The Spirit Lake Nation and the Turtle Mountain Band of Chippewa Indians are criticizing Rep. Kevin Cramer (R-North Dakota) for comments he made at a meeting with Indian women earlier this week.

Cramer, a new member of Congress, disparaged tribal governments and tribal courts and he questioned the constitutionality of S.47, the Violence Against Women Reauthorization Act of 2013. The bill, which he supported, recognizes tribal jurisdiction over non-Indians.

Congressmen Cramer reportedly stated that he is now afraid to enter an Indian Reservation for fear of prosecution and unfair treatment in the Tribal Court system. Mr. Cramer's remarks clearly stem from a lack of understanding of the legislation," the Spirit Lake Nation said in a statement that was posted by The Grand Forks Herald.

The Turtle Mountain Band responded with a letter to Cramer that was posted by Last Real Indians. "​The statements that were made were not only derogatory but lack ineffective leadership qualities that people of North Dakota and Tribes believe you divulged during your campaign," the tribe said.

Melissa Merrick, a member of the Spirit Lake Nation, posted her account about the meeting on Last Real Indians.

Get the Story:
Apology not accepted: Spirit Lake Tribal Council denounces remarks by Rep. Kevin Cramer (The Grand Forks Herald 3/29)
Turtle Mountain Chippewa Tribe Official Response to Kevin Cramer (GOP Congressman) (Last Real Indians 3/29)

Related Stories:
Rep. Cramer wants to apologize for meet with Indian women (3/29)
Melissa Merrick: Rep. Cramer of North Dakota attacks women (3/28)