Mescalero Apache elect leaders

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 8, 2001

Voters of the Mescalero Apache Nation of New Mexico went to the polls on Tuesday to elect a new slate of leaders.

Mark Chino, son of the late and former leaders Wendell Chino, was elected President. He beat Sara Misquez, who was seeking re-election.

Ferris Palmer was elected vice president. Gregory Mendez, Raymond Kirgan, Michaelene Ahidley and Sandra Platero were elected to the council.

The tribe has undergone political turmoil since the elder Chino died in 1998. Various leaders have been recalled and there have been regular efforts to unseat others.

The tribe is currently refusing to settle a casino lawsuit with Attorney General Patricia Madrid.

Get the Story:
Mescaleros Pick Chino Again (The Albuquerque Journal 11/8)

Related Stories:
N.M. casino settlement blocked (9/19)
Watchdog group wants Chino investigation (5/29)
FBI was investigating Wendell Chino (5/24)
Ousted councilor re-elected (11/10)
Recall effort dealt setback (10/10)
Activists urge recall of Mescalero leader (09/29)
Critic refuses to speak (08/10)
Tribe goes after critic (08/07)
Feds investigate casino (05/03 )