In what some are calling a sudden and controversial move, Oklahoma Governor has authorized state National Guard members to volunteer for deployment to Washington D.C. This decision, announced this past Monday, December 1, has sparked ire from local politicians, including Rep. Michelle McCane, D-Tulsa. Citing a reversal of position, McCane fiercely criticized the Governor, whose action seems to deviate from an earlier statement in August indicating no such plans, according to the Oklahoma House of Representatives.
During a press release, McCane condemned the sending of troops, calling it "disingenuous" of the Governor to change course "months later without reason." She also slammed the move as costly and not serving the interests of Oklahomans. "This decision by the Governor is solely to appease the Trump Administration and does not serve Oklahomans," McCane said, expressing her frustration with the state resources being used in such a manner, especially since "Oklahoma was not directly asked to send troops to DC."
As reported by the Oklahoma House of Representatives, the Governor has given the green light to Oklahoma National Guard members for a 90-day deployment to the nation's capital. This announcement has citizens questioning the motivation behind this decision, echoing McCane’s sentiments.
McCane, addressing the needs within the State of Oklahoma, argued that the help of the troops could be better utilized at home. "We have issues in the State of Oklahoma that could use the help of our troops. There is no specific reason given by the Governor to send our troops to DC now," McCane further explained, highlighting the apparent disconnect between state priorities and the Governor’s actions. This is being viewed as a waste of taxpayer dollars, especially in light of the Governor's prior commitments, as mentioned in the same news.
The unfolding story will be watched closely, with many constituents eager to understand the implications of this deployment on both state security and finances. Meanwhile, the Governor’s office has yet to respond to the criticism or provide further details on the sudden shift in the deployment plans of the Oklahoma National Guard.
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