Seminole Republican says he’s resigning from Oklahoma House

OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) – Less than one month after his re-election to a state House seat in Seminole, a Republican state legislator is stepping down.

Rep. Tom Newell released a statement Friday saying he is resigning his House District 28 seat effective Dec. 31 to pursue an opportunity in the private sector.

Within the next 30 days, Gov. Mary Fallin is expected to announce the dates for a special election. State election officials say the special election will cost between $30,000 and $40,000 if it includes a primary.

Newell did not immediately return telephone messages seeking further comment.

Newell was re-elected last month with nearly 67 percent of the vote to the seat that covers Seminole County and the northern section of Pottawatomie County.