The Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa Indians (GTB) released its official list of 16 candidates for the upcoming 2026 general election last week. The tribal council has set Tuesday, May 5 as the election day, however, a primary election will be held on March 31. The Election Board holds primary elections if more than six members file for candidacy for tribal council seats, or if more than two persons file for candidacy for the gaming commissioner role.
The list of 2026 GTB election candidates this year include: Stacie McClellan, Ryan Memberto, Russell Anderson, David Arroyo, David Wonegeshik, Noodin Amanda- Jo McSauby Jones, Tina Frankenberger, TaShena Sams, Francis Carew, Aaron Chivis, Brian Napont, Jane Rohl, Ruth Anderson, Andrew Myrick, Theresa Marshall, and Elijah Shomin.
“I am pretty pleased with the outcome of candidates that’s going to hopefully inspire people to get out and vote,” said GTB Election Board Chair Frank Wilson, who explained how he’s encouraged by the number of candidates running. “We’re in for a great turnout, I hope.”
