Respect and support tribal
sovereignty and independence

Montana is home to twelve (12) distinct tribal

Nations.  In the Eastern District of Montana,

there are 6 distinct tribal lands.  

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As we know, the history of tribal-U.S. government relations is a sad and tragic one. Its legacy continues to this day.  Most tribes today find themselves in a relationship of dependency on a federal government that does not fully respect them and views them as inferiors.  I find this attitude abhorrent.

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I want to see tribal autonomy repsected and the tribes given the opportunity to develop in their own ways.  I know that all of the tribes would like to be as self-sufficient as possible, but for the foreseeable future they will require federal support in a variety of areas.  If elected to Congress, I will treat tribes as equal sovereigns and ensure that their will and voice is respected.  I will work with the tribes to get policies and funding in place that respects their independence and helps them function as freely as possible.

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In this connection, there is much to be done to deal with the issue of missing and murdered indigenous women in Montana's tribal lands.  We must do all we can to assist the tribes in restoring order, safety, and security on their lands, in a way that respects their soveriengty and ways of their communities.  If elected to Congress, I will make this issue a priority.