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Cherokee Nation General Election sees local incumbents re-elected to Council
TAHLEQUAH, Okla. — Six incumbents were re-elected to the Council of the Cherokee Nation during the tribe's General Election on Saturday.
The incumbents re-elected include Candessa Tehee of District 2, Joshua Sam of District 7, Melvina Shotpouch of District 10, Kendra McGeady of District 11, Danny Callison of District 15, and at-large Councilor Johnny Jack Kidwell. Newcomer Ashley Grant was also elected to District 5.
The Cherokee Nation Election Commission is set to meet on Monday to certify the results of the 2025 General Election, which unofficially show 7,714 votes.
Newly elected and re-elected Tribal Councilors will be sworn in on August 14.
McGeady won the District 11 race with 614 votes, or more than 58%.
'My heart is overflowing with gratitude to all Cherokees in District 11, my family and my dedicated volunteers. I am honored and humbled that you have chosen me to represent you.'
Kendra McGeady, District 11
McGeady was appointed to the Tribal Council almost a year ago.
'Representing District 11 is a special responsibility,' said McGeady. 'Northeast Oklahoma holds a special place in the hearts of the Cherokee Nation. As our Nation expands services to Cherokees throughout District 11, I will continue to work to ensure our communities have access to transportation, education funding, and better access to quality health care, close to home.
Shotpouch received 376 votes for the District 10 race, more than 70%.
'I am so grateful to have been re-elected to serve for another term on the Cherokee Nation Tribal Council,' said Shotpouch. 'Thank you to everyone who supported and believed in me throughout this journey.'
'Your trust and encouragement mean everything, and I will continue to work hard every day on behalf of our citizens. I will never stop being a strong voice for our communities, protecting our sovereignty, and investing in our culture, language, and future.'
Melvina Shotpouch, District 10
'This victory belongs to all of us. Wado for the opportunity to serve – you have my deepest gratitude, and I look forward to working for you. Together we will build a stronger Cherokee Nation,' said Shotpouch.
In Districts 4 and 9 races, no candidate received the required 50% plus one vote, so voters in those districts will select among the top candidates from the General Election results for a runoff to be held July 26.
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