Native American Women Win Historic Firsts in Midterm Elections

Native American women achieved a series of historic electoral victories during the November US midterm elections, winning seats across federal, state, and tribal governments. Deb Haaland became the first Native American woman elected as a state governor in New Mexico, while Peggy Flanagan became the first Native American woman elected to the US Senate representing Minnesota.

At the tribal level, the elections marked a significant shift in leadership. Crystalyne Curley was elected as the first woman president of the Navajo Nation, and Tina Abrams became the first woman president of the Seneca Nation of Indians. Other notable federal gains included the election of Claire Valdez to the US House of Representatives and the reelection of Sharice Davids.

A record 363 Indigenous candidates ran for office nationwide, with at least 180 winning their races. These results represent a breakthrough for Indigenous women who have historically faced barriers to formal political leadership.