The Swinomish Indian Tribal Community have announced the candidates who will be advancing to the Feb. 15 general election for Senate Seat 5 after this weekend’s primary.
The candidates are incumbent Tandy Wilbur and Lena Joe, who respectively won 99 and 71 votes. James Bobb, who received 59 votes, will not be included in the general election ballot.
In his objectives letter, published on qyuuqs News, Wilbur stated he is committed to “defending treaty rights, protecting salmon habitats and continuing the climate-resilience work necessary to safeguard first foods, beaches and future generations.” He also called for the Tribe to pursue self-sustainability through food sovereignty, economic growth and responsible development.
During his term, Wilbur has advocated for transparency, accountability and better communication between leadership and tribal members, which he stated has resulted in more clarity and better access to information. Looking forward, accountability continues to be a focus to ensure programs and decisions are actually benefiting the community, he stated, adding he will continue to advocate for expanded addiction prevention, mental health support and cultural wellness programs.
According to Lena Joe’s statement on qyuuqs News, she holds three degrees from Northwest Indian College, including a Bachelor of Arts in Tribal Governance and Business Management, and is pursuing a Master’s in Business Administration. She currently works as a 9th grade Education Student Advocate and serves on various groups including the Tribal Employment Rights Office commission, the Health, Education & Social Services Board and the Fireworks Board, she stated.
If elected, Joe’s goals would be to make herself available to community members, be transparent and open to different opinions, serve her people and let the community hold her accountable.
Luisa Loi is a general assignment reporter for La Conner Community News.
