Politics

Senate candidates support federal recognition for Lumbee Tribe





The two candidates for Senate in North Carolina support federal recognition for the Lumbee Tribe.

Sen. Kay Hagan (D-North Carolina) has sponsored bills to recognize the tribe. Her opponent, House Speaker Thom Tillis (R), also supports the effort.

During the during the height of the termination era in the 1950s, Congress passed a law that described the Lumbees as "Indians." But it denied them the benefits associated with federal status.

The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, whose leaders oppose recognition for the Lumbee Tribe, is supporting Tillis in the race.

Get the Story:
Tribe wields huge leverage in NC race (The Hill 6/25)

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