Your recent mailer stating that candidate for NM State Legislature Sharon Clahchischilliage is “not Navajo enough” is appalling. It is shocking that a state party would knowingly try to divide the Navajo people in their vote and impugn the integrity of a fine patriotic woman. These tactics have no place in the Democratic House. For the Democratic Party of New Mexico to attempt to divide the Navajo people in a cynical and blatantly racist manner is unprecedented.

As a life long Democrat and citizen of the Navajo Nation, I find this late stage political smear campaign disturbing. I know first hand Sharon’s impeccable strength of character, poise and integrity. She is a patriot, a proud Navajo and a strong leader. I worked under Sharon’s leadership at the Navajo Nation Washington Office for several years and I know her well. Sharon fought to ensure the Navajo Nation had a seat at the table when it came to policy and program decision-making at the highest levels of government. Sharon directed her staff to always think of the Navajo people forefront in all of their dealings with both sides of the aisle, without regard to political affiliation.

As commissioned officer with the U.S. Public Health Service Corps Sharon wore her U.S. uniform with pride and distinction to protect the health and human safety of the citizens of the United States. To impugn the integrity of this fine woman leader is a dishonor to our democratic ideals and what we stand for as a party.

For the Democratic Party of New Mexico to attempt to divide the Navajo people and make this claim against Sharon is disgusting—because it’s so far from the truth.This is demeaning to the Democratic Party. The Democratic House is a large and inclusive body. Our party platform is not divisive, but respects the uniqueness of all faiths, races, and backgrounds. We have a lot of work to do to continue our path forward for our great country’s prosperity and security. Smear campaigns detract from our vision, our inclusiveness, and our unity.

Sincerely,

Jared King

(Naschitti, New Mexico and Washington, DC)