Oklahoma Senate Suspends Powerful State Senator from Leadership Posts

ralphshortey

The Oklahoma State Senate passed a unanimous resolution on Wednesday afternoon stripping Ralph Shortey’s legislative privileges based on disorderly conduct, after allegations surfaced about his personal relationship involving an underage boy, according to a report by The Oklahoman.

Shortey, a Republican from District 44 in south Oklahoma City, has served in the Oklahoma Legislature since 2010. His positions as vice-chair of the Energy Committee and Subcommittee on Select Agencies of the Appropriations Committee as well as membership on the Retirement and Insurance Committee, Judiciary Committee and Appropriations Committee were immediately suspended.

Shortey must return a state laptop computer and any other state property in his possession. He also lost his State Capitol office on the 4th Floor as well as his Senate reserved parking space.

The Senate resolution also stripped Shortey of his capitol office and parking space.

“This is not a presumption of guilt or innocence. The Oklahoma Senate has full faith that the judicial system will play out appropriately and bring this matter to a lawful conclusion. This resolution reserves the right of the Oklahoma Senate to pursue further action if more facts come to light. It would be inappropriate to comment any further due to the pending investigation,” said Mike Schulz, Senate President Pro Tempore of Altus.

Although he was not expelled by the Oklahoma State Senate, Shortey will continue to draw a salary of nearly $3,200 monthly plus benefits. He will also retain his ability to vote on legislative measures.