Leaders of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma will meet on Friday to discuss the upcoming special election for principal chief.

The tribe's Supreme Court threw out the results of the vote between incumbent chief Chad Smith and challenger Bill John Baker. Tribal leaders will consider changes to election laws in hopes of avoiding future problems.

The tribe also will discuss the appointment of a new member of the Cherokee Nation Election Commission. The chairman resigned after the first election, saying his reputation was being sullied in the media.

Separately, the remaining four members of the commission are meeting today to discuss the vacancy.

Get the Story:
Cherokee council to meet, discuss election laws (AP 7/26)
Cherokee Election Commission could soon have fifth member (The Tulsa World 7/26)

Cherokee Nation Supreme Court Decision:
In the Matter of 2011 General Election (July 21, 2011)

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