Muscogee (Creek) Nation Principal Chief James Floyd announced Wednesday he would not seek re-election to the post he has held since 2015. In a written statement provided to citizens and
Muscogee (Creek) Nation Principal Chief James Floyd announced Wednesday he would not seek re-election to the post he has held since 2015.
In a written statement provided to citizens and members of the National Council, Chief Floyd said:
“This difficult decision was made after much deliberation with my family, supporters and friends. My heart and efforts will always be directed toward the best future for our Nation and citizens.
“However, at this time, I feel my highest priority is to now dedicate quality time to my family who has sacrificed and given so much for me to serve you these past four years.”
Chief Floyd attributes his success to the hard work and dedication by his Cabinet members, staff and administration, as well as cooperation by members of the National Council.
Some of those projects include developing a comprehensive master plan for a long-term vision for the Nation, stabilizing the financial outlook for the Nation’s health care system and for the successful passage of the Stigler Act Amendments to ensure the retention of allotted lands for citizens.
“While these four years have not been without trials, I have enjoyed providing the leadership to guide the direction and progress for the fourth largest Nation in the United States,” the chief said.
“It has been my honor and privilege to serve as Principal Chief of the Muscogee (Creek) Nation. I am humbled by the trust and encouragement shown by our Nation as I have worked to stabilize our financial outlook and to improve the service programs for our 87,000 citizens.”
Chief Floyd pledges to continue his work through the end of his term in December 2019 and to provide a smooth transition to the new leader selected by citizens.
Muscogee (Creek) Nation is the fourth largest tribe in the United States with more than 87,000 members.
Headquartered in Okmulgee, the Nation employs 4,000 workers with a $290 million operating budget throughout its business lines of hospitality and gaming, community healthcare, property development and information technology.