Cargill said he will now focus on the political campaigns to ensure that Republicans retain their majority in the Oklahoma House of Representatives. If that occurs, Cargill will officially assume the position as the leader of the legislative body in January 2007.

"We hope to continue moving this state forward and not return to the failed policies of the past,” Cargill said. “We have a great slate of candidates, and we're going to build an even stronger Republican majority.”

Cargill praised out-going Speaker Todd Hiett and said it will be difficult to fill the shoes of a "man who made history and brought significant change to Oklahoma in his time as the Republican leader."

"As House Republicans, we brought about the largest tax cut in state history, teacher pay raises, a new focus on roads and highways, significant health care reform and a new openness in the Legislature."

Cargill said House Republicans must now renew their majority with an even greater commitment to preparing Oklahoma for future success.

“As Speaker, I will work to move our politics beyond traditional partisan political point scoring and focus on the real-life issues facing the people of our state. We will be committed to creating a world-class educational system that ensures a great education is available not just for a privileged few but for all children.

We'll work to modernize and personalize our government functions and develop more efficient and personalized delivery of services for our citizens. We'll work in partnership with businesses to create a dynamic, competitive, low-tax, low-regulation economy that will best equip Oklahoma to compete in the 21st Century. And we'll focus on strong values with the courage to embrace new ideas in a modern world.”

At 34, Cargill stands to be one of the youngest Speakers in Oklahoma history and the nation. He would also be the first Speaker from Oklahoma County in nearly 40 years.