Opinion
Ron Allen: Why this Republican supports Kerry


"I am an American Indian, I am a Republican and I'm supporting John Kerry for president. This was not an easy decision for me. However, after a great deal of deliberation, I believe this is the right decision for Indian Country.

In the past, I supported the Bush administration. After four years, I am terribly disappointed by their broken promises and lack of support. This administration has not advanced our sovereignty or treaty rights. This administration has not respected our unique "government-to-government" relationship. This administration has not assisted tribes in achieving our goals of self-governance, self-reliance. It has not addressed the vital needs for our communities -- health care, jobs, housing, transportation, protection of our natural resources and public safety.

Kerry has genially focused on these issues while in the Senate and I believe he will continue to do so as president."

Get the Story:
Ron Allen: Kerry will address Indian concerns (The Seattle Post-Intelligencer 10/26)

Relevant Links:
Jamestown S'Klallam Tribe - http://www.jamestowntribe.org

Related Stories:
Domenici: Navajos 'out of touch' for Dem support (10/25)
Navajos see hope in a Kerry administration (10/25)
White House wonders why Indians not receptive (10/25)
House rivals both win backing of Navajo council (10/21)
Navajo Nation council nearly endorses Renzi rival (10/20)
Navajo Nation council endorses Kerry for president (10/20)
Renzi wins endorsement of Navajo Nation Council (10/19)
Ron Allen, Wilma Mankiller: Bush too little, too late (10/15)
Navajo council asked to choose Renzi over Babbitt (09/14)
Kerry campaign counting on Native American support (08/10)
Bush blasted for response on sovereignty (8/9)
Kerry pledges support for Indian Country (8/9)
Kerry touts agenda of inclusion at UNITY (8/6)
Kerry to focus on Indian issues during Southwest trip (8/5)
Navajo Nation voters chose Kerry in Ariz. primary (2/12)
Navajo president attends Kerry rally in N.M. (2/3)
Kennedy meets with tribal leaders to promote Kerry (2/2)
Democrats turn to states with key Indian votes (1/28)
Democrat presidential hopefuls eye Indian voters (11/18)