For Immediate Release
June 18, 2020

Media Contact:
Angela Allmond, Communications Director
Oklahoma Democratic Party
405-536-2412

Interview Contacts:

Alicia Andrews, Chair
alicia@okdemocrats.org
918-951-6344

Scott J. Hamilton, Executive Director
scott@okdemocrats.org
718-216-9200

Ego Over Health and Safety Unacceptable

OKLAHOMA CITY – The Trump campaign doesn’t care about the health and safety of Oklahomans. Trump is more interested in himself and pandering to his shrinking base as he continues to ignore health experts at the expense of Oklahoma citizens.

“A large-scale indoor rally threatens the health and safety of thousands of people while burdening a city with traffic congestion, expenses, and chaos,” stated ODP Chairwoman Alicia Andrews. “Holding the rally on the weekend of a traditional Juneteenth celebration intrudes on festivities, and highjacks planned community events. Trump’s actions and words have done more to divide Black Americans than unite, and this rally will be no exception.”

Andrews continued, “Oklahoma health experts have angrily denounced this rally and the health devastation it will likely bring to people. Oklahoma has seen some of the most significant spikes in both COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations since March despite Pence’s false claim that cases are on the decline.

“Where are the Republican leaders on caring for the safety of Oklahomans? They have done nothing to discourage the rally. Instead, they have encouraged and welcomed Trump with open arms knowing of the health risk to our state, the Historic Greenwood District 1921 Race Massacre, and Juneteenth celebrations. It is incredulous that Trump chose Tulsa, and originally Juneteenth, June 19th, to hold a rally. There is no expectation that this rally will be anything different than his typical divisive and hateful nature directed at marginalized communities at a time when many Tulsans will celebrate unity and freedom,” Andrews concluded.

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For more information about the Oklahoma Democratic Party, visit the party website at okdemocrats.org, or call party headquarters at 405-427-3366.