David Brainard, the spiritual and political leader of the Confederated Tribes of the Coos, Lower Umpqua and Siuslaw Indians, abruptly resigned his post earlier this month.

Brainard, 64, said he wanted to spend more time with his family after spending three years on the job. He was elected in 2005 to a ten-year term.

Bob Garcia, the chairman of the tribal council, said he was a bit confused by the decision but wasn't totally surprised since Brainard almost resigned last year. Garcia wrote a letter to tribal members last week.

A special election will be held November 9 to replace Brainard.

Get the Story:
Confederated Tribes leader steps down immediately (The Coos Bay World 8/27)