This article was originally published by KOSU, an independent news service based in Oklahoma.
Tribal, state and national leaders are honoring Chickasaw Gov. Bill Anoatubby after he announced his retirement from tribal politics Monday, June 8.
Principal chiefs from the Cherokee and Muscogee nations, Chuck Hoskin Jr. and David Hill, respectively, released statements calling Anoatubby a mentor.
Hoskin called Anoatubby “the greatest leader the InterTribal Council of the Five Tribes has ever known,” and said the Cherokee Nation has full confidence in Chris Anoatubby, who will be sworn in as governor later this month.
“Time and again, he showed up – at our annual Cherokee National Holiday, at inauguration, at our State of the Nation address, and at the historic Wilma Mankiller Quarter release. His presence was never just ceremonial,” Hoskin said. “It was a reflection of genuine partnership built over decades of shared purpose … Because of his leadership, tribes have a bigger voice in this state – and that voice will echo for generations.”
Hill referred to Anoatubby as the Inter-Tribal Council’s “quarterback.”
“I will always remember those early days and his guidance and mentorship. I’ll carry it with me until the day my service comes to a close, and beyond. Because the truth is, those lessons were good for living, not just leading,” Hill said. “Mvto Governor A, for everything. You’ll always be unconquered and unconquerable.”
Choctaw Nation Principal Chief Gary Batton said Anoatubby’s impact extends beyond the Chickasaw Nation, reaching across the state.
“It has been an honor and a joy to work with him over the years, and I’m grateful to call him a friend,” Batton said. “He has helped people understand the value and importance of tribal sovereignty and has been a role model for tribes seeking to expand their business activities to provide more services to their members and communities. His vision and leadership, along with his kindness and compassion, will live on and not be forgotten.”
Osage Nation Principal Chief Geoffrey Standing Bear reflected on Anoatubby’s leadership in admiration.
“It has been a privilege to work with him over the years,” Standing Bear said in a statement. “His legacy will endure for generations. I wish him happiness and good health.”
Politicians from Oklahoma are also voicing celebration for Anoatubby.
State gubernatorial candidates from different parties, including Republican Attorney General Gentner Drummond and Democratic House Minority Leader Cyndi Munson are among them.
Drummond released a statement calling Anoatubby one of the greatest governors of any government in Oklahoma history.
“His decades of service to the Chickasaw Nation and to all Oklahomans reflect a rare combination of vision, integrity and genuine dedication to the people he served,” Drummond wrote.
Munson said Anoatubby was an “incredible mentor” for her time in the Oklahoma State Legislature.
“I have a deeper appreciation for the sovereignty of our tribal nations and their partnership with the State of Oklahoma because of his leadership and friendship we have shared,” Munson wrote.
U.S. Sen. James Lankford wrote on Facebook Anoatubby has supported Oklahoma in addition to the Chickasaw Nation.
“During Governor Anoatubby’s time in office, the Chickasaw Nation has utilized its sovereign authority to put in place countless health, educational, and economic resources benefiting not only the Chickasaw people but all Oklahomans,” Lankford wrote. “I’m grateful that during my time in office, I have been able to count Governor Anoatubby as a friend and someone I could call upon to talk through important issues impacting our state.”
Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt, the University of Oklahoma, State Senate Democratic Leader Julia Kirt, D-Oklahoma City, U.S. Rep. Stephanie Bice and State Auditor and Inspector Cindy Byrd also shared admiration of Anoatubby.
