Native Vote

Former Chairman Bailey Tests the Strength of Native Vote

Levi Rickert, editor-in-chief in Native Currents. Discussion »

TRAVERSE CITY, MICHIGAN – After several months of rigorous campaigning in four counties in upper Michigan's 101st House District, it comes down to today's vote for Derek Bailey.

Today is primary day in Michigan

Derek Bailey Votes at the Platte Township Polling Place

American Indians and other voters in the 101st House District have the unique opportunity to vote for Derek Bailey, former tribal chairman of the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians. Bailey chose not to seek reelection earlier this year so that he could devote his energies to gain a seat in the Michigan Legislature.

Bailey is in the race to secure the Democratic nomination for a Michigan House of Representatives seat in District 101. The current state representative is Republican Ray Franz, who Bailey will face off in the general election if he wins the nomination tonight.

Bailey will be the only American Indian in the Michigan Legislature. Michigan is home to 12 federally recognized tribes.

The 101st House District includes Leelanau, Benzie, Manistee, and Mason counties.

Derek Bailey voted for himself at the Platte Township, Benzie County, Michigan.

He will wait out the vote tonight with supporters at 10495 Riverside Drive in Honor, Michigan 49640.

Results of the race will be updated in Native News Network tomorrow morning.

posted August 7, 2012 2:20 pm edt