OKLAHOMA CITY — A conservative Oklahoma Republican who’s sparked criticism in recent years for disparaging remarks against gays and minorities is doubling down on her remarks as her career comes to a close.
During a farewell speech this week to her House colleagues, Rep. Sally Kern said she stood by the remarks she made in 2008 when she said gay people pose a greater threat to the country than terrorists.
Kern — a former schoolteacher and the wife of a Baptist preacher — is term-limited and can’t run for re-election. Her retirement is being celebrated by gay rights advocates who have worked to oppose Kern’s legislative agenda for years and who sponsored a “Farewell Sally” fundraiser.
The House reprimanded Kern in 2011 after she denigrated blacks and women during debate on a bill.
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