Full Breakdown
Hochul Vetoes Bill to Recognize Montaukett Indian Nation, Sparking Outrage
12/23/2025, 12:24:16 PM
Overview of the Veto
New York Governor Kathy Hochul has vetoed a bill aimed at restoring state recognition to the Montaukett Indian Nation, marking her fourth rejection of similar efforts. The veto, issued late on December 19, 2025, has drawn significant backlash from tribal leaders and local lawmakers, who argue that the decision perpetuates a historical injustice stemming from a controversial 1910 court ruling that declared the Montaukett tribe "disintegrated."
Historical Context
The Montaukett Indian Nation, once a recognized tribe in New York, had its status revoked in 1910 by Judge Abel Blackmar, who ruled that the tribe no longer functioned as a governmental unit. This ruling has been criticized as discriminatory and has left the Montaukett people without formal recognition for over a century. Efforts to restore this recognition have repeatedly stalled, with Hochul's latest veto being the seventh such instance in a decade.
Legislative Support and Veto Justification
The bill had garnered bipartisan support, passing the state Assembly unanimously and the Senate with a 59-1 vote. However, Hochul cited "outstanding questions and issues concerning the Montaukett’s eligibility for recognition according to traditional criteria" as her rationale for the veto. Critics, including Sandi Brewster-Walker, executive director of the Montaukett Nation, have condemned this reasoning as ignorant of Native American history and an upholding of a "racist ruling."
Reactions from Lawmakers and Tribal Leaders
Local lawmakers, including Assemblyman Tommy John Schiavoni, expressed disappointment, stating that there has been broad support for reinstating recognition of the Montaukett Nation, which they believe was wrongfully stripped over a century ago. Brewster-Walker described the veto as "inhumane and cruel," emphasizing the emotional toll it has taken on the Montaukett community, which has invested years in advocacy for recognition.
Official Statements & Responses
In her veto message, Hochul reiterated her commitment to working with the Montaukett community but maintained that the tribe had not provided sufficient documentation to support its claims for recognition. The Montaukett leaders countered that they had submitted all necessary information and accused the governor's office of failing to review it adequately.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics of Hochul's decision argue that her administration's lack of understanding of the Montaukett's historical context has led to a failure to recognize their sovereignty. Brewster-Walker and other tribal leaders have called for a reevaluation of the state's approach to Native American recognition, asserting that the Montaukett Nation's historical rights must be acknowledged and respected.
What's Next
The Montaukett Indian Nation plans to continue its advocacy efforts, with leaders expressing determination to restore their recognition in the upcoming legislative sessions. The ongoing dialogue around this issue highlights the broader challenges faced by Native American tribes in securing recognition and rights within state frameworks.
Verbatim Quotes
- “The governor just doesn’t get it — she lacks an understanding of Native American history and is upholding an illegal, racist ruling,” — Sandi Brewster-Walker, Executive Director of the Montaukett Nation
- “For years, there has been broad support for a viable solution for reinstating recognition by New York State to the Montauketts — recognition that was wrongfully stripped from them over 100 years ago,” — Assemblyman Tommy John Schiavoni
This veto not only affects the Montaukett Indian Nation but also raises questions about the state's commitment to addressing historical injustices faced by Native American communities.
