Cherokee Nation seeing increase in turnout for second election

Wednesday, October 5, 2011  

Members of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma continue to vote in a second election for principal chief.

The results of the first election between Chad Smith, who was the incumbent, and Bill John Baker, a tribal councilor, were thrown out due to uncertainty. Then a federal judge and the Obama administration got involved when the tribe decided to remove the Freedmen, who are the descendants of African slaves, from the rolls.

Extended voting is now taking place under a court order. So far, tribal officials say more than 10,000 people have cast ballots, an increase from the first election in June.

Balloting will continue until October 8.

Get the Story:
Voting Continues In Cherokee Chief Repeat Election (News on 6 10/4)

Cherokee Nation Supreme Court Decision:
Cherokee Nation Registrar v. Nash (August 22, 2011)

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