Harney County Judge: "I Will Not Resign"

Harney County Judge Steven Grasty, who helped lead the county through the 41-day armed takeover of the Malheur National Wildlife Refuge, now faces a recall petition.

"Judge Grasty and other county officials have prevented and/or hundred US Citizens the same privileges and rights that he and other officials use and exercise themselves," the petition reads,

The Oregon Secretary of State says they have received the petition along with 566 signatures - more than 444 needed - and are working on verifying them.

If the petition is validated, Judge Grasty - who is basically the chairman of the county commission - will have to resign or face a recall election within 35 days.

Judge Grasty tells Patch: "I have no intention of resigning.

"In the past 48 hours, I have had a tremendous outpouring of support. These people with their petition are entitled to their say. There are many people who support me who are waiting for their chance."

Judge Grasty became the target of some animosity when he demanded that Ammon Bundy and the others who staged an armed takeover of the refuge leave Harney County.