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Cherokee Nation Council Election Results

The Cherokee Nation held tribal council elections on June 5th, which drew 38 candidates for 8 districts and one at-large seat.

According to the official results, four incumbents were re-elected and four are headed for a runoff including one at-large seat. The runoff will take place on July 24.

Marilyn Vann was one of the candidates who ran for the at-large seat. Her candidacy was challenged because Vann is a Cherokee Freedmen descendent - which prompted much debate within the tribal nation.

Eventually, the Cherokee Nation Supreme Court removed language in its constitution that prohibited Vann and others from running.

Vann, who came in third, says even though she lost, she will continue to work and advocate for Cherokee people.

"I'd like to see additional people voting and participating in the tribe," said Vann.

Tribal Councilors will be sworn in on Aug. 14.

This report was produced by the Oklahoma Public Media Exchange, a collaboration of public media organizations. Help support collaborative journalism by donating at the link at the top of this webpage.

Allison Herrera is a radio and print journalist who's worked for PRX's The World, Colorado Public Radio as the climate and environment editor and as a freelance reporter for High Country News’ Indigenous Affairs desk.
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