Washington DC — Building and maintaining relationships with state and federal leaders is central to getting things done for Tribal government.
And it is not enough just to focus on our friends at the state, local, and federal levels in the State of Washington; we must expand our relationships beyond its borders and the borders of our ceded territory.
Secretary Jessica Garcia-Jones did just that this summer when she traveled to meet with several important political figures including House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (NY) and Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear (KY), whose name has been mentioned as a potential presidential candidate in 2028.
The meetings gave her the opportunity to spread knowledge about the Muckleshoot Tribe and its Treaty rights while building meaningful relationships for the Tribe in the future. This sort of active diplomacy is at the core of Tribal sovereignty and it is something that every Tribal Councilmember does on a daily basis.
The Native American 40 Under 40 award honors Indigenous leaders under the age of 40 from across the United States who are carrying forward the work of their people through leadership, service and commitment to community.
On Saturday, Jan. 24, the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe opened the Muckleshoot Athletic Center, marking a major investment in training, skill development and long-term athletic opportunity for Muckleshoot people and future generations.
On Jan. 19, the 2026 Muckleshoot Indian Tribe held its annual elections with the winning results as follows: Virginia Cross: 408; Jessica Garcia: 369; Elieen Richardson: 311. Thank you all who participated in this year’s election.
Tacoma City Ballet donated 250 tickets on December 12, to members of the Muckleshoot Tribal community offering families and youth the opportunity to experience ballet and the performing arts together.
The Muckleshoot Messenger is a Tribal publication created by the Muckleshoot Office of Media Services. Tribal community members and Tribal employees are welcome to submit items to the newspaper such as news, calendar items, photos, poems, and artwork.
Official Government Website for the Muckleshoot Indian Tribe
© Muckleshoot Indian Tribe 2026
