Mississippi Choctaw Chief Martin seeks 8th term

Wednesday, January 31, 2007  

Phillip Martin is seeking a record 8th term as chief of the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians.

Martin, 80, was elected to his first term in 1979. He's held the job ever since, overseeing massive growth in the tribe's economy.

Martin was also the first tribal client of disgraced lobbyist Jack Abramoff, who is serving a jail sentence for bank fraud. Martin poured millions into Abramoff's law firms before scandal erupted over high fees and fraudulent schemes.

Martin's next major challenge is an off-reservation casino on the Gulf Coast. He is seeking local and state support for the project.

The tribe will hold its general election June 12.

Get the Story:
Chief seeking 8th term (The Neshoba Democrat 1/31)
Martin to seek 8th term as chief of Miss. Choctaws (AP 1/31)

Relevant Links:
Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians - http://www.choctaw.org

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