"The Little Shell people will have to pick their own government leadership.

That's what Gov. Brian Schweitzer said last week when asked whether the state of Montana would recognize the Little Shell tribal government headed by John Sinclair or the Little Shell government headed by John Gilbert.

"The Little Shell are recognized as a sovereign Tribe by the state, and they occupy a dignified and central place in the history of Montana and the Northern Plains," reads a statement issued by Schweitzer's office. "The Governor's Office believes that the Little Shell, as a sovereign Tribe, can and must resolve its internal differences without interference from state government."

We strongly agree.

If history is an indicator, the process of making that choice will include more debate and a fair amount of resentment from the "side," not chosen.

What important, critical public policy decisions don't?"

Get the Story:
Editorial: Little Shell's leadership problems are their own to solve (The Great Falls Tribune 3/28)

Also Today:
Splintered Mont. tribe struggles against history (AP 3/27)

Related Stories:
Letter: Leadership turmoil in Little Shell Chippewa Tribe (3/26)
State won't get involved in Little Shell Chippewa dispute (3/24)
Rival Little Shell Chippewa group to swear in leadership (3/19)
Another Little Shell council member resigns position (02/17)
Little Shell council member resigns in protest of chair (2/4)