Dear Shoshone-Bannock Tribal Members, 

Election Day is Tuesday, November 3, 2026. Decisions made by elected officials at the local, state and federal levels can directly affect the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes, including our treaty rights, homelands, natural resources, families, and future generations. Our voices must be part of those decisions. 

Midterm elections play a key role in determining leadership and priorities at every level of government. Even though they occur between presidential elections, the outcomes can significantly influence laws, funding decisions and long-term policies that impact our communities.

Our sovereignty is our inherent right to govern ourselves, protect our people and uphold our responsibilities to our homelands and future generations. While voting in elections outside our Tribal government does not define our sovereignty, it gives eligible Tribal members another way to influence decisions made by governments whose actions can affect ours. 

The Fort Hall Business Council works with elected officials at every level of government to protect our interests, uphold our treaty rights and communicate our priorities. When our tribal members are informed and actively engaged in elections, we strengthen our collective voice and reinforce these efforts. Our participation also helps keep our concerns visible and reminds elected officials that decisions affecting our people must be taken seriously. 

We encourage every eligible tribal member to learn about the candidates and issues, make a plan to vote and encourage family and friends to participate. Consider each candidate’s positions, particularly on tribal issues and their relationship with tribes. We may not agree on every candidate or issue, but we share a responsibility to protect our rights and advocate for our people. 

To our young and first-time voters, your voice matters. The decisions made by elected officials will affect your lives, your families and the future. Take time to learn about the topics, ask questions and participate in the process. Your involvement helps carry forward the responsibility of protecting our people and homelands. 

Our civic duty continues beyond Election Day. Staying informed and holding decision-makers accountable are important ways to ensure our priorities remain part of the conversation. 

For voter information and resources, visit the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes’ Voting Resource Guide at https://www.sbtribes.com/vote/. 

Our ancestors worked to protect our people, lands and way of life. We carry that responsibility forward by making our voices heard and participating in decisions that affect the future of the Shoshone-Bannock Tribes. 

Make your voice count on Tuesday, November 3. 

Sincerely, 

Fort Hall Business Council