GOP Senate candidate in Oklahoma speaks of 'rampant' lesbianism in schools
By: RON JENKINS - Associated Press Writer | ∞
OKLAHOMA CITY (AP) -- The Republican Senate candidate in Oklahoma warns of "rampant" lesbianism in some schools in the state in a tape released Monday by his Democratic opponent.
The remark by Republican Tom Coburn drew a skeptical response from state educators.
"I don't believe that," said Keith Ballard, executive director of the Oklahoma State School Boards Association. He said the group's attorneys "haven't said anything to me about that."
In the tape released by the campaign of Brad Carson, the Democratic candidate, Coburn says a campaign worker from Coalgate told him that "lesbianism is so rampant in some of the schools in southeast Oklahoma that they'll only let one girl go to the bathroom. Now think about it. Think about that issue. How is it that that's happened to us?"
Joe McCulley, school superintendent in Coalgate, chuckled when asked about Coburn's remark.
"He knows something I don't know. We have not identified anything like that. We have not had to deal with any issues on that subject -- ever," McCulley said.
The comment came at a town hall meeting in Hugo on Aug. 31 and was taped by a Democratic campaign worker.
John Hart, spokesman for Coburn, said the remark was made during a broader discussion about the challenges parents face in society "where our kids are getting mixed messages about sexuality."
Hart would not say that Coburn misspoke. "I wasn't there," he said.
Of the educators' skepticism, Hart said: "If that's what they say, I guess we will have to take their word for it."
Coburn and Carson are vying for the post that Republican Don Nickles is leaving after 24 years. The race could be pivotal in the battle for control of the Senate.
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Holly S. wrote on Nov 4, 2007 12:18 AM:It is obvious that Senator Coburn is out of touch with modern society. I personally blame him for his negative stance regarding Brady Bill legislation. My daughter was killed by a crazed killer. and All I see is reluctance to tighten up the rules/
Justin V. wrote on Apr 4, 2008 10:00 AM:Oh No !!! Rampant Lesbianism !!!
Let's see, we have an unjust war 5 years old, an economy about to go to the toilet, corruption throughout politics, human rights abuses by our own government in Guantanamo Bay, the threat of terrorist activity, and this Doofus is worried about marauding lesbians.
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