CLAREMORE – Cherokee Nation citizen Kevin Easley Jr. was elected to represent Tribal Council District 14 in the tribe’s 2023 General Election held June 3.
According to unofficial results from the CN Election Commission, Easley won with 846 votes (74.93%) over opponents Warren Murray with 190 votes (16.83%) and Carrie Ann Vargas with 93 votes (8.24%).
The current councilor, Keith Austin, is terming out this year in the district that encompasses a majority of Rogers County.
In a Cherokee Phoenix questionnaire, Easley said he ran for the seat because of “recent legal events” that have impacted the tribe’s sovereignty.
“I believe I am uniquely situated as an attorney and litigator to assist the Tribal Council in authoring and enacting legislation to take the fight to those who challenge our sovereignty daily,” he said. “I have advocated for my clients and the Cherokee people in state, federal and tribal courts across Oklahoma before and after the landmark McGirt decision. I am ready to take my skills as an advocate and shift that advocacy for the constituents of District 14.”
In his new role, Easley hopes to enhance funding of scholarships for CN students in the higher education and trade degrees.
“I am proud of what the Cherokee Nation has done so far in support of higher education through Cherokee Nation scholarships. I was a recipient of that scholarship in undergraduate and law school,” he said.
He also intends to focus efforts on expanding health care services and helping elders through tribal housing programs.
All results are unofficial until certified by the Elected Commission. Candidates have June 5-7 for recount requests.
