Did a Government Press Conference Sway a First Nations Election? – The Tyee

March 9, 2026

Observers say provincial and federal governments use deals to exert influence over band elections.

Press conferences held in the Premier’s Rose Garden don’t just happen, especially when more than one provincial cabinet member and a special guest are involved.

Ministers receive press release drafts and background materials and are carefully briefed by staff on who they will share the stage with. So plenty of planning preceded May 3, 2023, the day three ministers joined McLeod Lake Indian Band Chief Harley Chingee to announce a new revenue-sharing and land management agreement between the province and the northern B.C. band.