For Immediate
Release: September 27, 2004
Audio Clip
Members of the Oklahoma State Senate are adjourned as a
court by
State Supreme Court Chief Justice Joseph M. Watt Monday
afternoon
following the resignation ofInsurance Commissioner Carroll
Fisher last week.
Laster Proud of Senate’s Efforts
Senate Judiciary Chairman designate
Charlie Laster said he was extremely proud of how members
conducted themselves as they prepared for Oklahoma’s
first impeachment trial since 1965.
As a result of Carroll Fisher’s resignation as State
Insurance Commissioner on Friday, the Senate met briefly
Monday to adjourn as a court and then to adjourn the special
session. Those final steps followed those administered by
the State Senate in 1975, when then Sec. of State John Rogers
resigned shortly before his impeachment trial was slated
to begin.
“From start to finish, the efforts of our members
and staff have been exceptional. While I am relieved that
our state has been spared the pain of a full-blown impeachment
trial, I’m extremely proud of the professional way
our work was done as we prepared for that responsibility,”
said Laster, D-Shawnee.
Sen. Laster also praised State Supreme Court Chief Justice
Joseph M. Watt for his work in preparation for his role
as presiding officer of the court, as well as the efforts
of the House and their Board of Managers.
“Everyone involved understood the gravity of what
was being undertaken and the importance of fulfilling our
constitutional duties. While it is unfortunate that such
actions were necessary, I believe the public can be assured
that we were well prepared to undertake whatever steps were
required to ensure that ultimately their interests prevailed,”
Laster said.
For
more information contact:
Senate Communications Office -
(405) 521-5774
