OK Senate Retires to Executive Session, Black Caucus Responds

Members of Legislative Black Caucus Respond to Senate Reaction to Dahm, Dr. Cooper

OKLAHOMA CITY — Two House Democrats and members of the Legislative Black Caucus released the following statements today after the Oklahoma State Senate went into executive session in response to the Thursday sermon delivered by Prospect Baptist Church Pastor Dr. Lee E. Cooper.

Dr. Cooper condemned the comments made last week by Senator Nathan Dahm, which made innuendo toward Vice President Kamala Harris – the highest-ranking female member of the executive branch and the first black vice president in the history of the United States.

Legislative Black Caucus Chair Rep. Jason Lowe, D-OKC:

“I stand with Pastor Cooper in his condemnation of the statements made by Senator Dahm,” Lowe said. “Pastor Cooper was speaking the truth, which is that Senator Dahm’s statements were reprehensible.”

“Pastor Cooper is an outstanding community leader and I am grateful for his leadership and service.”

Rep. Ajay Pittman, D-OKC: 

“I believe there are many opportunities for people with different beliefs to come together and have courageous conversations. As state leaders, we should be leading the charge to have civil conversations regarding racism, sexism, and gender. In light of the recent incidents which may be viewed as controversial, the recent reactions by community leaders have been fueled by Senator Dahm’s sexist comments regarding the United States Vice President, Kamala Harris.”