DEVELOPING | October 16, 2026 | Truth in Focus
LAME DEER, Montana — The Northern Cheyenne Tribe announced dates for a special presidential election on October 16, adding a new development to the continuing dispute over who holds the office of Tribal President.
The notice, signed by Tribal Secretary Alicia Cano, describes the presidential office as vacant. It schedules a primary election for November 24, 2026 and a general election for December 29, 2026. Candidates must file by October 23 at 4:30 p.m. and pay a $500 nonrefundable filing fee.
Gene Small disputes the removal
During September 30 proceedings, the Tribal Council voted to remove Gene Small from office and appointed Vice President Ernest Littlemouth Sr. to act as president. Small disputes the validity of the Council action and maintains that he remains president.
In an October 13 public statement, Small also alleged disruptions to tribal government communications, computer systems, financial processing and payments to service providers. Truth in Focus has reported those concerns with attribution; the extent, causes and responsibility for any disruptions have not been independently established.
Election announcement does not resolve legal dispute
The October 16 notice announces an election process but does not itself resolve whether the claimed vacancy was lawfully created. Questions remain about the September 30 removal proceedings, any controlling court orders and whether the Bureau of Indian Affairs has made a relevant determination.
Truth in Focus has contacted the BIA seeking clarification. A response or determination concerning this election has not been verified for this report. Tribal election procedures and federal roles should not be assumed to be identical to procedures for constitutional amendments.
We will follow material, documented developments while continuing to distinguish official actions, competing positions and independently established facts. Publication of a Council notice does not amount to endorsement of its legal position; likewise, reporting the arguments made by Small does not establish their validity.
Related reporting
- October 16 election notice and candidate filing requirements
- October 13 statement by Gene Small concerning tribal services and vendor payments
- September 30 removal hearing and procedural questions
Truth in Focus welcomes relevant orders, documents, corrections and statements from the Council, Gene Small and other officials. Reporting contact: truthifocus@gmail.com.
By Steven Bullcoming Haworth | Truth in Focus