Wendsler Nosie Sr., the chairman of the San Carlos Apache Tribe, is no longer on speaking terms with Rep. Ann Kirkpatrick (D-Arizona) due to her support for a controversial land swap that includes a sacred site.

Nosie said the tribe fully supported Kirkpatrick, who was born and raised on the White Mountain Apache Nation, when she was running for Congress. But that changed when she got behind the swap, which would allow Resolution Copper to open a copper mine.

Nosie met with Kirkpatrick to share his concerns about the deal. The swap includes Oak Flats Campground, where Apache tribes harvest acorns and pray.

“Chairman, tell me, how is your religion going to put food on the table?” Kirkpatrick told Nosie, The Hill reported. “Tell me how your religion is going to help the children getting abused by their parents. How is your religion going to turn the bed sheets of your elders?”

"Ann, don’t even go there," Nosie said in response.

Nosie said the tribe won't support Kirkpatrick's bid for re-election. About 20 percent of the population in her district is Native American.

“She gave Indian Country a great hope,” Nosie told the paper. “And now that’s wiped clean. Another politician. Another politician that played us good.”

Sen. John McCain (R-Arizona) and Sen. Jon Kyl (R-Arizona) also support the land swap.

Get the Story:
Arizona lawmakers spark ire of Apaches over copper mine, land exchange (The Hill 5/11)

Copper Basin Jobs Act :
H.R.4880 | S.409