AZ Tribal Leaders Declare: Biden’s Bold Investments to Shape Indian Country’s Future

Following President Joe Biden’s unexpected withdrawal from the 2024 presidential race on Sunday, tribal leaders in Arizona have commended his tenure and dedication to Indian Country.

Gila River Indian Community Governor Stephen Roe Lewis expressed gratitude on social media. “GRIC deeply appreciates President Biden’s unwavering commitment to Indigenous communities,” he noted.

Biden’s historic investments and support will have a lasting legacy, transforming communities across Indian Country. His exit followed a weekslong pressure campaign from Democratic Party leaders after a poor debate performance against former President Donald Trump.

After exiting the race, Biden endorsed Vice President Kamala Harris as the new Democratic nominee. His administration brought back the White House Council on Native American Affairs and relaunched the White House Tribal Nations Summits.

Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren also commended Biden’s leadership, describing him as a steadfast champion for tribes. “His legacy will be etched in history with hope and grace,” Nygren stated.

According to the White House, Biden’s administration has made record-setting investments in tribal nations through the Investing in America Agenda and the American Rescue Plan.

Significant investments include several Indian Water Rights Settlements across Arizona. The Ak-Chin Indian Community received $44.5 million from the Indian Water Rights Settlement Completion Fund. Meanwhile, the Colorado River Indian Tribes finalized their water rights settlement in May.

April Ignacio, co-founder of Indivisible Tohono, praised Biden’s support for Indigenous communities, citing the appointment of Deb Haaland as Secretary of Interior and the reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act.

Biden has appointed several Indigenous people to top positions. Haaland, from the Laguna Pueblo tribe, became the first Native American to serve in a presidential cabinet as Secretary of the Interior. Bryan Newland, Arlando Teller, Marilynn Malerba, and Charles Sams were also appointed to significant roles.

“We believe Joe Biden’s work in Indian Country will continue to flourish,” Ignacio said, emphasizing Biden’s role in increasing Native representation at the highest levels of government.

With Biden out of the race, Arizona Native Vote Executive Director Jaynie Parrish reminded Native voters of the importance of their vote. “They established a high bar and we challenge any elected official and administration to meet and exceed it,” Parrish stated. She urged every voter to exercise their right, not just for the presidential candidate but for every office down-ballot.