Oklahoma AG Calls for Removal of Afghan Refugees Amid Security Concerns

Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond, a Republican gubernatorial candidate, is demanding the removal of thousands of Afghan refugees resettled in Oklahoma in 2021, citing insufficient vetting and public safety concerns. Drummond's call follows President Donald Trump's travel ban on Afghanistan and other countries, and he criticizes Governor Kevin Stitt for partnering with the Biden administration on the resettlement, accusing him of endangering the public and misusing tax dollars. Governor Stitt and refugee advocates strongly oppose Drummond's position, emphasizing the refugees' legal status and their contributions as allies who supported U.S. forces, calling Drummond's statements fearmongering and politically motivated. Refugee advocates highlight the unfairness of generalizing the Afghan community based on isolated violent incidents, while Stitt condemns the idea of abandoning Afghans to the Taliban. Drummond maintains that his priority is law and order, asserting that recent federal investigations prove vetting failures. The debate underscores deep political divisions over immigration and public safety in Oklahoma ahead of the 2026 gubernatorial race.