In a recent editorial, Tulsa World - Tulsa, Oklahoma’s largest newspaper, condemned President Trump and his plans for a rally in Tulsa’s Mabee Center this week. The paper states: “We don’t know why [Trump] chose Tulsa, but we can’t see any way that his visit will be good for the city.”
Given that Oklahoma is a strong Republican State and Trump easily carried it in 2016, a Trump rally there does not seem to be necessary at this time, especially considering challenges posed by the Covid-19 pandemic.
Despite Trump’s recent claim that Coronavirus figures are low and Vice President Pence’s claim that Oklahoma has “flattened the curve,” the virus’ levels are currently reaching their highest levels in Tulsa County. The paper warns this makes “a mass indoor gathering of people pressed closely together and cheering” a bad idea. Tulsa’s Health Department director has also weighed in, saying he “wishes” the rally would be delayed until the virus is more under control.
While the paper states their primary concern to be public health and says they would disavow a rally for any candidate, they are also concerned that Trump’s appearance, coming at a time of large social unrest, may bring unwanted conflicts between rally attendees and protestors. The editorial concludes: “When the president of the United States visits your city, it should be exciting. We think a Trump visit will be, but for a lot of the wrong reasons, and we can’t welcome it.”
Check out the full editorial here.