Congressman Markwayne Mullin said Wednesday he's on his way home after trying to help stranded Americans get out of Afghanistan.
The Washington Post reports the Tulsa native tried to go on a rogue rescue mission and threatened U.S. ambassador and embassy staff.
Mullin posted on Instagram and said he was not missing, but helping get people out of Afghanistan.
"That absolutely is a problem," said Alicia Andrews, chair of the Oklahoma Democratic Party. "But there is a more productive way that he could have done it."
Andrews said she doesn't believe what Mullin did is right.
"I think that it was a reelection ploy," she said. "I think it was a crusade to make sure that he's making headlines so that he stays relevant in time for re-election. And I think that that's irresponsible and shameful."
Ronda Vuillemont-Smith, chair of the Tulsa County Republican Party disagrees.
"I don't see anything political about it," she said. "I think that he was very serious about not leaving Americans behind in Afghanistan. And so, he did everything he could within his means to make that happen."
According to the Washington Post, Mulling asked for help sending a large amount of money to Tajikistan to hire a helicopter to rescue five Americans -- a woman and her four kids.
His request was reportedly denied. An anonymous U.S. official told the post the congressman threatened those who told him no.
"He was doing what President Biden should be doing, which is getting Americans out of Afghanistan," said Vuillemont-Smith. "I am very proud of him."
"Once again, Oklahoma's making national news for something embarrassing," said Andrews.
NewsChannel 8 reached out to all of Oklahoma's U.S. representatives.
Rep. Tom Cole was the only to provide a statement:
“I am glad to hear Representative Mullin is safe and wish him continued safety during his travels home.