Senate Democratic Leader makes statement regarding chaplain prayer

Senate Democratic Leader John Sparks released the following statement on behalf of the Senate Democratic Caucus:

“It is an observed custom of the Senate that a guest chaplain be invited to deliver a brief five minute sermon to the Senate on the last day of session for the week. This morning, Pastor Bill Ledbetter of Fairview Baptist Church in Durant, who has served as guest chaplain for the week at the invitation of Senator Josh Brecheen, delivered a sermon which was hateful and promoted his personal political agenda.

There is no place for intolerance and hate in the Senate Chamber or anywhere else in Oklahoma. As senators we were elected to serve all people in Oklahoma and we should not condone or encourage divisive rhetoric which targets any Oklahoman.

The Senate Democratic Caucus calls on Pastor Ledbetter to apologize for his remarks. We also urge the leadership of the Senate to ensure that future guest chaplains are respectful when addressing the Senate.”