Full Breakdown
Chippewa Cree Tribe Secures Majority Native Voting District in Chouteau County
12/19/2025, 1:24:56 PM
Legal Settlement Reshapes Election Dynamics
A recent federal court settlement has established a Native-majority voting district in Chouteau County, Montana, significantly altering the electoral landscape for the Chippewa Cree Tribe. The agreement, approved by the U.S. District Court for the District of Montana, resolves a lawsuit filed in August by the Chippewa Cree Tribe and two Native voters. The plaintiffs argued that the county's at-large election system diluted Native voting power and violated the Voting Rights Act. The settlement replaces the previous system with a district-based structure, allowing the tribe to elect a representative for the first time in over a decade.
Background of the Lawsuit
The lawsuit was initiated by Ken Morsette, a citizen of the Chippewa Cree Tribe, who claimed that the at-large voting system undermined the political power of Native voters in Chouteau County, where nearly 18% of the population identifies as Native American. The settlement creates District 1, which encompasses the Rocky Boy’s Reservation and has a voting-age population that is 63% Native. This change means that only residents of District 1 will vote for their commissioner, contrasting sharply with the previous system where the majority of voters in the other districts were 93% White.
Implications for Representation
The settlement is seen as a significant step toward enhancing representation for Native Americans in local governance. Harlan Gopher Baker, Chairman of the Chippewa Cree Tribe, expressed optimism about the changes, stating, “It has been more than a decade since we have had a Native voice in county politics.” The new district will hold its first election in June 2026, with the elected commissioner expected to take office in early 2027.
Broader Impact and Future Considerations
Samantha Blencke, managing attorney with the Native American Rights Fund, highlighted the potential broader implications of this settlement, stating, “This is huge. It shows that counties will do the right thing and move toward compliance with the Voting Rights Act.” The settlement may inspire similar actions in other counties across Montana, as it sets a precedent for addressing minority representation in local elections.
Criticism & Opposition
While the settlement has been welcomed by tribal leaders, it is important to note that this is not the first legal challenge to at-large voting systems in Montana. Previous lawsuits, such as one in 1986 against Big Horn County, have also sought to address similar issues of representation. Critics may argue that while this settlement is a positive step, it reflects a broader systemic issue regarding the representation of Native Americans in local governance.
Verbatim Quotes
- “We’re pleased that the county did the right thing in giving the Chippewa Cree Tribe a chance to elect a representative to the Board of Commissioners,” — Harlan Gopher Baker, Chippewa Cree Tribe Chairman
- “The settlement replaces the at-large system that previously diluted the Native vote, and it replaces it with a district-based structure,” — Samantha Blencke, Managing Attorney, Native American Rights Fund
- “For the first time in potentially more than a decade, the tribe will have an opportunity to elect their candidate of choice and have a voice at the table,” — Samantha Blencke
This settlement marks a pivotal moment for the Chippewa Cree Tribe and sets a significant precedent for Native American voting rights in Montana.