Taking a break from a half century of tradition, the Alaska Federation of Natives has endorsed Democrat Hillary Clinton for president.
Clinton “has a long record of supporting Alaska Native and American Indian priorities, and has made clear her plans and commitment to continued and authentic engagement,” AFN said in a statement issued during its annual convention in Fairbanks.
AFN said that some board members abstained from voting on the endorsement, because they needed further internal discussions with their groups, but that overall the AFN board voted decisively to endorse Clinton. Board members who abstained from the vote were not identified.
AFN said the decision to back Clinton was based on her demonstrated actions and priorities. “She has committed to continue working directly with us, to honor the special trust relationship between indigenous peoples and the federal government, and to open the door and welcome Native Americans into her administration with respect and a genuine commitment to working together,” AFN said.
