Politics

Muscogee Nation voters oust George Tiger as principal chief

Monday, November 9, 2015

James Floyd. Photo from Facebook

Voters of the Muscogee Nation of Oklahoma have chosen a new leader.

Unofficial results from the tribe's election on Saturday showed a landslide victory for James Floyd. He defeated incumbent George Tiger with 62 percent of the vote.

"I know that if we work together, united as Muscogee people, we will improve our circumstances and create a brighter future for our nation," Floyd said on Facebook. "I know we can elevate our nation, not just in how the systems work, but in our dignity, respect, cooperation and care for each other."

The outcome means Tiger, a former speaker of the Muscogee National Council, will be leaving office after just one term. He ran into controversy after a consulting deal he made with a rival tribe's casino plan became public.

George Tiger. Photo from Facebook

"As has been my philosophy we must support our next chief. I wish him the best and my office will be open to assist in the transition," Tiger said on Facebook. "I will be leaving knowing that James will see a improved and progressive MCN and in a lot better shape than what I inherited."

Floyd will be sworn into office on January 4, 2016.

Get the Story:
Unofficial Muscogee Creek Nation election results reveal a new chief (KTUL 11/8)
George Tiger ousted as Creek Nation chief (The Tulsa World 11/8)
Tiger Loses Creek Nation Re-Election Bid, Unofficial Results Show (News on 6 11/7)
‘Elections in Native America are complicated’ (NonDoc 11/6)
Creek Nation to elect chief Saturday (The Muskogee Phoenix 11/4)