Candidate Out of Area DA Race

By Associated Press

Claremore, OK – Candidate for DA in NE Okla. withdraws

CLAREMORE, Okla. (AP) A Republican candidate for district attorney in northeast Oklahoma has withdrawn from the race, ensuring Democrat Janice Steidley will win the open seat.

Republican M. Bryce Lair of Vinita submitted paperwork Tuesday to drop out of the race.

Steidley defeated Patrick Abitbol in last week's Democratic primary.

District 12 includes Rogers, Craig and Mayes counties. Current District Attorney Gene Haynes did not seek re-election.

Copyright 2010 The Associated Press.