Chad Smith Announces Candidacy For Cherokee Nation Principal Chief

Former Cherokee Nation Principal Chief Chad Smith says he wants his old job back.

Smith says the decision to seek another term was easy. He says every time he's out and about, someone tells him he's missed in office and please come back.

Smith was voted out of office in 2011 in a contentious election that involved months of controversy, two elections and multiple recounts before current Principal Chief Bill John Baker was sworn in.

"Well the frustration in the last election was there was not a clear distinction between me and my challenger. This time, we both have a record," said Chad Smith.

Smith says his record shows he's committed to building a nation that serves all tribal members.

The next tribal election for chief is June 2015.

10/19/2011 Related Story: Cherokee Supreme Court Rejects Smith's Appeal