1. What or who inspired you to run for office?

As an adult, I have deeply valued the Cherokee Nation, particularly after becoming aware of their extensive social programs. These initiatives have been instrumental in various community projects, such as the construction of a rural water line that extended a mile from the nearest tap to our new home years ago. This project not only benefited my family but also provided our neighbors with access to Craig County Rural Water District #2, a vital resource given that many local wells in our area had high sulfur and salt content.

My career began with the support of the Cherokee Nation, which provided on-the-job training for my first role as a receptionist. This opportunity for a young Cherokee bride led me to pursue further education in Business Technology at the local Northeast Oklahoma Vo-Tech School in Afton. The initial support from these social programs was pivotal in launching my successful business career.

I am profoundly grateful for the myriad programs the Cherokee Nation has developed to support its citizens. Inspired by their impact, I am eager to step into the Cherokee Nation Council seat for District 9. I aim to pay it forward by helping others and aspire to inspire our children and grandchildren through leadership with integrity, leaving a lasting impact on future generations

2. What do you see as the biggest challenges facing your district right now?

**Housing Concerns in District 9**

During my visits with the Cherokee citizens of District 9, I have encountered widespread frustration regarding prolonged waiting periods for home repairs and the lengthy consideration process for newly constructed homes. While I share the pride of every Cherokee citizen in the impressive wellness centers being developed on the reservation, a short distance away, pressing housing needs are evident.

Water Infrastructure Challenges in District 9

During my recent survey of Cherokee citizens in District 9, I identified two communities severely affected by exorbitant water bills. Persistent water leaks and the need to purchase outsourced water have driven costs to unsustainable levels. It is troubling to learn that residents feel compelled to take their laundry to a neighboring town in order to conserve water and reduce expenses. Ensuring access to clean and affordable water must be a top priority for the entire Cherokee Nation.

Furthermore, there are significant concerns about delays in referrals to medical specialists. Feedback also highlights dissatisfaction with the extended time it takes for the Cherokee Nation to settle remaining bills, even after insurance payments have been made.

3. What are the biggest challenges facing the Cherokee Nation right now?

In my view, economic sustainability is crucial. Currently, federal and state funding streams are under scrutiny, potentially resulting in fewer opportunities for governmental support over the next four years. Despite the Cherokee Nation's significant income growth through Cherokee Nation Enterprises, Cherokee Federal, and other ventures, I am concerned about the public's reaction to possibly reduced spending on entertainment and the necessity to tighten budgets to meet basic household needs in this uncertain economic climate. I am confident that our leadership will address these challenges directly and formulate strategic plans with contingencies for various scenarios.

Additionally, medical staffing shortages have reached unprecedented levels globally, and Indian Country faces unique health risks that demand continuous attention and solutions. Promoting wellness and healthier lifestyles is essential for improving outcomes related to cancer, diabetes, and other major health concerns.

Our Cherokee people need secure homes, stable employment to support their families, and a leadership team committed to developing sustainable plans that ensure the Cherokee Nation remains strong and resilient for generations to come.

4. What solutions do you want implemented to address the challenges facing your district and the Cherokee Nation?

**Establish a review team and implement an improved housing action plan** tasked with evaluating the current outstanding housing requests for remodeling projects. This team should also work to expand the network of contractors, enabling these projects to be completed more efficiently and in a timely manner.

Collaborate with local governments and rural water districts to assess the infrastructure needs and action plans within the Cherokee Nation reservation to bring results for clean and affordable water, ensuring that all communities have access to this essential resource.

Research and Manufacturing of Pharmaceuticals Indigenous people have long been recognized as skilled healers and herbalists. It would be beneficial to foster the development of pharmaceutical research and manufacturing within the Cherokee Nation, serving both America and other nations. By doing so, we can reduce our reliance on foreign sources, such as China, and cultivate self-sufficiency on our own land.

Advance the initiatives within the Community and Cultural Outreach division to deliver more integrated solutions to our Cherokee Nation communities. These initiatives should address nutrition, wellness, small business and entrepreneurial development, and cultural events that promote socialization.

Support ongoing education and career development programs and scholarships, which are vital for our youth. Many middle-income families work diligently, yet their children often miss out on scholarship opportunities because they do not fall below the poverty line. It is essential to address this gap to ensure that all our young people have access to the resources they need for their future success.

5. Can you work with others who do not share your views to help remedy the needs of your district and the Cherokee Nation? Please provide examples of past experiences where you worked with others who disagreed with you then or in the past and created a positive outcome.

The diversity within each branch of leadership, staff, and employees of the Cherokee Nation enriches our community by bringing together a wide array of ideas, perspectives, and convictions. This diversity presents both a challenge and an opportunity as we strive to communicate effectively and establish shared visions, goals, and strategic plans. While disagreements are inevitable, it is essential that we evaluate differing viewpoints and stay committed to achieving what is best for the citizens of the Cherokee Nation.

