At least two key members of the Oklahoma House are lining up votes to be the chamber's next leader, anticipating that Speaker T.W. Shannon will launch a bid for the U.S. Senate and give up the House's top post days before the opening of the 2014 session.
Several House Republicans told The Associated Press on Thursday that Rep. Mike Jackson of Enid and Jason Nelson of Oklahoma City are working to secure votes in case of a potential speaker's race.
Nelson and Jackson both confirmed to the AP they would be interested in the post if Shannon steps down.
Shannon is considering whether to run for the U.S. Senate post being vacated by Sen. Tom Coburn, although he hasn't made a formal announcement.
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