AG O'Connor celebrates Supreme Court limitation of 'McGirt'

State of Oklahoma Celebrates Supreme Court Limitation of McGirt

OKLAHOMA CITY - “McGirt is not retroactive. This is a major victory for the State of Oklahoma,” said Attorney General John O’Connor. 

The Oklahoma Court of Criminal Appeals unanimously made that decision in Parish v. Oklahoma. Today, the United States Supreme Court refused to consider an appeal of that decision by Parish. 

Clifton Parish was convicted of second-degree murder in the 2010 beating and shooting death of Robert Strickland in Hugo, Oklahoma. Parish sought to have the United States Supreme Court throw out his conviction, arguing that McGirt is retroactive.

His conviction is one of many convictions that will now stand, with the Supreme Court’s decision announced today.

“This is an important victory for the safety of victims, families of victims, and the people of Oklahoma,” said Attorney General O’Connor. “Victims and their families will not be required to relive their tragic experiences by testifying in new trials, or worse, seeing the perpetrators out in society."

“We are hopeful that this is the first step in having the McGirt decision overturned or clarified and limited. Even without retroactive application, McGirt has opened prison doors and let violent criminals go free," said General O'Connor. 

Music Monday: Rescue the Perishing

It's been a while since I did one of these, but there's no time like the present to revive an old staple! This Music Monday post is a reader's submission: the Christian hymn Rescue the Perishing by Fanny Crosby.

From Greg:

I grew up listening to this as a child at Boulevard Christian Church [in Muskogee], then located at the corner of East Side Boulevard and Okmulgee.

In the summer of 1980 at the age of 27, I was in Bangalore, India, doing mission work. I was single and had spent most the last 5-6 years travelling and was battling depression. I went into a church, St. John's Anglican Church, and was sitting in a pew, praying and meditating. I picked up a hymnal and it fell open to Rescue the Perishing. The 3rd stanza jumped out at me:

Down in the human heart,
Crushed by the tempter,
Feelings lie buried that grace can restore;
Touched by a loving heart, wakened by kindness,
Chords that were broken will vibrate once more. [Refrain]

That verse lifted my spirits and remains dear to me some 41 years later.

Thanks for requesting this great old hymn, Greg! Here it is, as sung at Southwest Baptist Church in Oklahoma City:

Enjoy!

See below for all previous Music Monday posts. Do you have a song you'd like to suggest for a future Music Monday? Email me at JamisonFaught@MuskogeePolitico.com.

State Rep. Sean Roberts to file Texas-style bill allowing abortion lawsuits

Roberts to File Bill Allowing Abortion Lawsuits

OKLAHOMA CITY (January 7th) – Rep. Sean Roberts, R-Hominy, has announced today that he plans to file legislation that would allow any individual in Oklahoma to sue doctors who perform an abortion after conception. The legislation is similar to a portion of Texas' Senate Bill 8 which went into effect on Sep. 8.

"The pro-life citizens of Oklahoma should have the ability to help hold these doctors accountable," Roberts said. "Individual citizens are an extremely important part of making sure that we are protecting the lives of the unborn. This legislation puts principle into action and I am going to fight extremely hard to get it passed during the upcoming session."

The bill would allow any individual in Oklahoma to sue doctors who perform an abortion after conception that is not for triage to save the mother's life. Plaintiffs would be able to seek up to $10,000 in damages in a civil court against abortion providers as well as anyone who "aids and abets" an illegal abortion.

OSDH working to secure monoclonal, oral COVID-19 treatment resources amid recent surge

OSDH team working clock to secure additional COVID-19 treatment resources amid recent surge

OKLAHOMA CITY — The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) is committed to protecting the health and safety of all Oklahomans and continues to advocate for them by accessing all available resources throughout this pandemic and most recent surge.

We know that monoclonal antibodies and antiviral oral treatments are currently in limited supply across the state and nation. The OSDH team has been working diligently with federal partners to secure more of these treatments for those who are at high-risk for severe COVID-19. Late yesterday, Oklahoma was approved to receive additional 1,000 doses each of Regen-Cov and BAM/ETE monoclonal treatments. OSDH will continue requesting COVID related treatments until we have a sufficient supply.

