Sens. Griffin, David, Bice Discuss Concerns Over OKGOP Political Director TC Ryan
Republican Senators Issue statement regarding reassignment of T.C. Ryan to Political Director of State Republican Party
Republican State Senators spoke out today about their concerns that a man who was recently appointed as executive director of the Oklahoma Republican Party had pled guilty in 2012 to charges related to domestic abuse. Senators A.J. Griffin, Kim David and Stephanie Bice issued comments questioning the appointment of T.C. Ryan, who in 2012 pled guilty to a count of domestic assault and battery in the presence of a minor child, and interference with an emergency telephone call.
“The Oklahoma Republican Party should take the strongest stand possible against domestic violence and issues concerning violence against women,” said Senator A.J. Griffin. “It is very difficult for the Party to have any credibility on this issue when people in positions of power and privilege within its ranks have recently pled guilty in connection to a crime of this nature. My hope is that our Party chairman makes the right decision and removes T.C. Ryan from employment with the State Party.”
Senator David said it is important that the Republican Party project an attitude of caring and respect toward victims of abuse, but also have constructive solutions.
“We believe it’s important for the leadership of our party to communicate that we care about this important issue, and that we as a Party have compassion for the victims of domestic abuse,” said Senator David. “As such, we believe Ryan should not just be reassigned to a different role, but rather be removed from employment.”
Senator Stephanie Bice said the Party must not allow Ryan to continue as an employee.
“While we certainly believe in redemption and reconciliation, we also believe there are consequences to actions,” said Senator Bice. “This is not the time or place for a period of learning and education. This is about the leadership of our Party, and its responsibility to help educate, communicate and construct others. For the good of our Party we believe Ryan should resign permanently.”
The Senators said they look forward to an ongoing conversation within the Party about domestic violence and violence against women, and hope that steps are taken to ensure the Oklahoma Republican Party is a place where leaders exhibit respect for women.
So now our legislators pick and choose who’s sin is the most offensive? There is complete silence when a state legislators, are charged with DUI,s multiple times (Caudill, Trebilcock ) to name a few. Only now that we finally have grassroots leadership do they begin to dust off their high horses and climb aboard. For anyone who thinks this has an iota to do with domestic abuse, you aren’t paying attention. Randy was elected by the voters, it is our call, not the legislature. These representatives need to worry more about doing their own jobs, which is voting conservatively, and to quit giving up our rights, and wasting our money. This is just grandstanding and diversion, not to mention fear of losing control of the party they rode in on.