The dynamics of the race for chairman changed dramatically when Aaron Tobey decided to withdraw from the race Thursday and run for treasurer. He pivoted masterfully, endorsing Nelson Andrews, who also pulled his qualifying papers Wednesday. The two pledged unity to bring about change for the beleaguered Tribe. And the government center was abuzz with excitement.
That leaves a head-to-head match-up between the embattled Brian Weeden and the popular Nelson Andrews a rising star in Indian country who’s become a “go to” on a wide range of subjects relating to
Tobey has remained active in tribal affairs. He definitely does not shy away from challenges or work.
management, tribal economic development partnerships and emergency services.
Tobey, meanwhile, has his own distinct profile. As a staunch constitutionalist, he’s credited with preserving the Tribe’s local control by challenging the use of mail-in ballots. He won that fight. So, unlike many other tribes, the Mashpee must vote in person to have a say in government. Tribes using mail-in ballots bemoan the fact that local members lose control to off-reservation members who don’t know the candidates or the issues impacting them.
Tobey has a record that reflects a long list of challenges to wasteful spending violations of ordinances and, of course, the Constitution. He served as the tribal vice chairman and on Council. His motto is “tribe first” reflecting a commitment that has been steady.
Andrews built a cachet of contacts and relationships with tribal leaders that can only help bolster future
Supporters of Andrews say he will get the Tribe on a positive path. His management skills will encourage officers, council members, and staff to work together for a common goal. Restoring confidence in the government will also be a plus.
economic development. His vision extends beyond grant dependence to sustainability based on tribal-run businesses. Apparently, his role as the FEMA liaison to the 10 tribes on the East Coast has helped with those economic development prospects and other beneficial efforts that have been conspicuously absent from the Weeden administration.
Weeden, just recently off probation for the Plymouth Plantation episode, will likely try to take credit for the Welcome Center that was unveiled in Taunton Friday. Let’s be clear, people; for the record, the Child King had nothing to do with any aspect of the slot machine phase of this casino effort. As a matter of fact he has had nothing to do with anything relating to the casino. He does get credit for sitting in the back of the room during meetings, like an observer, silent. We all know who does the work and who does the photo OPS.
On to Bobby, known as The Alleged Treasurer, is an amazing. He offers the most extraordinary comic relief ever seen. His performance during the Wednesday Council meeting was so ridiculous you couldn’t follow it because you were cracking up. More craziness is the case of TAT’s Jaguar. For months, this car with a flat tire has been
Good Ole TAT has been appointed to chair the newly created Tribal Landmark Committee. “It is my honor to accept this role,“ he said through his tears of joy.
parked in front of the government Center. He probably
The Child King has never been serious. He doesn’t know how and doesn’t want to learn. He gets that big check, travels a lot, collects titles, does photo OPS, and bullies. Definitely not a service kinda guy.
can’t get the tire changed, and the tags are expired too. But his reputation as Repo Man has us thinking that it’s there because they can’t repossess the car on tribal land. It’s kinda like a landmark now, you know, Straight Outta Smoke Signals. Bobby uses tribal vehicles for personal use getting to and from the Wigwam to get to work. That’s your Treasurer.
We will officially know who has qualified on Sunday. It’s going to be interesting.
Hot and Poppin’ is more like it.
