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AUGUST 2, 2000

Indian Country can credit the appearance of Native Americans on the GOP's radar this year to John J Guevremont, a member of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation of Connecticut.

Guevremont drafted the party's platform regarding Native Americans, tribal sovereignty, self-determination, and self-sufficiency. Guevremont is one of two Mashantucket-affiliated representatives attending the Republican National Convention in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, this week.

The other is Laurance Gay, a consultant for the tribe. Gay is not a tribal member.

Like many other tribes who are making their political voices heard with their checkbooks, the Mashantucket tribe has contributed significantly to the Republican party over the years.

According to the Federal Elections Commission, the tribe gave $10,000 for a Republican Senate-House Dinner in 1997, $5,000 to the National Republican Congressional Committee in 1999, and over $250,000 to the Republican National Committee in 1998 and 1999.

Tribal members and employees also contributed tens of thousands of dollars to the failed presidential campaign of tribal-friendly Senator John McCain or Arizona. McCain addressed the convention last night, saying it was time for him to "serve" under the campaign of nominee George W. Bush.

McCain, a Vietnam veteran, also spoke of the history and importance of the military to the United States. However, he did not mention Native American veterans, who have served in every major war in proportions far higher than any other group in the country.

John Guevremont is the Mashantucket tribe's director of governmental affairs. His office is based primarily in Washington, DC.

Relevant Links:
The Republican National Convention - www.gopconvention.com
The Federal Elections Commission - www.fec.gov

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