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.
Get the Daily Brief
The news you care about, reported on by the people who care about you.The House reprimanded Kern in 2011 after she denigrated blacks and women during debate on a bill.
This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.