With the surge in cases, we know testing is a vital tool. In response, OSDH has increased access for testing, including expanded hours, some weekend hours and additional clinics across the state, as well as utilizing mobile units. 

Sen. Burns files bill designating use of King James Bible for elective courses, school libraries

This should have been Senate Bill 1611, by the way, instead of 1161.

I'll be honest. While I appreciate the sentiment, and absolutely agree that our founding fathers were tremendously influenced (dare I say, inspsired) by the Holy Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments, I'm not confident that they would be properly exposited and taught in the same public school system that is advancing critical race theory, molecules-to-man evolution, sexual perversion, and a host of other ungodly teachings.

Sen. Burns files bill designating use of King James Bible for elective courses, school libraries

OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. George Burns has introduced legislation for schools offering elective courses on Hebrew Scriptures and the New Testament to utilize the source that influenced the work of America’s Founding Fathers—the King James Bible.  He’s filed Senate Bill 1161 to ensure that version is used for the courses and is available in school libraries. 

“Our Founding Fathers relied heavily upon the scriptures in the formation of our country, and the Bible they used was the King James Bible, which makes it an important historical document,” said Burns, R-Pollard.  “It influenced the writing of the major documents that created this country, including the Constitution.  It’s historically accurate to use that version, and it is in the public domain, which is also important.”

Sen. Dahm files bill allowing sheriffs to arrest feds who confiscate guns, form posses to protect their county

Sen. Dahm files bill allowing sheriffs to arrest feds who confiscate guns, form posses to protect their county

OKLAHOMA CITY – In response to the growing concerns over federal violations of constitutionally-protected rights, Sen. Nathan Dahm, R-Broken Arrow, filed a trio of bills to strengthen the power of county sheriffs. Senate Bill 1199 would prohibit federal officers from carrying out any gun confiscation measures in Oklahoma. Senate Bill 1200 would require federal agents to notify the sheriff before operating in their county. Senate Bill 1201 would allow sheriffs to form posses to defend their county in times of emergency, disaster or from federal overreach.

“The Second Amendment clearly says the right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not be infringed,” Dahm said. “It is becoming ever more evident that the current administration holds almost no regard for the Constitution or our rights. We must be proactive in protecting the people of Oklahoma against any attempts at infringements from the feds.”

SB 1199 would expand the Second Amendment Sanctuary Act passed last year by allowing a mechanism for sheriffs to arrest federal officers attempting gun confiscation.

“I’ve heard from numerous sheriffs and constituents across this state who are concerned at the consistent ignoring of our Constitution happening by this rogue regime” Dahm said. “The Second Amendment was never solely about hunting unless you’re referring to hunting tyrants. It was about the people being able to protect themselves against a government that would seek to disarm them.”

SB 658, dubbed the “Second Amendment Sanctuary Act” was signed into law in 2021. Numerous legislators filed various bills on the topic with a final toned down version ultimately passing both the Senate and House and then signed by Governor Stitt.

“The original version of SB 658 had stronger teeth to enforce the law,” Dahm said. “Unfortunately we have those in the State Senate who prefer to operate like Chuck Schumer and think we need to bow to whatever the feds dictate. We can no longer allow those who are more concerned with federal funds dictating watered down versions of bills by excluding actual mechanisms to defend the rights of the people.”

SB 1200 would require that any federal agents or officers receive permission from the county sheriff before operating in their county.

“The county sheriff is the highest elected law enforcement officer in the county. And it’s become evident we can’t have unelected bureaucrats or agents of the rogue regime in D.C. operating in our state without accountability.” Dahm said. “This bill will bring accountability by an Oklahoman who is elected by the people of Oklahoma, not someone over a thousand miles away.”

SB 1201 would further empower sheriffs by expanding their ability to call on the people of Oklahoma for additional support by forming a posse.

New gun range and firearms training facility now open just north of Muskogee

The Muskogee area is home to a new gun range and training facility, owned and operated by local firearms experts Link and Susan Mock. Glenndale Grace Firearms & Training is located on the east side of US Highway 69 just north of Muskogee, between the Muskogee Turnpike and the Arkansas River (map).

