Charles McCall reaffirmed his strong support for Oklahoma poultry producers today, criticizing Attorney General Gentner Drummond’s legal campaign against agriculture and rural communities.
“Oklahoma agriculture is the backbone of our economy and our values,” McCall said. “When families follow the law and meet environmental standards, they should not be punished by environmental activist lawsuits or government overreach.”
As Speaker of the House, McCall led the passage of SB 1424 in 2024, a law that protects growers from lawsuits when they follow environmental rules set by the Oklahoma Department of Environmental Quality. Despite those protections, Drummond has continued legal action against poultry companies and contract producers.
“Instead of standing up for Oklahoma growers, Attorney General Drummond is siding with environmental progressives,” McCall said. “That is not leadership. It is political theater, and it is hurting real people in real Oklahoma communities.”
McCall warned that targeting industry leaders like Tyson, Cargill, George’s, Simmons, and Cal-Maine will only drive jobs and investment out of the state.
“Our poultry producers support thousands of Oklahoma jobs and entire rural economies,” McCall said. “We should be standing with them, not driving them away.”
McCall also voiced agreement with Oklahoma Farm Bureau President Stacy Simunek, who recently warned of the consequences tied to reductions in poultry operations.
“I fully agree with the Oklahoma Farm Bureau. Our poultry growers have worked for years to protect water quality through voluntary conservation, nutrient management, and partnerships with state and federal agencies. Punishing them now sends the wrong message to every farmer in Oklahoma,” McCall said.
McCall said we should support, not punish responsible producers and growers.
“We all want clean water, and no one wants it more than the farmers who live and work on this land,” McCall said. “But protecting the environment should not mean punishing the people who are doing the right thing. That is the Oklahoma way, and that is the kind of leadership I will bring as Governor.”
