A city council member in Oklahoma resigned from her position after controversial comments she made on Facebook resurfaced. Norman City Councilwoman Bree Montoya stepped down at a scheduled meeting this week. According to reports, Montoya suggested another individual end their life in a comment made on her now-deleted Facebook page. “Former Councilwoman Bree Montoya resigned on Tuesday after comments surfaced from June where she told a Facebook user ‘put a gun in your mouth and pull the trigger,’” FOX 25 anchor Grant Palmer stated.
“I have served this community since 2008, and I am ready to pursue other interests. Effective immediately, I am resigning from councilmember of Ward 3. Thank you, Ward 3; It’s been an honor to serve,” Montoya said during the meeting. After announcing her resignation, the audience applauded as she left the chambers. Mayor Stephen Holman later emphasized the importance of free speech, calling it “fundamental to our democracy” while noting that city council meetings are intended for “respectful debate.” The mayor did not directly address Montoya’s comments but reiterated expectations for mutual respect during discussions.
Screenshots of Montoya’s remarks circulated online before her resignation. She later issued an apology. Montoya resigned voluntarily and was not compelled to do so by the city. A statement from Norman officials clarified that council members, as elected officials, are protected under the First Amendment and cannot face disciplinary action for exercising free speech. KOCO 5 contacted Montoya but received no response.
