Okla. GOP gov. candidate backs off anti-federal government tone in supporting state militia

Okla. lawmaker changes tone of militia support

OKLAHOMA CITY — A Republican candidate for Oklahoma governor who endorsed the idea of a state citizen militia is retreating from his earlier position that the force would be used to oppose the federal government.

State Sen. Randy Brogdon said Tuesday that a militia would instead be used as an auxiliary state force during emergencies because the Oklahoma National Guard falls under federal control.

Brogdon was among some conservative members of the Oklahoma Legislature and tea party leaders who had said creating a new volunteer militia could help defend against what they believe are improper federal infringements on state sovereignty.

Tea party movement leaders say they’ve discussed the idea with several supportive lawmakers and hope to get legislation next year to recognize a new volunteer force.