Rosebud Sioux Tribe returns Rodney Bordeaux to president's post

Monday, September 17, 2018  

The Rosebud Sioux Tribe held a swearing-in ceremony for newly elected leaders earlier this month, with Rodney Bordeaux returning to the president's post for a fourth term.

Bordeaux previously served as chairman for three terms between 2005 and 2012. After a few years away from tribal politics, he ran for election and defeated Louis Wayne Boyd on August 23, according to the results.

“We have been charged with a great opportunity to work for our people and the dedication that it takes to do that will be challenging at times, but we can do this together," Bordeaux said.

After taking the oath of office on September 4, Bordeaux vowed to increase communication between the tribal government and the people it serves. The tribe's communications office maintains an active presence on Facebook and on YouTube, providing regular updates and coverage of council meetings, powwows and other events on the reservation in South Dakota.

Bordeaux also said he will focus on issues facing Native youth. He appointed Tina Spotted Calf-Martinez as his executive assistant to help carry out his mission.

“This office is designed to make a difference for our oyate by expecting accountability and being a great role model, along with a healthy approach,” Spotted Calf-Martinez said of her role in the executive branch. Oyate is the Lakota word for "people" or "nation."

Also taking the oath of office this month was Scott Herman, who was re-elected as Vice President. He defeated William Kindle, who had served as president since 2015.

Tribal citizens also chose representatives for the tribal council in the election last month. The Secretary and Treasurer post were not up for election this year.

The tribe just made news after suing the Trump administration for approving the Keystone XL Pipeline without adequate consultation. The controversial crude oil project comes within "yards" of tribal trust lands and allotted Indian lands, according to the September 9 complaint.