Link to story: https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/how-a-historic-endorsement-from-oklahomas-5-largest-tribes-could-affect-the-governors-race
The Five Tribes of Oklahoma took an unprecedented step last month by endorsing a candidate in the state governor’s race: Democrat Joy Hofmeister, who is challenging Republican incumbent Gov. Kevin Stitt.
Leaders from the Five Tribes — the Cherokee, Chickasaw, Muscogee (Creek), Choctaw, and Seminole Nations — praised Hofmeister’s commitment to tribal sovereignty and desire to work with the 39 federally recognized tribes in the state “for the betterment of all Oklahomans.”
Chuck Hoskin Jr., principal chief of the Cherokee Nation said he believes this is the most important governor’s race in Oklahoma history.
“If we did not endorse in this race, if we didn’t do everything we can to beat Kevin Stitt, I think that’s malpractice on our part,” he told the PBS NewsHour. “I think it’s a dereliction of our duty. I think we’re duty-bound to see this governor as [being as] close to an existential threat as you can and to do something about it.”
The move to oppose Gov. Stitt, a citizen of the Cherokee Nation, is the latest sign of division between the state’s tribal nations and the governor. The tribes have clashed with the governor over tribal gaming compacts, jurisdiction and tribal sovereignty.
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