A band performed at the tribe's post-election dinner on Tuesday evening. Photo from Lac Courte Oreilles News & Information / Facebook
The Lac Courte Oreilles Band of Lake Superior Chippewa may have violated Wisconsin law with its get out the vote efforts. The tribe provided free food to voters on Tuesday. Prizes were also offered at a wrap-up party that voters were encouraged to attend. Wisconsin law prohibits people from offering “anything of value" in exchange for voting. The state exercises criminal and civil jurisdiction in Indian Country under Public Law 280 but it's not clear who would be charged for allegedly violating the law -- the Sawyer County District Attorney wouldn't comment on a potential investigation. The tribe's get out of the vote page has been removed from the tribe's web site. A cached version encouraged tribal members to make their voices heard at the polls. "There are many issues facing our tribal communities, and it is important for each and every member to make their voice heard," the page stated. "Support those candidates you feel share your values and will fight to preserve and enhance our tribal nations and the identities of our people." Get the Story:
Wis. Tribe Offers Prizes for Voting, Pushes Anti-Walker Group (Media Trackers 11/4)
Tribe may have broken Wisconsin election law with offers of free food, prizes (Wisconsin Reporter 11/5)
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