Oregon's nine federally recognized are endorsing Sen. Gordon Smith (R-Oregon), a member of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee, in his bid for re-election in 2008.
In a joint statement, tribal leaders cited Smith's commitment to Indian issues. Individual tribes said he helped advance health, education and environmental projects.
"Being our hometown senator, Smith has been very accessible to the Umatilla Tribe, but I also know that every Oregon Tribe has gained tangible benefits thanks to his leadership," said Umatilla Chairman Antone Minthorn.
As a member of the Indian Affairs Committee, Smith has spoken openly about his son's suicide and has advocated for Native youth suicide programs.
Get the Story:Oregon tribes unite to endorse Smith (KTVZ 5/14) $rl Sen. Gordon Smith - http://www.senate.gov/~gsmith
