Former Okla. Speaker of the House heading back to OKC as Secretary of State

Governor Mary Fallin announced today that former Oklahoma S[peaker of the House Chris Benge will be appointed secretary of state.

The appointment requires the confirmation of the Oklahoma Senate.

Fallin's office says Benge will begin serving on Nov. 8, 2013.

Benge takes over for Larry Parman who Fallin appointed to serve as the director of the Oklahoma Department of Commerce and on her Cabinet as secretary of commerce.

Benge (R-Tulsa) served in the Oklahoma House of Representatives from 1998 to 2010, the last two years as Speaker.

"I am extremely honored to accept Governor Fallin's invitation to fill the position of secretary of state,” Benge said. “I look forward to working with the governor and the Legislature to maintain a strong focus on promoting economic growth and opportunities for our citizens. As a lifelong Oklahoman, I am excited to be able to serve the state.”

After leaving the House, Benge worked as an adviser to Tulsa Mayor Dewey Bartlett then as senior vice president of government affairs for the Tulsa Regional Chamber.