Markwayne Mullin recounted that a reporter fatally shot a former congressman in 1890, adding there might be less "fake news ... if we could still handle our differences that way."

Summary

Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.) posted a video suggesting journalists would report “less false stories” if violence were still used to resolve disputes.

He referenced the 1890 Capitol shooting of Rep. William Taulbee by reporter Charles Kincaid, who was acquitted.

After backlash, Mullin claimed he was joking and criticized The Oklahoman for covering the story.

A former MMA fighter, Mullin had previously threatened a union leader in a Senate hearing. Critics say his remarks echo Trump’s escalating “fake news” rhetoric and hostility toward the press.

  • user01@lemm.eeEnglish
    13·
    6 days ago

    Nothing in his tone suggests it’s a joke. He appears to be creating this video to tell a historic story relevant to that place. He nor annyone else nearby laughs. Posted to his senate account used for official communication. He can fuck all the way off with that lame ass attempt at an excuse.