Current hours for the month of January are Tuesday through Friday from 2:00 pm till dark and Saturday from 9:00 am till dark. The on-site store will not be completely stocked for a while but they do currently have some ammunition and odds and ends. February hours will be 10am to dark, Tuesday through Saturday.

The owners of GGF Firearms, Link and Susan Mock, are both NRA certified Pistol, Shotgun, and Rifle instructors and certified Chief Range Safety Officers. They hold the "Distinguished Expert" designation from the NRA in Defensive Pistol I and II, and in Basic Pistol Shooting. They are experienced instructors of various firearm courses and are certified gunsmiths currently adding to their credentials through continuing education. ​Link has more than 20-years experience in law enforcement, and is bringing his expertise to the range; additionally, Susan has 28-years experience as a professional educator and is bringing her expertise to the range as well.

State Health Dep't extends COVID testing hours; lab shows omicron topping delta for circulating variants

OSDH extends COVID-19 testing hours at local health departments

Extended hours, including weekends, available

OKLAHOMA CITY – With COVID-19 testing in higher demand and increased cases over the last week, the Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) is extending COVID-19 testing hours at local county health departments, and will offer weekend availability at select locations. Additionally, mobile units will be deployed to various locations throughout the state.  

Testing locations and hours can be found by visiting oklahoma.gov/covid19/testing-sites or county health department Facebook pages. Oklahomans can also call their local county health department or 2-1-1 for hours and locations.  

“While at-home testing is convenient, and rapid testing provides an immediate result, it is important to remember PCR tests provide the most accurate results, allow for variant sequencing and the ability to contact trace,” stated Jolianne Stone, Oklahoma state epidemiologist. “PCR test results are typically available within 24-48 hours and are highly encouraged for accurate testing.” 

PCR test results are reported to OSDH, automatically entering the result into the OSDHCI self-service case investigation system. This system allows Oklahomans to do their own contact tracing through an automated process. Public health workers are still available to assist as needed. 

“Like other states, Oklahoma is seeing a rise in COVID-19 cases, however many other respiratory illnesses are occurring as well,” stated Keith Reed, interim commissioner of health. “We highly encourage anyone who is feeling ill to stay home from work, school and other activities and schedule a COVID-19 test or appointment with their physician. Staying home while awaiting your appointment, results and for your symptoms to clear is important for your health and will help prevent the spread of illness.” 

COVID-19 variants in Oklahoma mix of omicron and delta

Surveillance shows 57% omicron and 43% delta 

OKLAHOMA CITY –Variant sequencing at the OSDH Public Health (PHL) lab of most recent specimens from over the holidays shows a mix of omicron (57%) and delta (43%). This surveillance data is important to providers and the public to understand what is going on in the state.  

“Our team continues to monitor cases and hospitalizations to provide critical data that allows Oklahomans to make the best decisions for themselves,” stated Keith Reed, interim commissioner of health. “Coinciding with our increased case count and what other states are seeing, current data shows omicron is increasing in Oklahoma, and we anticipate that will continue.” 

Variant sequencing continues to be conducted on all positive COVID-19 tests provided to the PHL. This full sequencing process can take up to four days for completion. 

The Oklahoma State Department of Health (OSDH) protects and improves public health through its system of local health services and strategies focused on preventing disease. OSDH provides technical support and guidance to 68 county health departments in Oklahoma, as well as guidance and consultation to the two independent city-county health departments in Oklahoma City and Tulsa. Learn more at Oklahoma.gov/health. 

Canadian County Sheriff endorses Carol Hefner for OKC Mayor

CANADIAN COUNTY SHERIFF CHRIS WEST ENDORSES CAROL HEFNER FOR OKC MAYOR

Oklahoma City, OK-- Today, community leader and candidate for Mayor of Oklahoma City Carol Hefner announced she has been endorsed by Canadian County Sheriff Chris West. West is a fifth-generation Oklahoman and lifelong resident of Canadian County. He served in the United States Marine Corps and later served twenty-eight years with the Oklahoma Department of Public Safety.

See Sheriff West's full endorsement video here:

Honored to be endorsed by one of the most respected men in law enforcement, Sheriff Chris West.

