SCOTUS Expands State Power Over Native Land in Okla.

Image copyright: AP [via Al Jazeera]

The Spin

Pro-establishment narrative

This decision is a big victory for the power of Oklahoma state, now able to prosecute non-Natives on Native American territory, and do justice in new jurisdictions. The ruling will also likely reduce the burden of federal prosecutors as the state of Oklahoma becomes able to charge and convict on Tribal land.

Establishment-critical narrative

This ruling is a disappointment for Native lawyers and advocates of Native American rights. The Court has failed in its duty to honor the traditional rights of Native Americans, undermined tribal sovereignty, and highlighted the tension between Oklahoma state and its indigenous members.


Establishment split

CRITICAL

PRO

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