Oklahoma Governor Takes Tribal Hunting Dispute to State Supreme Court

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The ongoing dispute between Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt and the state's Attorney General Gentner Drummond over tribal hunting and fishing rights has escalated, with the Governor filing a new court case with the state's Supreme Court. This move comes after the Attorney General issued an opinion that contradicted the Governor's stance on the issue.

Why it matters

The fight over tribal hunting and fishing rights is a long-standing and complex issue in Oklahoma, with the state government and Native American tribes often at odds. The Governor's decision to take the case to the state's highest court suggests he is unwilling to back down, despite the Attorney General's legal opinion against his position.

The details

In his new court filing, Governor Stitt is seeking to have the state Supreme Court weigh in on the dispute, which centers around the scope of tribal hunting and fishing rights. Attorney General Drummond had previously issued an opinion stating that the tribes have broad rights in this area, contradicting the Governor's stance. Drummond accused Stitt of 'ignoring legal advice he doesn't like and attempting to bully state officials into submission'.

• On January 30, 2026, the Governor filed the new case with the state Supreme Court.
• In late 2025, Attorney General Drummond issued an opinion on tribal hunting and fishing rights that went against the Governor's position.

What they’re saying

What’s next

The state Supreme Court will now have to decide whether to take up the case and rule on the dispute over tribal hunting and fishing rights.