit in his office for hours with the parents of autistic children and listen to their concerns. Although I know him to be a compassionate person, Faught realizes tough decisions cannot be based purely on emotion, but rather on a comprehensive understanding of an issue and its far-reaching effects.

I also observed his interaction with the lobbyists.  He never allowed himself to be pressured to vote a certain way, but made decisions based on what was the right thing to do and what would most benefit all of us.

I watched as he took the time to make personal birthday calls to hundreds of his constituents, giving them a chance to talk to him about their concerns. Many of you received these calls and you helped him stay connected with his district.

I can’t tell you how much I enjoyed interning for Faught. I learned a lot about the legislative process, but I also learned another valuable lesson. There are two different kinds of legislators: those who are in office for their own promotion and those who are there to serve others. I was honored to work with one who was there to serve.

George Faught is a dedicated servant to this community, and I hope you will cast your vote for him on Nov. 4.

Janille Myers - Fort Gibson

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Muskogee Phoenix, October 12th, 2008

The Sept. 27 ad against state Rep. George Faught should have been published in the comic strip with the rest of the cartoons. In the ad, fictional characters, Louise and Tom, were discussing the car accident of their fictional friend, Walt.  Tom said Faught's bill, HB 3380, would have cut out payments for pain and suffering in cases like Walt's.  What Tom didn't explain to Louise is what "cases like Walt's" means, so please allow me to explain it to Louise and the rest of the Phoenix readers.

The case is Walt was driving his car illegally, without the state required liability coverage. Faught's bill would have limited insurance awards for uninsured motorists who are involved in accidents.

The uninsured motorist could still receive payments for medical expenses, property and lost wages, but an award for vague "pain and suffering" claims would not be allowed.

This bill passed the House 90-8, with every local representative voting for it. Unfortunately, the bill stalled in the Senate. In fact, it was never even allowed to come before the committee.

There is one thing I can agree with Tom on. Faught can start this bill all over again next year, and I sure hope he does. To quote The Oklahoman in their support of the bill, "The issue resonates with the law-abiding among us."

It is just wrong for Walt and other uninsured drivers to hit the jackpot at the expense of those of us who pay our insurance premiums. My advice to Tom and Louise, talk to your friend Walt about driving illegally or go back to the funny papers.

Melanie Grayson  -  Muskogee

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Muskogee Phoenix, September 22nd, 2008

I am proud of what George Faught has been able to do in our state House the past two years. The needs and interests of his constituents have been his primary concern in an untiring effort to serve.

George is not a career-oriented politician, but an unselfish and loyal representative of a grass root people. His record clearly shows that he does not accept, promote or endorse the policies of the powerful and influential but seeks out ways to economize.

Faught’s attitude on tax reduction is tempered by common sense. He believes in reducing taxes, but knows that it must be done responsibly. He does not want our educational and other essential services to suffer when considering reduction in spending. That is not an option for George.

Over the past two years, he has made a great effort to keep in touch with his constituents. I like that quality in a representative — making himself readily available for the questions and concerns of the people he is representing.

I have known George for some time, and what I see is a family man with a wife, Becky, and three children, Tyler, Jamison and Savannah. I also see a small-business man who can identify with issues people in business face on a daily basis and can tell you that Faught is motivated solely by the interests of others.

We have been well represented the past two years, and “By George,” we will in November.

Jerry Daly  -  Muskogee

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Muskogee Phoenix, August 8th, 2008

I consider myself a friend and supporter of state Rep. George Faught. I agree with him that we need less government in our daily lives. I appreciate his consistent votes to lower our taxes, and I am proud of his strong pro-life stance.

I also appreciate that George has a small carpet-cleaning business. I know him as a person who is honest and hard working. He’s a true citizen legislator and not a career politician.

There was a misleading article in the Muskogee Phoenix published Aug. 1 concerning fundraising, and we need to set the record straight.

My understanding is George has had more donors from inside his district than his opponent. The Phoenix apparently failed to show a full picture in their article.

Anyone who knows George knows that he is a man of integrity who cannot be bought, and there is no doubt a good ol’ boy network who wants to elect one of their own. I’m glad we’re represented by a man of character who hasn’t, as they say, gotten too big for his britches.

I’m glad we’re represented in the state House by a true citizen legislator. I’ll be voting for George Faught for state representative this November, and I encourage others to do the same.

Andy Ewing  -  Muskogee

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Responding to attacks on Grocery Tax issue

By State Rep. George Faught
Guest Column in the Muskogee Phoenix, June 15, 2008

Common sense dictates that a person listen to both sides of a story before making a judgment.

Recently, information stemming from a newspaper ad and related letters to the editor have claimed that I am against removing the sales tax on groceries. I would like to briefly address the citizens of the Muskogee area in order to clarify this misrepresentation.

The bill in question proposed eliminating the sales tax on purchases of collector coins in order to stop the double taxation of investments and to encourage coin shows to come do business in Oklahoma. The loss to the state if the sales tax was removed would be approximately $40,000 per year.

In the Legislature, often an amendment is added to a bill     for ulterior motives such as to kill the bill, to “gut” the intent of the bill, or to get legislators on record as voting a certain way — especially in an election year.

As a purely political ploy, an attempt was made to add an “unfriendly” amendment to this bill which the author felt could potentially kill his legislation. The amendment was to remove the sales tax on grocery purchases — a projected loss of revenue to the state of $320 million dollars annually.

No offsetting measure was proposed for replacing the lost revenue. In a year with a flat budget, a vote to inflict a further massive drain would have been irresponsible. There was a motion to table the amendment, which I voted yes on. I then voted yes on the original bill to exempt the sales tax for investors of rare coins.

