Record Number of Native American Candidates in Elections

This year marks a significant milestone in electoral history. A record 355 Native American and Indigenous candidates have entered local, state, and federal primary and general elections.

One of the standout figures in this historic movement is former interior secretary Deb Haaland. As of September 13, she is running for the governor position in New Mexico. Her potential victory could mark a groundbreaking moment, as a Native American woman has never held governorship or a seat in the U.S. Senate.

The scope of change extends beyond New Mexico. Former congresswoman Mary Peltola from Alaska and Minnesota’s Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan are also in the running for Senate seats. Success for any of these candidates would break new ground, representing historic representation within the political system.