Eight nominations made for sub-chief

The St. Regis Mohawk Tribe held nominations Saturday morning for a special election of a sub-chief. The caucus was held at the tribal community building and a total of eight nominations were made for the position.

The sub-chief position up for election was filled at the regular June election, but the winning candidate opted not to be sworn-in, requiring the Tribal Election Board to scramble and come up with an alternative plan. With the membership’s backing, it was agreed that a special election would be held.

Although the May caucus for the same position only turned up two candidates, the special caucus turned up eight. They are: Pamela Brown, Brendan White, Hollis White, Daniel White, Agatha Thompson, Wade James McDonald, Jason McDonald, and Emily Lauzon.

The candidates will have to formerly accept their nomination, as well as prove they meet the candidacy requirements. Each must be at least 30 years of age, not have been convicted of a serious crime, meet residency requirements, be an eligible voter of the St. Regis Mohawk Tribe and be a person of good character and sound judgment. Each candidate must also pass a drug screening.

“We have a number of good candidates for the Sub-Chief position and we are pleased to see this level of participation in the electoral process,” said Katrina Jacobs, Tribal Election Board member. “We encourage eligible voters to participate in the special election and make their voices heard.”

The special election for the 3-year sub-chief position will be held on Saturday, August 23, 2008 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Tribal Community Building. Absentee ballots will be available on Monday, August 11, 2008.