Democrats seek Indian votes and Indian candidates

Friday, March 14, 2008  

Democrats say 2008 will be a record year for Indian participation in their party.

Six Indians have been appointed to serve on committees for the Democratic National Convention in Denver in August. And the party has two Indian superdelegates -- Frank LaMere, a member of the Winnebago Tribe of Nebraska, and Kalyn Free, a member of the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma.

"It’s an exciting time to be a Native American and take our place in the political process of the U.S.," Laura Harris, a member of the Comanche Nation of Oklahoma, tells High Country news.

In addition to seeking Indian votes, Democrats have been recruiting Indian candidates through an organization founded by Free. INDN's List counts 64 American Indians and Alaska Natives in 14 state legislatures.

Get the Story:
Dems reach out to Native Americans (High Country News 3/13)

Abourezk: Democrats have two Indian superdelegates (3/6)