The Indigenous communities of the United States are considered decisive voting blocs in several states, and both the 2020 and 2024 contests have seen an increase in efforts by both campaigns to mobilize Native voters in preparation for the elections in November. However, Natives express fears about the potential erosion of tribal land protections under Trump's administration.
While the president acknowledged the need for a law that grants federal status to Lumbee, some Native leaders question why tribal lands are treated similarly to public lands. This is the case of Robert Chavis Jr., an army veteran who showed support for Trump, highlighting the differences in energy policy between the candidates.
The federal recognition of Lumbee has become a critical issue for both campaigns, with voices for and against it in various tribal communities. Trump's stance has focused on promises to improve the economy and reduce energy costs, receiving support under the slogan "Drill, baby, drill." In contrast, Biden's campaign has centered on respecting treaties and tribal sovereignty, seeking to counter the proposed investments by Trump but criticizing unpopular extractive projects among Native Americans.
The recognition of Lumbee at the federal level, cited as an "injustice that needs to be addressed," has generated mixed opinions among voters, some trusting Trump's promises and others expressing doubts about the effectiveness of his policies. Additionally, Harris's stance regarding Native Americans has been highlighted as a continuation of policies implemented in previous administrations. In this context, the presidential elections present an opportunity to address the unique challenges faced by Native communities in the United States, especially on economic, environmental, and tribal sovereignty issues.