Edward D. Manuel, a former chairman of the Tohono O’odham Nation, has again been elected chairman, as voters ousted Ned Norris Jr., who has led the nation for eight years.
Manuel and his running mate for vice chairman, Verlon M. Jose, unofficially received 1,838 votes in the general election Saturday.
Chairman Norris and Vice Chairwoman Wavalene M. Romero received 1,625 votes.
The election board still must certify the votes. The new terms start June 12.
In a statement released Thursday, Norris said, “On behalf of myself and Vice Chairwoman Romero, it has been an honor to serve the people of the Tohono O’odham Nation for the last eight years.
“We are proud of what all of us have accomplished together to improve the lives of the O’odham and build a foundation for greater opportunity and prosperity to come.”
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In 2007, Norris defeated Vivian Juan-Saunders. Juan-Saunders was the first woman elected to lead the nation in 2003, with Norris as her vice chairman. But in June 2006, Norris resigned his post.
In 2011, Norris defeated Juan-Saunders for the second consecutive time.
Juan-Saunders and Norris defeated Manuel and Vice Chairman Henry A. Ramon in 2003. Manuel and Ramon had led the nation since 1995.
The Tohono O’odham Nation’s capital is Sells, which is 60 miles southwest of Tucson. The nation, which is the size of Connecticut, stretches across 75 miles of U.S.-Mexico border.
3. Edward D. Manuel
chairman, Tohono O’odham Nation
Ned Norris Jr.
Contact reporter Carmen Duarte at cduarte@tucson.com or at 573-4104. Twitter: @cduartestar
Carmen Duarte
Reporter
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