The Chippewa Cree Tribe of Montana is voicing support for Sen. Conrad Burns (R-Montana), whose ties to disgraced lobbyist Jack Abramoff have made a big target during an election year.

The tribe's business committee praised Burns for helping to fund Indian education programs, tribal colleges water rights settlements, law enforcement programs and Indian health care. "The recent press about Senator Burns caused us to write this letter of support to recognize and show appreciation for the efforts of the senator and his staff in championing our issues in Indian Country," a statement said.

The tribe belongs to the Montana-Wyoming Tribal Leaders Council, which voted last week to reject a $150,000 donation from Burns. Some tribal leaders said accepting the money would only help Burns distance himself from the Abramoff scandal.

Get the Story:
Chippewa-Cree Council voices support for Burns (The Great Falls Tribune 1/22)

Relevant Links:
Sen. Conrad Burns - http://burns.senate.gov
Montana Republican Party - http://www.mtgop.org
Montana Democratic Party - http://www.montanademocrats.org

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