Politics
Nez Perce woman wins election in Washington


Claudia Kauffman, a member of the Nez Perce Tribe of Idaho, won election to the Washington State Senate.

Kauffman, a Democrat, is the first Native woman to ever serve in the Legislature. ''I want to contribute to a broader perspective in the state Senate,'' she told Indian Country Today.

Kauffman has a long history in Indian affairs in Washington. She serves as intergovernmental affairs liaison for the Muckleshoot, has worked for the United Indians of All Tribes Foundation and has been a consultant to the Oglala Sioux Tribe.

Get the Story:
Claudia Kauffman makes history in Washington state (Indian Country Today 11/17)

Related Stories:
Indian lawmaker finds racism alive in Washington (11/09)
Nez Perce woman ahead in bid for Washington Senate (11/8)
Another Seattle paper backs Nez Perce woman (10/20)
Seattle Times endorses Nez Perce woman in primary (09/15)
Indian lawmaker cleared in ethics investigation (08/25)
Indian lawmaker says bill won't exclude tribes (04/11)
Tulalip tribal member re-elected in Washington (11/03)
Indian candidates take the next step in politics (10/25)
Indian lawmaker challenged over tribal support (10/20)
Indian lawmaker wants courses in tribal studies (01/27)
Indian lawmaker in Wash. provides hope to students (01/09)