Local News, Central Council of the Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska

Tlingit and Haida’s top VP challenging longtime president in next week’s tribal election

First Vice President Ku.seen Jacqueline Pata is seeking to replace President Chalyee Éesh Richard Peterson, president since 2014 and the target of abuse accusations last year

by Mark Sabbatini - Juneau Independent September 18, 2026September 20, 2026

Ku.seen Jacqueline Pata, left, first vice president of the Central Council of the Tlingit and Haida Indian Tribes of Alaska, and longtime tribal President Chalyee Éesh Richard Peterson participate in a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Two Coppers Casino on July 1, 2026. (Mark Sabbatini / Juneau Independent)

Editor’s note: This story has been updated with more information about Ku.seen Jacqueline Pata’s time at the National Congress of American Indians.

The top vice president is seeking…