Eastern Cherokees to choose a new principal chief this year


Michell Hicks. Photo from Facebook

Members of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians in North Carolina will choose a new leader this year.

Chief Michell Hicks, who has served three terms, decided not to seek re-election. He told WCQS that he wanted to spend more time with his family and explore other career options.

"I just see a transition in my life," Hicks said. "It's time for me to do something different," he added.

The decision prompted five candidates to file for the chief's seat. Included is Patrick Lambert, who ran against Hicks twice and was defeated twice.

Gene “Tunney” Crowe Jr., David Wolfe, Sam Frell Reed and Sam Frell Reed are also in the race. Voters will narrow the field in a primary on June 4 and will make their final choice on September 4.

Get the Story:
Chief candidates weigh in on issues (The Smoky Mountain News 5/6)
Cherokee Chief Won't Seek 4th Consecutive Term (WCQS 5/6)

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