McCurtain County Sheriff Outvoted By Bruce Shirley

An Oklahoma sheriff who gained attention across the state for controversial comments caught on a recording, lost big Tuesday night.

In McCurtain County, Sheriff Kevin Clardy is out.

In Tuesday's primary, he faced two challengers and only managed to garner less than 19% of the votes.

The county gained national attention in 2023 following a scandal involving incumbent Kevin Clardy.

He and other county leaders were caught on audio tape, talking about how they'd kill and bury two local journalists.

The recordings also captured now-former County Commissioner Mark Jennings making racist comments--sparking protests and public outcry.

While Commissioner Jennings resigned, Clardy refused.

Governor Stitt then called for an investigation in April of last year.

Months later the AG's office announced a state probe into the embattled sheriff found no evidence of criminal acts.

In a letter to the Governor, Attorney General Gentner Drummond wrote in part, “To the extent you remain committed to seeing Sheriff Clardy removed from office, I suggest you appeal to the men and women responsible for electing him." And, "The voters of McCurtain County will have the final say over who will serve them as Sheriff.”