John Morales was re-elected chairman of the Fort Peck Tribes of Montana after being removed from office last year.

Morales, 38, defeated Tom Christian, 52, in an election held on Saturday. He was sworn into office on Monday.

Morales was removed by the tribal council in August 2004 after refusing to sign a pipeline deal that he says is bad for the tribe. He clashed with the council on other issues, including the firing of three employees who were reinstated. Morales said he plans to refire the people.

Get the Story:
Ousted Fort Peck Tribal Chairman re-elected (The Great Falls Tribune 10/31)

Relevant Links:
Fort Peck Tribes - http://www.fortpecktribes.org

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BIA recognizes new chairman of Fort Peck Tribes (06/17)
Ousted Fort Peck chairman appeals removal to BIA (6/16)
Fort Peck council removes chairman from office (6/15)
Fort Peck tribal members oust most of council (6/14)
Fort Peck leadership dispute continues (06/02)
Fort Peck tribal offices closed in internal dispute (05/27)
Chairman of Montana tribe locked out of office (05/25)