Opinion

McKosato: Obama or Clinton for Indian Country?

Monday, January 28, 2008

"When Gov. Bill Richardson withdrew his name earlier this month from the 2008 Democratic presidential race, perhaps the most disappointed of his supporters were in Indian Country.

So now, with Super Tuesday fast approaching, which candidate are the state's 23 tribes willing to stand behind? Based on the tribal leaders I've talked to, there seems to be only three remaining front runners who have a real shot at getting the Native vote.

Of course, the Native vote has been notoriously Democrat, unless when ticked off by certain Democrats (here's your seat back Rep. Heather Wilson), so the conversation usually starts with Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-N.Y.) and Sen. Barack Obama (D-Ill.). Inevitably, Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) enters the mix.

This was confirmed by the Chairman of the All Indian Pueblo Council, Joe García of Ohkay Owingeh. He has served his pueblo in many capacities over the years, including as governor and lieutenant governor, and he is currently in his second term as the president of the National Congress of American Indians.

Based in Washington, D.C., NCAI is the oldest and largest lobbying organization in the country that advocates for Indian issues. In a recent telephone interview, I asked García who he thought the New Mexico Native vote would throw their support toward."

Get the Story:
Harlan McKosato: Now that Bill's out, it's a tough call for Indian Country (The Santa Fe New Mexican 1/27)

Relevant Links:
Native America Calling - http://www.nativeamericacalling.com