NC House Rep. Jarrod Lowery, R-Robeson, has expressed concerns over the appointment of Chief Michell Hicks of the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians (EBCI) as chairman of the transition team for the Department of Administration to Governor-elect Josh Stein. Lowery, a Lumbee tribe member, raised questions about Hicks’s history of “hate and division” and racially inflammatory remarks, calling into question the role of the North Carolina Commission of Indian Affairs in representing the state’s tribes.
Lowery highlighted the importance of the Commission as a bridge between tribal communities and state government, especially given the significant Native American population in North Carolina. The Lumbee tribe, though partially recognized federally, has been fighting for full recognition since the 1880s.
The Lumbee tribe, a significant political force in Robeson County, has swung towards the right in recent elections, with President Trump winning by large margins in the county. Trump has expressed support for granting full federal recognition to the Lumbee tribe in 2025.
Lowery views Hicks as a “conquistador” due to his actions blocking recognition of tribes beyond the EBCI. He also raised concerns about financial contributions to Stein’s campaign from the EBCI and their potential influence on policy decisions.
Lowery called for a meeting with Governor-elect Stein to address these concerns and ensure fair representation of all Native communities in North Carolina. He emphasized the importance of respecting the voices of all tribes and working together to maintain the state’s status as the best in the union.
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