Both candidates for Oklahoma insurance commissioner make a similar pitch to voters: Elect me, and you’ll pay less for homeowners insurance. Despite its relatively low cost of living, Oklahoma homeowners pay some of the highest insurance premiums in the country. The industry blames severe weath er and litigation costs, but a growing number of elected officials, including Attorney General Gentner Drummond, argue corporate greed is to blame. An ongoing lawsuit alleges State Farm systematically denied or underpaid valid wind and hail damage claims to Oklahoma homeowners. With incumbent Insurance Commissioner Glen Mulready term-limited, Oklahoma voters will elect a newcomer to lead the agency on Nov. 3. Here’s a breakdown of the two candidates and their platforms, compiled through publicly available information: The Candidates: Republican Bob Sullivan, a 41-year-old insurance industry professional from Inola. Democrat Craig MacIntyre, a 60-year-old insurance industry professional from Tecumseh. Their Platforms: On his campaign website, Sullivan describes himself as “the fighter big insurance doesn’t want.” While touting his conservative credentials, he promises to investigate price gouging and ensure companies pay out claims on time. At a June candidate forum, he did not rule out the possible jail time for insurance executives who break the law. MacIntyre argues he’s the most qualified candidate for the job, highlighting his experience as an actuary, underwriter and policy writer, among other positions. He says he would give the insurance department’s consumer protection division more authority to investigate unfair claims practices and reject excessive rate hike proposals. He also wants to limit expenses that can justify a rate increase, saying that Oklahomans should not be subsidize expensive advertising campaigns or luxury corporate travel. For more information: Sullivan’s campaign Facebook MacIntyre’s campaign Facebook Note: In the weeks leading up to the Nov. 3 election, Democracy Watch from Oklahoma Watch, will preview a statewide election on the ballot. Next week’s newsletter will focus on the attorney general race. This article is republished with permission from Oklahoma Watch. The post Previewing Oklahoma’s Insurance Commissioner Race appeared first on Oklahoma Gazette. ...read more read less