By AP
Tahlequah, OK – New election for Cherokee chief set for Sept. 24
TAHLEQUAH, Okla. (AP) The head of one of the nation's largest American Indian tribes has scheduled a new election for principal chief for Sept. 24.
The Cherokee Supreme Court ordered a new election after deciding it was impossible to determine with any certainty who won a June 25 election between Principal Chief Chad Smith and longtime councilman Bill John Baker. As chief, Smith set the date for a new election.
Smith said Friday he believes the timeframe gives the Election Commission and Tribal Council a chance to address any issues and to have an election quickly.
Baker says he's pleased that Smith has set the new date. He said having the election in the next two months will allow tribal members to put the controversy of the disputed election behind them.