A Native American news publication recently released audio recordings of Senate candidate Tim Sheehy, a Montana Republican endorsed by former President Donald Trump, using stereotypes about Indigenous people. Char-Koosta News, the official publication of the Flathead Indian Reservation, published recordings on its website of Sheehy making racial comments about members of the Crow Reservation in November. In one audio clip from a campaign fundraiser, Sheehy can be heard making insensitive remarks about Indigenous people, sparking controversy and calls for an apology.
In another clip from a campaign event in Hamilton, Sheehy discussed his experience riding a horse in the Crow Fair parade, an annual gathering on the reservation. He described the crowd as tough and mentioned Coors Light cans being thrown by members. Sheehy’s campaign did not deny the authenticity of the recordings, with a spokesperson stating that the candidate works with and bonds with Crow members through ranching activities. However, community leaders and advocates have condemned Sheehy’s comments as disrespectful and offensive.
Char-Koosta News also shared additional recordings from events in Superior and Helena, where Sheehy made further remarks about Indigenous people on the Crow Reservation. The chairman of the Rocky Mountain Tribal Leaders Council, representing 11 tribes in the region, called on Sheehy to apologize for his comments. The chairman expressed disappointment in Sheehy’s derogatory statements and emphasized that Native Americans are not to be used as jokes or stereotypes.
The controversy surrounding Sheehy’s comments comes as he prepares to face off against Democratic Senator Jon Tester in the upcoming election. Trump endorsed Sheehy in February, praising him as an American hero and successful businessman. The Senate race in Montana is viewed as pivotal for Republicans seeking to gain control of the Senate. With a significant Native American population in the state, politicians are vying for their support and aiming to address their concerns.
The situation highlights the importance of respecting and acknowledging Indigenous communities in political discourse. Native American voters play a crucial role in elections, and their voices should be heard and valued by candidates. Sheehy’s remarks have stirred backlash and raised questions about his understanding of and commitment to addressing the issues facing Indigenous people in Montana. As the election approaches, it remains to be seen how Sheehy’s comments will impact his campaign and relationship with voters in the state.
