Sen. Markwayne Mullin Defends Trade Policy, Clarifies Joke on Press.
Senator Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) is doubling down on efforts to reshape U.S. trade policy, declaring in a new social media post that America is “resetting the trade imbalance” and finally “putting America First.”
The announcement, shared via X, was accompanied by a nearly two-minute video in which Mullin praised recent legislative and diplomatic actions aimed at bolstering domestic manufacturing and reducing reliance on foreign supply chains.
“This is a turning point,” Mullin said in the video. “We’re no longer sitting back while our workers and our economy are undercut. The American people deserve a trade policy that works for them, not for global elites.”
We're resetting the trade imbalance and finally putting America First. pic.twitter.com/OadMeHSn2A
— Markwayne Mullin (@SenMullin) April 7, 2025
The statement appears to be part of a broader effort by the senator to highlight economic wins and reinforce his commitment to nationalist economic principles, a key theme among Republican lawmakers in the lead-up to the 2026 midterm elections.
Mullin’s economic message arrives at a moment of heightened controversy. Just one day before the trade post went live, the senator faced sharp criticism over remarks suggesting that there would be fewer instances of “fake news” if Americans were allowed to “use violence against journalists.”
The comment, made during a public appearance, sparked immediate backlash from press freedom advocates and fellow lawmakers across the aisle. Critics described the remark as reckless and dangerous, especially in an era where journalists continue to face threats and harassment.
Mullin later clarified that his comment was not to be taken literally.
“It was obviously a joke,” Mullin told reporters when pressed on the issue. “I do not condone violence against anyone, especially not members of the press. The point I was trying to make, albeit with sarcasm, was about the frustration many Americans feel over biased reporting.”
Despite the clarification, organizations such as the Committee to Protect Journalists and the Society of Professional Journalists condemned the remark, calling on elected officials to uphold standards of civil discourse and to avoid rhetoric that could incite harm.
Senator Mullin is known for his blunt rhetoric and assertive public stance, which has solidified his support among conservative voters in Oklahoma.
However, his remarks have also attracted criticism, with some considered inappropriate for a sitting member of Congress.
The contrast was evident this week. While promoting his trade and economic agenda, Mullin drew criticism for suggesting that violence against journalists could curb misinformation, a comment he later characterized as a joke.
The episode has prompted renewed scrutiny of his communication style and its potential impact on his effectiveness as a policymaker.
More Articles from Lawyer Monthly
