Legal conflict continues between Stitt and Drummond
MVSKOKE RESERVATION – The conflict between Governor Kevin Stitt and Attorney General Gentner Drummond has continued as Stitt responded to Drummond’s refusal to prosecute Indigenous people hunting and fishing on Tribal land without a state-approved license, choosing to attack Drummond for his decision to abide by Tribal law.
In a press release sent out on Nov. 13, titled “Governor Stitt Defends Equal Enforcement of State Hunting Laws, Appoints Special Prosecutor,” Stitt attacked Drummond for his refusal to prosecute Indigenous people.
“The State of Oklahoma can prosecute Indians who commit non-major crimes in our state. I will not stand by and allow lawless Drummond to undermine district attorneys who are prosecuting crimes and keeping Oklahomans safe,” Stitt said.
Gov. Stitt then announced he appointed Russ Cochran, former Assistant District Attorney for both Lincoln and Pottawatomie Counties, as a special prosecutor. Cochran, a former Oklahoma Bureau of Narcotics General Counsel, will be tasked with prosecuting Indigenous people hunting and fishing without a state-approved license.
Drummond responded in a Nov. 20 press release, directly calling out Stitt for repeatedly spreading misinformation in regards to tribal sovereignty, and specifically calling out recent statements the governor made suggesting that Drummond believes Tribal citizens are allowed to hunt on private land without permission.
“Gov. Stitt has made a habit of spreading misinformation, especially when it comes to the sovereignty of the tribal nations of Oklahoma. He knows full well that the tribes in Oklahoma do not authorize their citizens to enter private property to hunt or fish without the landowner’s consent. Their tribal codes prohibit it, Oklahoma law prohibits it, and I have never suggested otherwise.” Drummond said in his press release.
Drummond then reaffirmed his commitment to upholding the law.
“The constant lies and corruption [by Gov. Stitt] must stop. The law has not changed and neither has my commitment to it. Oklahomans deserve truth and integrity. Enough is enough.” he said.
Drummond’s statements come as multiple Tribal Nations, including the Choctaw Nation, the Chickasaw Nation, and the Cherokee Nation, have filed a federal lawsuit with the United States District Court for Northern Oklahoma against Gov. Stitt, Cochran, and the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation.
According to a Nov. 18 release from the Choctaw Nation, the lawsuit argues that Gov. Stitt and the Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation have violated Tribal sovereignty and jurisdiction by continuing to prosecute Indigenous hunters and fishermen on Tribal land. It also argues Gov. Stitt lacks authority to appoint a special prosecutor to prosecute wildlife crimes that occur on Tribal land.
Oklahoma asks SCOTUS to ignore Muscogee citizen tax dispute or 'revisit McGirt' ruling
By Sarah Liese (Twilla), Robby Korth, KOSU
Attorneys for Oklahoma’s Tax Commission are asking the US Supreme Court not to hear the tax dispute of a Muscogee Nation citizen. But if they do, they should “revisit” the landmark McGirt ruling.
Stroble v. Oklahoma Tax Commission could have major implications for tribal nations across the US if the Supreme Court decides to rule on it.
That’s why the five largest tribes in Oklahoma have already filed petitions in favor of a SCOTUS ruling.
Now, the state is asking the justices not to weigh in and let the state supreme court ruling stand. The decision requires tribal citizens who work for their tribe and live on their reservation to pay Oklahoma income tax.
Oklahoma’s attorneys argue the decision would cost the state at least $200 million and continue to create budgetary issues.
If SCOTUS does take up the case, though, state attorneys argue that justices should reconsider the landmark McGirt decision, which reaffirmed reservations across eastern Oklahoma. They write the court should “revisit McGirt itself, both because it was incorrectly decided and because the predicted problems with the decision have been borne out in practice.”
Stroble asked the U.S. Supreme Court to hear her case in September. It rests on the argument that she was exempt from paying state income taxes from 2017-19 because she is an enrolled tribal member, worked for the Muscogee National Council and lived inside the tribe’s reservation boundaries in Okmulgee.
But the Oklahoma Tax Commission argued Stroble did not live on land considered Indian Country because her fee title for her residence originated from a non-tribal entity and was not held in trust or federally owned as restricted reservation land.
Over the summer, the Oklahoma Supreme Court sided with the state tax commission in a 6-3 opinion.
In the majority opinion, justices wrote that the land where she resided was not considered Indian Country and that the landmark McGirt decision did not extend to civil cases. Gov. Kevin Stitt, a critic of tribal sovereignty and the McGirt ruling, appointed four of the concurring justices.
Four U.S. Supreme Court justices must vote in favor to take up the case. More than 40 cases have been granted for hearing during the 2025-2026 term, but an exact timeline for Stroble’s is unclear.
CHOCTAW ANNOUNCED AS OFFICIAL
DALLAS WORLD CUP 2026 HOST CITY SUPPORTER
North Texas FWC Organizing Committee continues momentum toward 2026 with new partnership
DALLAS, TX– The North Texas FWC Organizing Committee announced today that Choctaw Casinos & Resorts has been named an Official Dallas World Cup 2026 Host City Supporter, joining a select group of leading brands helping to bring the world’s biggest sporting event to North Texas.