Over my 45-year career in public service, which has spanned roles from clerical support to program director, I have encountered many differences of opinion and have sometimes disagreed with decisions. Despite this, I firmly believe in the importance of supporting one another and upholding the principles of teamwork. I have consistently maintained a positive demeanor, knowing that a simple smile can often diffuse tension. I am convinced that kindness and respect are fundamental to meeting the needs of every individual.

6. What experiences do you feel you bring to the table that make you qualified for the Cherokee Nation Tribal Council?

I have dedicated over 45 years to public service within the Cherokee Nation reservation, where my career has spanned a variety of roles and responsibilities. My professional journey included significant administrative involvement in the construction of the GRDA Coal Fired Plant #1, managing financial investments for trust customers, and serving as a Senior Interviewer with the Oklahoma Employment Security Commission, where I successfully placed numerous individuals in jobs at the Mid-America Industrial Park. Additionally, I worked in Human Resources for KAMO Power, overseeing employee benefits and ensuring compliance with DOT regulations, and lastly, I directed Pelivan Transit, serving an eight-county region in northeast Oklahoma until I took early retirement in 2019 to serve my parents during my Dad’s final year of fighting cancer.

Throughout my career, I have been active on local, state, and national boards, which has enriched my understanding of legislative processes, program management, and regional coordination in the transportation sector. I am also grateful for my ongoing education at Rogers State University, as well as two years of study at Panhandle Bible College. I believe that this diverse array of experiences has equipped me to serve effectively on the Cherokee Nation Council, advocating for the best interests of our Cherokee citizens.

7. Why do you think voters should trust you?

My life’s purpose is deeply rooted in serving others with love, guided by the teachings and commission of the gospel of Jesus Christ. My career has been a true calling, centered on helping those around me. Recently, I visited a Cherokee friend who wished me well in my campaign, but she expressed a concern: “Debbie, please don’t forget us 'Little People' if you get elected!” Her words surprised me, and I responded, “I am one of the 'Little People' too!” I genuinely understand the needs and desires of our Cherokee citizens. I am committed to listening to them and reaching out to help when necessary.

I firmly believe that we should approach every task with diligence and devotion. Throughout my career, I have consistently demonstrated this commitment, earning numerous awards and accolades that affirm my dedication to service.

It touches me deeply that many elders in our community find themselves overwhelmed by the rapid pace of technology and often require assistance with forms and service requests with the Cherokee Nation. I am here to provide that help. There is an indescribable love that accompanies a servant’s heart, and I am dedicated to embodying that spirit. I believe we are blessed with good people in our leadership, and I choose to seek and celebrate the good of all.

8. How will you balance the legislative and executive branches of the Cherokee Nation?

If elected, I will solemnly pledge to uphold the Cherokee Nation Constitution and actively promote our tribe’s culture, heritage, and traditions. My responsibilities will encompass executing my duties diligently and impartially, as detailed in the official documents of the Cherokee Nation.

Maintaining a balance among the legislative, executive, and judicial branches is essential to ensuring that power is distributed fairly within the Cherokee Nation. This balance requires unwavering adherence to the laws outlined in the Cherokee Nation Constitution, which was last drafted in 1999 and ratified by popular vote in 2003. My foremost goal is to serve as the elected representative of Cherokee citizens on the Council.

9. What does balance between the branches of the Cherokee Nation government mean to you?

In my view, each branch of government is assigned distinct responsibilities and serves as a check and balance to the others, preventing any single branch from becoming overly powerful. The purpose of maintaining this equilibrium is to protect against tyranny and ensure that the governance of the Cherokee Nation operates in a manner that addresses the needs of all Cherokee citizens.

10. Please provide examples of how you would want to improve transparency in the Cherokee Nation government.

I would like for all reports submitted to the Cherokee Nation Tribal Council for review to be made available for public access through the Cherokee.org portal for download  or electronically transmitted upon request.  I watch committee and tribal council meetings but lack seeing the reports and resolutions submitted for vote. This would help the Cherokee citizens to become more informed on the votes being cast on their behalf.

11. Please provide examples of how you would want transparency improved in the Cherokee Nation Businesses.

Again, the Cherokee Nation Businesses should submit reports and disclosures to the Cherokee Nation Tribal Council and make available to Cherokee citizens’ review requests via online portals or electronic requests.

12. Do you think the Cherokee Nation is providing adequate health care for its citizens? Please provide examples.

As a patient within the Cherokee Nation’s healthcare system, I have received adequate primary, dental, optometry, and pharmaceutical care, that works in tandem with my Medicare and a supplemental insurance provider benefit. Over the years, they have referred me to specialists in the private sector, as needed.  Healthcare is a huge demand for our Cherokee citizens and I believe the Cherokee Nation has been successful in their endeavors in bringing quality healthcare to tribal citizens.

I believe that implementing an educational program focused on emergency room care coordination would be highly beneficial for Cherokee citizens who live beyond safe distances of a Cherokee Nation emergency facility. Many patients, like me, have struggled to navigate the process, and such an educational program could prepare us for the proper steps to take in case of an emergency.

Debra S. McGlasson

Candidate Cherokee Nation Council, District 9

918.244.1286

[email protected]

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