O'Neil Darden. Photo from LinkedIn

The Chitimacha Tribe of Louisiana has a new leader.

O'Neil Darden was elected to serve a two-year term as chairman of the tribe. He defeated John P. Darden, Sr.., who was the incumbent, for the post.

"I am honored to serve as the new chairman and look forward to leading the Chitimacha Tribe and its work to better the lives of its members," the new leader said in a press release quoted by KATC. "I will focus on endeavors that create strong opportunities for the tribe, healthcare for our members, education for our children and further advancing tribal operations."

Darden is a newcomer to tribal politics. He worked for the tribal government between 1994 and 1998 and then moved to the Cypress Bayou Casino & Hotel, where he rose to the position of director of sales and catering up until his election last month, according to his LinkedIn profile.

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Chitimacha Tribe of Louisiana elects new chairman (KATC 8/18