Choctaw Nation Chief Gary Batton issued a statement Friday ahead of President Donald Trump’s expected visit to Durant next week, highlighting the significance of the visit while clarifying that hosting the event does not constitute an endorsement.
Trump is scheduled to hold a midterm rally Thursday, Oct. 1, at the Choctaw Event Center in Durant. Doors are scheduled to open at 2 p.m., with the event beginning at 6 p.m.
RELATED: President Trump to hold midterm rally in Oklahoma
Batton said the visit will mark the third time the Choctaw Nation has welcomed a sitting U.S. president to its reservation.
“This marks the third time the Choctaw Nation has had the honor of welcoming a sitting U.S. President to our reservation,” Batton said.
Batton said the Nation hopes Trump’s visit provides an opportunity for the president to learn more about its work serving tribal members and communities across southeastern Oklahoma.
“We hope his visit provides an opportunity to learn more about the work we do as a sovereign nation to serve our tribal members and contribute to the well-being of communities throughout southeast Oklahoma,” Batton said.
Choctaw Nation says hosting rally does not imply endorsement
Batton also clarified that the Trump 47 Committee is renting the Choctaw Event Center in the same way other private organizations can rent the facility.
“The Trump 47 Committee is renting our facility, just as any private organization may. Hosting an event at a Choctaw Nation venue does not imply support for or endorsement of any group, individual, or political campaign by the Choctaw Nation or its elected officials,” Batton said.
Batton also thanked local, state and federal officials helping prepare for the event.
“We appreciate the cooperation and partnership of local, state, and federal officials as they assist in preparing for this event,” Batton said.
Those interested in attending the rally can register for up to four tickets per signup through the event’s registration page.