The expected financial boost to both the local and state economy that these types of trade shows generate will more than compensate the loss of $40,000 in state revenue. On the other hand, removing the sales tax on grocery purchases will not only create a gaping $320 million hole in our state budget, but could also cripple smaller cities and towns where local grocery sales tax often provides a majority of the town’s operating revenue.

Currently, cities can’t tax items that the state doesn’t tax. These monies fund essential services such as police and fire protection as well as salaries of city employees. Therefore, when one tax is eliminated, that lost revenue must be made up somewhere else.

Shall cities raise utility rates? Increase property taxes? Inflate fees and fines?

The answers are rarely simple. Often by solving one problem, a new dilemma is created. That’s why I rely on common sense to help determine which way I vote. Although I strongly believe in reducing taxes, I realize that it must be done responsibly in order to not hurt education or other essential services. Until a reasonable way of replacing this lost revenue is found, eliminating this tax is an unwise move considering the current state economy.

Over the past two years I’ve gone to great lengths to keep in touch with my constituents. I’ve always been willing to listen to their concerns. By working together we can find a viable way to repeal this regressive tax.

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District 14 candidates disagree on Oklahoma's
immigration issues

The Oklahoman - August 8th, 2008

MUSKOGEE — A first-time Democratic challenger in state House District 14 is trying to unseat a one-term Republican who's become known for his controversial immigration policies.

Eugene Blankenship, a Democrat from Muskogee, will challenge incumbent George Faught, R-Muskogee, in the Nov. 4 general election. The district includes parts of Muskogee and Cherokee counties. Nearly 70 percent of voters are registered Democrats.

Blankenship, 30, is Muskogee County's emergency management director. He said his priorities are health care, teacher wages, public safety and alternative energy.

Faught, 46, co-authored House Bill 1804, the state's anti-illegal immigration law. He also authored a bill that would have called for a vote on making English the official language used by state government. That bill died at the end of the last legislative session.

Faught also proposed failed legislation that would have required parents to sign permission slips to allow their kids to participate in sex education classes in public schools.

Blankenship said Faught's immigration policies have hurt the economy and average people in the voting district.

Faught said illegal immigration "cheapens” legal citizenship, and stood up for his English-only bill, saying it would "encourage everyone to be able to communicate with the same language.”

Blankenship said special interests have taken over the state Capitol, and tax breaks have left the state unable to give adequate services and protection to residents. He said he would want to increase wages for state employees and give new equipment to emergency responders.

"People in Oklahoma have become invisible (to state government), and with Eugene Blankenship up in the Capitol they're going to be invaluable,” he said.

Faught favors reductions in government spending.

"It's not just businessmen, it's workers, homemakers, teachers and farmers. If you're taking less tax money out of their pockets, then they are going to use that in the way they see fit,” Faught said.

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Honesty and Integrity Matter
Rep. George Faught Receives NRA Endorsement

The National Rifle Association (NRA) recently announced its endorsement of Rep. George Faught in the House District 14 race.

"Rep. George Faught is a strong advocate for freedom and for defending the rights of Oklahoma's gun owners, hunters and sportsmen," said Chris W. Cox, Chairman of NRA-PVF. "Faught has worked to preserve the self-defense rights of law-abiding residents and also to safeguard our great hunting tradition for future generations. In his first term, Rep. George Faught has proven his steadfast commitment to preserving our Second Amendment freedoms, and because of that, he is the right choice for Oklahomans in House District 14."

“I’m honored to receive the endorsement of the NRA,” said Faught. “In a time when our fundamental freedoms are being eroded on the Federal level, we must stand up and fight for protections of the 2nd Amendment rights guaranteed us by our Founding Fathers. As an NRA member and state legislator, I will continue my steadfast defense of the rights of Oklahoma’s gun owners, hunters and sportsmen.”

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Muskogee Phoenix Endorsement: Return Faught

Rep. George Faught deserves to be re-elected to serve in the state House from District 14.

Faught has demonstrated desire to understand all sides of the issues he has faced and thoughtfulness in casting his votes the past two years whether you agree with all of those decisions or not.

Some of the issues the state faces right now regarding the budget, the economy, our infrastructure, health care, education and a multitude of other issues are very tough and complex with no easy solutions. The challenges call for legislators who can put special interests aside and make decisions with gravity and fairness.

Faught has demonstrated those qualities.

And Faught is a hard worker, a trait he obviously has gained in operating his small business.

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Faught re-elected to state House

Republican George Faught won his second term in the state House of Representatives Tuesday, this time by a bigger margin than two years ago.

He won the District 14 race against Democrat Eugene Blankenship by more than 1,400 votes. Two years ago, Faught won by 670 votes over challenger Jeff Potts.

“It seems like this race, in a lot of ways, was tougher than last time,” Faught told a group of more than 100 who had gathered at his victory party in Muskogee’s 7th and 8th Grade Center’s media center.

Faught pledged to his supporters that he will not become a professional politician but will stay in touch with his people.

“We’re still going to be who we are because that’s who we are,” he said.

While both McPeak and Faught savored their victories, both also started looking toward the next legislative session, saying it is filled with both challenges and opportunities.

Faught also said Muskogee is well positioned for the future because of its port. Oklahoma should attract new business with its natural resources and low cost of living.

He said he hopes the state Legislature will come together to address such issues as worker’s compensation reform and tort reform.

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FINAL 2008 ELECTION RESULTS
For State Representative, District No. 14

George Faught (R, Muskogee)        7,449   55.54%
Eugene Blankenship (D, Muskogee)    5,962   44.46%