I had the opportunity to spend 20 minutes with US Rep. John Sullivan Thursday (7/02) afternoon. Like other Tulsa-area constituents, I had neither seen nor spoken to Congressman Sullivan in over a month since he admitted himself to the Betty Ford Clinic in California for treatment to alcohol addiction.

He and I had NO prearranged rules for the interview. I was recording our dialogue from the moment he walked into the room. Beginning Monday here on KRMG, listen as we playback the discussion with Sullivan. During our 20 minutes, I asked him about:

• What one thing made him realize it was time to go to rehab
• How did your wife and kids react to your rehab absence
• The rumors of DUIs which crop up during each campaign
• The impact this admission will have on his political career
• The reaction from House leadership and other members of the OK Congressional delegation
• Being absent during the Cap and Trade House vote
• What life was like in Betty Ford
• Whether there were any criminal charges or episodes that forced the rehab experience

It was the first time in many dialogues I have had with John Sullivan in which I actually felt like there was genuine human compassion behind his eyes. I felt the personal relief that he must be experiencing knowing that there is no longer a big secret to hide. He knows full well that there are Democrats and Republicans alike who are disappointed, outraged, insulted by his behavior and addiction. He is also hearing from many who are sympathetic and proud of his admission and drive to deal with it.

KRMG will air an exclusive series all week with Congressman Sullivan and you can also hear the entire interview by clicking here..