Oklahoma politicians are speaking out aboutthe historic indictment of former President Donald Trump.
Trump is the first former president in United States history to be criminally indicted. Manhattan District Attorney Alvin Bragg's office has been investigating a hush money scheme involving Trump and adult film actress Stormy Daniels.
The grand jury's indictment is expected to be unsealed in the coming days.
Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt, who has been a big supporter of the former president, said the indictment sets a dangerous precedent.
"It's a dangerous, dangerous position for our country," Stitt said duringa press conference on Friday. "This justice system, if they are going to go after political opponents, you know, I think Oklahomans and I think Americans, quite frankly, are just disgusted by that."
In a statement, Sen. Markwayne Mullin called the indictment a sham, saying it’s in line with “radical leftists” who have gone after the former president since day one. He said the indictment will only make Trump stronger.
Congressman Josh Brecheenissued a statement calling the indictment a politically motivated witch hunt.
Alicia Andrews, chair of the Oklahoma Democratic Party, told Public Radio Tulsa her people are relieved.
"We understand that the former president has the opportunity to defend himself, and he is innocent until proven guilty, but this is the first step to restoring hope in America that the rule of law prevails," said Andrews.
Bragg's office told NPR they have contacted Trump’s attorney to "coordinate his surrender" for arraignment.
Trump is scheduled to appear in criminal court on Tuesday for the arraignment hearing.
This report was produced by the Oklahoma Public Media Exchange, a collaboration of public media organizations. Help support collaborative journalism by donating at the link at the top of this webpage.
