One Good Term Deserves Another

0 Comments | Insight on the News, Feb 28, 2000 | by John Elvin

After an intense time of prayer and soul searching," said Rep. J.C. Watts Jr., an Oklahoma Republican, "I am declaring my intention to run for reelection...." Watts' announcement drew a bit of hooting from the reformist element, however, due to his previously held position that he might only serve three terms. Republicans greeted the turnabout with some joy, as Watts is considered likely to hold his seat and help maintain the GOP's slim majority in the House.

Watts said he has important work to do and wants to "continue the fight" for lower taxes and protection of Social Security. In a statement he also mentioned his work for "a strong national defense" and localization of educational decisions as reasons why he'd like to stay on. "Regardless of what I said then, I will stand for reelection before the citizens of Oklahoma. I will let them judge," he told a new conference (see p. 8).