Criticism Against Governor Stitt After His Video Endorsing Game Fowl Industry

There has been pushback from animal rights groups over a video the Governor made where he supports the game fowl industry.

Critics say the Governor is supporting the illegal sport of cockfighting.

On Wednesday, another prominent Oklahoman criticized Governor Stitt, while his administration insists he's only supporting agriculture.

The Governor spoke by video to a meeting of the Oklahoma Gamefowl Commission, which is not a state agency; it's an advocacy group that lobbies to lessen the penalties for cockfighting.

"You all know Oklahoma's long and storied history with game fowl, from statehood to today, Oklahomans like yourselves remain dedicated to the spirit of competition and camaraderie that runs deep in our communities," Stitt said in the video.

On Wednesday, former OU Coach Barry Switzer joined the critics.

 "I hope Governor Stitt made a mistake and will correct the record to say he opposes cockfighting and will oppose legislation to weaken our law," he said.

A spokesperson for Stitt said he "is not in favor of any sort of animal cruelty. He is in favor of the agricultural community.”

There has been an effort to lower the penalty for cockfighting, which failed in the last legislative session.

Governor Stitt told the Game Fowl group on video he looks forward to seeing what can be accomplished in the upcoming session.