TAHLEQUAH, Okla. (AP) — The filing period has ended for candidates seeking offices with the Cherokee Nation.
Four candidates have filed for principal chief, including incumbent Principal Chief Bill John Baker; former Chief Chad Smith; and Charlie Soap, the widow of former Chief Wilma Mankiller. Will Fourkiller is the fourth candidate.
Incumbent Deputy Chief S. Joe Crittenden is among three candidates for the deputy chief's position. He will be opposed by Lee Keener and Julia Coates.
Candidates also filed for various seats on the Tribal Council.
The tribe's general election is June 27th. A runoff election, if necessary, is scheduled for July 25th.