“Unity, culture and togetherness are core values of the Choctaw Nation, and they have guided us for generations,” said Chief Gary Batton, Chief of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma. “As we welcome the FIFA World Cup to North Texas, we’re honored to celebrate an event that reflects those same global ideals. We look forward to sharing this meaningful experience with fans from around the world.”
As a Host City Supporter, Choctaw Casinos & Resorts will play a key role in supporting community engagement initiatives aligned with the North Texas FWC Organizing Committee’s legacy initiatives. The brand’s involvement will also include visibility throughout the region through special activations and promotions designed to celebrate the world’s game and connect with fans leading up to 2026.
“Choctaw Casinos & Resorts has been an incredible partner in elevating sports and entertainment across the region, and we’re proud to welcome them as an Official Dallas World Cup 2026 Host City Supporter,” said Monica Paul, Executive Director of the Dallas Sports Commission and President of the North Texas FWC Organizing Committee. “Their longstanding commitment to the North Texas community and support for major sporting events make them a perfect fit as we prepare to host fans from around the globe.”
Choctaw Casinos & Resorts has built a long-standing legacy of investment in North Texas sports, serving as a proud partner of organizations, including the Texas Rangers, Dallas Mavericks, Dallas Stars, CJ Cup Byron Nelson, Charles Schwab Challenge, Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dickies Arena.
With 23 casinos across its brand, Choctaw Casinos & Resorts stands as a leader in gaming and entertainment. As a premier entertainment destination for North Texans and for soccer fans from around the world visiting the region for the FIFA World Cup, Choctaw delivers an unmatched experience defined by a world-class gaming experience and an elevated level of entertainment and hospitality.
The flagship property in Durant, Oklahoma, located just a short drive from Dallas-Fort Worth, offers guests an exceptional gaming experience with 7,400 slot machines, more than 100 table games – including blackjack, craps, and roulette – and a dedicated poker room. The resort also features a full-service spa, more than 20 restaurants, 21 bars, along with a wide range of family-friendly amenities including pools, a movie theater and bowling alley.
With the FIFA World Cup 26™ coming to North America for the first time in 32 years, Dallas will serve as one of 16 Host Cities, hosting nine matches, including a semi-final, and events throughout the tournament. The North Texas FWC Organizing Committee continues to build momentum through corporate partnerships, legacy initiatives, and community programs designed to ensure that the impact of the tournament extends far beyond 2026.
Celebrate the season at the McSwain Theatre with holiday shows
Celebrate holiday magic at the McSwain Theatre with two entertaining shows in December.
The Christmas Spectacular, featuring Jae L. & Crossover with special guests, is set 7 p.m., Saturday, Dec. 20 and the McSwain Theatre’s New Year’s Eve Show, 7-9 p.m., Wednesday, Dec.31.
“Join us as we celebrate this magical season at the McSwain,” McSwain Theatre Manager Jae L. Stilwell said. “Crossover, our amazing house band — along with our special guests and a few surprises — will fill the night with heart, harmony and holiday cheer.”
The beloved Christmas Spectacular will feature classic Christmas performances and toe-tapping country hits performed by Jae L. & Crossover and special guests.
Guest performers include Anne Young, Murphy, Texas; Bo Posey, Weleetka, Oklahoma; John Williams, Maysville, Oklahoma; Jeremy Studdard, Oklahoma City; Cathy Lake, Noble, Oklahoma; Ava, Aiden, Raylee and Tara Scott, all of Duncan, Oklahoma; Chandler Elliott and Debbie Allen, of Ada, Oklahoma; Santa and Mrs. Claus, North Pole; and the Christmas Kids.
“The McSwain Theatre is decorated for the season and welcomes everyone to make memories and share in the fun,” Stilwell said.
Ring in the new year at the McSwain Theatre’s New Year’s Eve Show.
A fan favorite, Jae L. & Crossover continue a long tradition of ushering in the new year with an entertaining variety show featuring several talented special guests.
“Get ready for a high-energy evening packed with crowd favorites, from country, rock and gospel classic hits from the ‘50s through the ‘90s, as well as today’s hits,” Stilwell said. “Enjoying live music performed by our talented special guests is a great way to greet the new year.”
Special guests include Cheryl Covington, Sterling, Oklahoma; Cory Brooks, Maud, Oklahoma; Kylie Hilliard, Plano, Texas; Jayden Jolly and Geneè Carlton, both of Elmore City, Oklahoma; Lonnie Bartmess, Tishia Agee, Chandler Elliott and Debbie Allen, all of Ada, Oklahoma; and Missy Rude, Pauls Valley, Oklahoma.
Led by Stilwell, the talented Crossover Band includes Jody Teeter, Deni Stubbs, Greg Griffin, Wayne Morton, Susan Oden, Zach Sutton, Gary Bryan and Kenny Anderson.
Season tickets for the monthly Jae L. & Crossover showcase are now available.
For more information or to purchase tickets, visit McSwainTheatre.com/Tickets, call the McSwain Theatre at (580) 332-8108 or visit the McSwain’s box office, 130 W. Main St., Ada, Oklahoma.
