Oklahoma Governor Calls for Resignations After Alarming Racist Remarks by County Officials

In a shocking revelation, four officials from McCurtain County, Oklahoma, are facing calls for resignation from Governor Kevin Stitt after they allegedly made racist comments and discussed violence against journalists during a clandestinely recorded meeting. The scandal raises significant concerns about accountability among elected officials and the treatment of media representatives in the region.

Why It Matters

These allegations underscore a troubling atmosphere of intimidation and hostility not only toward Black communities but also toward those who report on local issues. Such behavior from public officials could have ramifications for community trust and safety, further complicating race relations and journalistic integrity in Oklahoma.

Key Developments

• Governor Stitt has urged McCurtain County Sheriff Kevin Clardy, Commissioner Mark Jennings, investigator Alicia Manning, and jail administrator Larry Hendrix to resign immediately.
• The McCurtain Gazette-News published an audio recording said to contain conversations from a March 6 meeting, leading to the allegations.
• The sheriff’s office contends the recording was illegally obtained and claims it may have been altered.
• The Oklahoma State Bureau of Investigation has been asked to look into the matter.
• The Oklahoma Sheriffs’ Association has suspended the membership of Clardy, Manning, and Hendrix.

Full Report

Alarming Findings

During a meeting shortly after a lawsuit was filed by Gazette-News reporter Chris Willingham against the sheriff’s office, the officials reportedly engaged in conversations that included derogatory remarks about the Black community and violent threats against journalists. Details from the audio indicate that Manning expressed concern about encountering Willingham, implying violent intentions. Jennings echoed similar sentiments, remarking on a family member’s anger towards the newspaper and suggesting extreme measures.

Official Reactions

Governor Stitt expressed his disgust through a public statement, emphasizing that such hateful rhetoric should not be tolerated in Oklahoma. His call for resignations highlights the serious implications of these officials’ actions, particularly in a role that demands public accountability.

Legal and Law Enforcement Responses

The sheriff’s office stated that they are investigating possible violations of the Oklahoma Security of Communications Act, which criminalizes the secret recording of conversations without consent. They also voiced skepticism about the authenticity of the recording, claiming it may have been tampered with.

Investigations Underway

Both state and federal authorities are involved in the ongoing investigations. The Oklahoma Attorney General’s office has received the audio for examination, while the FBI has not confirmed its participation in the inquiry, adhering to standard policies regarding investigations.

Context & Previous Events

This incident follows a year of reported intimidation and harassment faced by Willingham and his family, as they attempted to report news concerning McCurtain County. These latest revelations have forced both the community and the state to confront disturbing truths about racial attitudes and the treatment of the press by those in power.

In light of the gravity of these allegations, community members and officials alike are left to grapple with the implications for governance and public trust in Oklahoma.