- Details
- By Levi Rickert
MESKWAKI SETTLEMENT, Iowa — Senator Bernie Sanders brought his presidential campaign to the Meskwaki Settlement, the home of the Meskwaki Nation (Sac & Fox Tribe of the Mississippi), the only federally recognized tribe in Iowa, on Thursday afternoon. Sanders was touring the state on Thursday in a campaign bus, one month before the 2020 Iowa Democratic caucuses on February 3, 2020.
Sanders told the tribal Meskwaki tribal citizens he is running for president for two main reasons: To defeat Donald Trump and make an economy that can be enjoyed by all--not only wealthy people.
"It is absolutely imperative we defeat Donald Trump, the most dangerous presin in the modern era of this country," said Sanders.
"We need to transform our economy that works for all, not just rich people. Millionaires and billionaires are doing quite well, while ordinary people are working two to three jobs," Sander continued.
He spoke about the living conditions of Native Americans.
"Native Americans have a lower life expectancy than others. The poverty rate for Native Americans is much higher than the average," Sanders commented.
"Here is a promise that comes from my heart, for much too long, the Native Americans have been lied to, treaties have been broken...as president, we will not be informing Native Americans about what is happening, they will be part of the decision-making procerss, Sanders promised.
After his short comments, Sanders participated in a panel of Meskwaki tribal citizens during the townhall. Watch the video below to see the campaign visit:
More Stories Like This
Native News Weekly (August 25, 2024): D.C. BriefsNative News Weekly (August 4, 2024): D.C. Briefs
Federal Government Shutdown Averted: How Native Americans in Congress Voted
CALL TO ACTION: The Truth and Healing Commission on Indian Boarding School Policies Act Needs Immediate Action
Q&A with Outgoing Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland
Can we take a minute to talk about tribal sovereignty?
Sovereignty isn't just a concept – it's the foundation of Native nations' right to govern, protect our lands, and preserve our cultures. Every story we publish strengthens tribal sovereignty.
Unlike mainstream media, we center Indigenous voices and report directly from Native communities. When we cover land rights, water protection, or tribal governance, we're not just sharing news – we're documenting our living history and defending our future.
Our journalism is powered by readers, not shareholders. If you believe in the importance of Native-led media in protecting tribal sovereignty, consider supporting our work today.
Right now, your support goes twice as far. Thanks to a generous $35,000 matching fund, every dollar you give during December 2024 will be doubled to protect sovereignty and amplify Native voices.
No paywalls. No corporate owners. Just independent, Indigenous journalism.
