John Lowery

The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina, recently recognized as the 575th federally recognized tribe, faces significant healthcare challenges despite potential access to federal funding. The Indian Health Service (IHS), which could provide critical support, is chronically underfunded, and the nearest facility is over two hours away for most Lumbee citizens in Robeson County, an area with high poverty and poor health outcomes.

Rep. Ed Goodwin (R-Chowan) has repeatedly advocated for the recognition of the Tuscarora Indian tribe in North Carolina, culminating in his 2024 push for House Bill 600 to grant them state recognition and a seat on the State Commission of Indian Affairs. The Tuscarora seek recognition to preserve their culture, despite opposition claiming they are a splinter group of the Lumbee Tribe, which recently achieved federal recognition.

The Lumbee Tribe of North Carolina rejected constitutional amendments that would have allowed the tribe to build a casino, with 62% of nearly 9,000 voters opposing the changes. Critics argued the amendments would concentrate power in tribal leadership, while supporters cited economic benefits and competition with nearby South Carolina casinos.