From The Associated Press ~ Oklahoma political leaders are condemning talk of creating an armed citizen militia, but a proponent says he stands behind the idea although he's moderated his position.
Two conservative lawmakers and some tea party leaders have endorsed the idea of a state militia to defend what they believe are improper federal infringements on state sovereignty.
Attorney General Drew Edmondson, a Democratic candidate for governor, said Tuesday the state already has a National Guard sufficient to respond to emergencies.
He says the idea of armed citizens taking action against the federal government is "a bit scary."
Congresswoman Mary Fallin, a Republican gubernatorial candidate, also says those who want to become a citizen-soldier should join the Oklahoma National Guard.
Another GOP candidate for governor, state Senator Randy Brogdon, says he stands by the idea, but has moved to temper his initial remarks in which he said a citizen milita could rise up against the federal government.