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4w ago

Senator Mullin Faces Backlash Over Comments Linking Violence to 'Fake News'

The Oklahoma senator claims his remarks referencing a historical shooting were a joke, but critics highlight his history of provocative rhetoric.

WASHINGTON, DC - MARCH 29: Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) speaks during a Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee hearing featuring former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz in the Dirksen Senate Office Building on Capitol Hill on March 29, 2023 in Washington, DC.
Sen. Markwayne Mullin, R-Okla., at the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 14, 2025.
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Overview

  • Senator Markwayne Mullin suggested in a video that journalists might write fewer 'false stories' if violence were used to resolve disputes, referencing an 1890 shooting involving a journalist and a congressman.
  • Mullin later defended his comments as a joke on X, while criticizing The Oklahoman for reporting on the video, accusing the outlet of being out of touch with Oklahoma.
  • The remarks have reignited discussions about the use of inflammatory rhetoric by political figures and tensions between the media and populist politicians.
  • Mullin has a history of controversial behavior, including a near-physical altercation during a 2023 Senate hearing and accusations against lawmakers for alleged misconduct.
  • A staunch ally of former President Donald Trump, Mullin's comments align with broader populist rhetoric targeting the media as 'fake news.'