Oklahoma AG praises economic contributions of Oklahoma’s tribes

Written By: Rachael Schuit

Native Commerce News is sponsored by the American Indian Chamber of Commerce of Oklahoma (AICCO), dedicated to expanding Indian Country commerce across the globe.  

(MUSCOGEE NATION) This month's AICCO Tulsa Chapter Luncheon at River Spirit drew a sold-out crowd as attendees gathered to hear from Oklahoma Attorney General Gentner Drummond, who has also announced his candidacy for the 2026 governor’s race.

While addressing the audience, Drummond acknowledged the significant economic impact of Oklahoma’s Tribes.

“The five Tribes…the economic power and the might that they bring to the state of Oklahoma is significant,” he said.

Drummond highlighted the recent opening of the OKANA Resort and Waterpark in Oklahoma City, a $400 million investment by the Chickasaw Nation.

“We know empirically, from the statistical data we've been given, that the economic impact of that investment in the Oklahoma City market will be $97 million a year,” he added. “That's impactful.”

Drummond also praised the strength of Oklahoma’s tribal nations compared to those in other states and emphasized the role of the American Indian Chamber of Commerce (AICCO).

“Nobody is as organized and collaborative as [our] tribes in the state of Oklahoma,” he said. “It takes [the] American Indian Chamber of Commerce–the connectivity that you bring to each other today–that provides that strength in numbers.”

In addition to highlighting the economic contributions of Oklahoma’s Tribes through entities like OKANA, Drummond recognized their important role in providing healthcare services across the state.

“That's where the Tribes are stepping up. You're providing healthcare and mental healthcare where Oklahoma is failing,” he explained. “I've encouraged the governor and legislative leaders [to] look to the tribes. What are the tribes spending their money on? That's an indication of where we're failing.”

When discussing the importance of voter participation, Drummond was direct.

“There are 400,000 Oklahomans who are affiliated with a tribe, and many of you [are affiliated] with several tribes,” he said. “Yet fewer than 10% of you vote. So, what are you telling politicians in Oklahoma City? That you can ignore the Native American? You must warrior up to vote.”