Ben on Native American Issues: Respecting Tribal Sovereignty
My family has always treasured and respected the unique history and heritage of New Mexico.
I’m proud of my long-standing working relationship with tribal leaders and Native Americans in northern New Mexico. I respect tribal sovereignty, and I understand the important role of tribal and pueblo governments in New Mexico.
As Chairman of the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission, I worked with the commission to adopt a resolution that recognized our government-to-government relationship concerning regulatory processes with sovereign Indian Nations.
As Congressman, I will continue to work on a government-to-government level with the pueblos, the Jicarilla and Mescalero Apache Tribes and the Navajo Nation to protect and strengthen the rights and well-being of Native Americans and their communities.
In Congress I will fight to reverse the trend of President Bush’s budget cuts to the Indian Health Service and Indian Education programs. I will work to fund the Indian Health Service and support legislation that will promote American Indian education at all levels.
I have seen firsthand how economic development benefits tribes, the surrounding communities and the state of New Mexico. In Congress, I will work at the national level to protect the right of tribal governments to protect their economic interests.
I have always supported the sovereignty of Native American tribes and pueblos and I pledge to join the Congressional Native American Caucus and work with fellow House members in partnership with tribal governments.
