John Moore, a 13-year Ardmore city commissioner and former three-term mayor, is seeking the District 48 seat in the Oklahoma legislature.
Moore, 55, is opposing Republican candidate Pat Ownbey, who defeated Matt Cunningham in the July Republican primary. Moore did not have an opponent in the Democratic primary. The winner will replace Republican Greg Piatt, who announced in May that he would not run for re-election.
Moore, who has worked at the Michelin North America tire plant for 37 years, is an Ardmore native. He and his wife, Joann, have two sons and a granddaughter.
“My vision is one of an attractive and exciting district where everyone feels safe and where young people can realized their personal dreams and professional aspirations without ever having to leave the area,” he said.
In addition to serving on the Ardmore City Commission, Moore is on the board of directors of the United Way of South Central Oklahoma, the Salvation Army and the Cornerstone program and serves as chair of deacons at Corinth Baptist Church.
“During my tenure as a public servant, I have worked hard to improve the quality of life for all residents and my actions are guided by three important principles,” he said. “First, I am committed to open, honest, accountable government, guided by uncompromising ethical standards. Second, I believe strongly in the value of diversity, promoting greater dialogue, understanding and inclusiveness. And third, I constantly look to the future, making decisions that will make our communities a better place to live, work and play.”
Moore said he will work to strengthen families and vulnerable neighborhoods and bring economic development opportunities to all parts of the district.
He said he will support innovative initiatives and legislation to address issues such as foster care safety and accountability, health care, mental health and veterans care and benefits. He wants to ensure continued financial support for rural fire departments and pledged to continue efforts to bring a 4-year university branch campus to Ardmore.
“If you have a safe city and good schools, you’re going to see economic development. These three things are connected,” he said. “I have a great working relationship with our school districts, city, chamber of commerce, ADA and others to continue the efforts to bring economic development to our area and to improve the quality of life for all.”
Moore said his decision to become a candidate for the Oklahoma legislature represents a natural progression in his growing commitment to build better communities throughout the district. He said the problems the state now faces cannot be solved without bipartisan cooperation. And he said the voters in District 48 are looking toward proven leaders.
“I believe the majority of the people will vote for the best person to do the job,” he said.
Steve Biehn, 221-6546
steve.biehn@ardmoreite.com