Posted by Carol Hefner for Oklahoma City Mayor on Monday, January 3, 2022

Carol Hefner had this to say:

Baptist pastors release film on how Pro-Life movement is keeping abortion legal in OK

A Storm Comes Rolling Down the Plain: The Movement to Abolish Abortion Without Compromise in Oklahoma

Powerful New Documentary Reveals How the Pro-Life Movement Keeps Abortion Legal in Oklahoma

Oklahoma City, OK -- A Storm Comes Rolling Down the Plain tells the providential story of the church rising to bring the gospel into conflict with the horrors of abortion in Oklahoma. It presents the church of King Jesus as she proclaims the gospel as the ultimate antidote to modern day child sacrifice.

In contrast, it shows how the super-majority of Republican pro-life politicians have fought to kill bills that would abolish abortion immediately, without exception or compromise.  The storm in Oklahoma is building as the Church repents and rises up to work to end what the pro-life movement has only sought to regulate for the last 48 years.  

Lankford responds to Schumer's Senate Rules threat

Lankford Responds to Schumer's Senate Rules Threat

OKLAHOMA CITY, OK – Senator James Lankford (R-OK) issued the following statement on Senator Chuck Schumer’s (D-NY) threat to override Senate rules to bend to his progressive legislative agenda:

“Schumer’s threat to change the rules of the Senate unless he gets his way is not just a temper tantrum; it is a threat to our Republic. For over two centuries, the Senate is the one place in our government where minority opinions have a voice, unless Senator Schumer gets his way. In 2017, 32 Senate Democrats signed a letter saying that the filibuster should not change—27 of those Democrats are still in the Senate. Now that they are in power, they want to do whatever it takes to pass their progressive legislative agenda by changing the historic rules of our Republic.

National School Boards Association compared parents to terrorists; 17 states have left, but not Oklahoma

AS OTHERS EXIT, OSSBA MAINTAINS NSBA TIES

by Ray Carter, Director, Center for Independent Journalism

A majority of state school boards associations have publicly distanced themselves from the National School Boards Association (NSBA) after the national group compared parents to terrorists, and 17 state associations have withdrawn from the NSBA.

But the Oklahoma State School Boards Association (OSSBA) is not among them, and the organization continues its policy of public silence regarding the controversy even as state lawmakers may be poised to require parental approval for schools funds to go, directly or indirectly, to the NSBA.

In a public letter issued to the Biden administration on Sept. 29, NSBA officials declared that opponents of Critical Race Theory and mask mandates represented “an immediate threat” that included “threats of violence and acts of intimidation,” and said “the classification of these heinous actions could be the equivalent to a form of domestic terrorism and hate crimes.”

“NSBA believes immediate assistance is required to protect our students, school board members, and educators who are susceptible to acts of violence affecting interstate commerce because of threats to their districts, families, and personal safety,” the letter stated. “As our school boards continue coronavirus recovery operations within their respective districts, they are also persevering against other challenges that could impede this progress in a number of communities. Coupled with attacks against school board members and educators for approving policies for masks to protect the health and safety of students and school employees, many public school officials are also facing physical threats because of propaganda purporting the false inclusion of critical race theory within classroom instruction and curricula.”

The NSBA letter specifically cited only a handful of examples of alleged extremism nationwide. Most fell far short of terrorism and often amounted to little more than verbal disruption.

The NSBA letter said such incidents justified investigation by the U.S. Department of Justice, Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI), U.S. Department of Homeland Security, the U.S. Secret Service and its National Threat Assessment Center.

Shortly thereafter, U.S. Attorney General Merrick Garland issued a memorandum announcing that he was ordering the FBI to meet with state and local officials to develop “strategies for addressing threats against school administrators, board members, teachers, and staff.”

The fallout from the incident has been nationwide as numerous state school boards associations have fled from any association with the NSBA.

Parents Defending Education has maintained a list of state school boards associations that have denounced the NSBA’s actions. That list has grown to include 27 states that have distanced themselves from the NSBA’s letter: Alabama, Arkansas, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kentucky, Louisiana, Mississippi, Missouri, Montana, New Hampshire, New Jersey, North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, West Virginia, Wisconsin, and Wyoming.

Seventeen state associations have further demonstrated their displeasure by withdrawing from the NSBA. That group includes Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Missouri, Mississippi, Montana, New Hampshire, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and Wisconsin.