Common core repeal heats up primary race

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) – Oklahoma Governor Mary Fallin’s decision to set aside Common Core education standards further heats up an already-hot race for state schools superintendent.

Fallin signed a bill Thursday repealing standards set to take effect in August. Oklahoma returns to guidelines in place before 2010, but will set new ones.

Both Fallin and incumbent state superintendent Janet Barresi initially supported Common Core but changed their positions. Even before the bill was passed, Barresi drew two GOP challengers this year. Conservatives have said they fear Common Core allows too much federal influence over state schools.

Challenger Joy Hofmeister has run commericals attempting to link Barresi to Common Core and President Barack Obama. Barresi’s campaign manager said Barresi has never wavered in her support of greater standards.