An enrollment dispute has become an issue as the Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians holds its election.

John Gomez Jr., whose family of about 130 people was removed from the tribe, is leading a protest on Saturday, the day of the election. His family is opposed to several council members seeking election.

A different group calling itself Concerned Pechanga People supports most of the current tribal leaders. A letter by the group cited "recent political turmoil" and mentioned council members who "disrupt" council meetings.

Chairman Mark Macarro won't be facing a challenger but he says enrollment is not an issue in the upcoming election.

Get the Story:
Pechanga elections set amid protests (The Riverside Press-Enterprise 7/13)
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Relevant Links:
Pechanga Tribal Disenrollment - http://www.pechanga.info
Bureau-of-Indian-Affairs.com, Disenrollment site - http://www.bureau-of-indian-affairs.com

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