Senator Tom Woods is facing criticism for a statement he made on Friday related to the death of a non-binary teenager named Nex Benedict. Their death is under investigation.
During a town hall meeting, Woods used the word filth in describing the LGBTQ community.
Senate President Pro Tem Greg Treat said he was disappointed in Wood’s choice of rhetoric.
“Senator Woods and I have spoken, and I made it clear that his remarks were reprehensible and inappropriate,” Treat said. “I am of the belief that all people are image-bearers of God and deserve to be treated with dignity and respect. His remarks were not in any way reflective of myself, the Senate Republican caucus, Senate leadership or the Senate overall. In my opinion, he had a serious lapse of judgment and it has distracted from the mission and good work we are attempting to advance on behalf of all Oklahomans.”
After Treat issued that statement, Woods issued one of his own.
“Firstly, I want to say that a child losing their life is horrible. They were a victim of bullying and that is never okay. It is always a tragedy when someone loses their life. I said that Friday and I mean that still today. I hope anyone struggling in a similar position gets the help they need as soon as possible.
“I also want to say that I stand behind what I believe in. The groups and individuals who push gender reassignment on children in our schools, and anyone else who is trying to normalize behavior that shouldn’t be tolerated, is unacceptable in my mind.
“This is an agenda that is being forced on Oklahoma kids. My voting record speaks for itself. I supported legislation to keep men out of women’s sports and to protect children from being mutilated by transition surgery before they can make an informed decision.
“I will continue to push for a day when kids can be kids again and be free from the pressure of conforming to radical ideologies.”
