The Oglala Sioux Tribe President says the U.S. government has long overlooked its treaty obligations to the tribe. Frank Star Comes Out expressed concern over recent federal budget cuts affecting key agencies such as the Bureau of Indian Affairs, Indian Health Service, and Bureau of Indian Education—which he says are critical services for reservation life.
“We’re being left out, maybe due to ignorance,” Star Comes Out said, acknowledging uncertainty about the full impact of the cuts. Staffing issues, especially at health facilities, are already evident.
To safeguard tribal programs like education and transportation, the OST leadership is taking steps including issuing formal objections to executive actions. Star Comes Out voiced hope that the Trump administration will uphold promises to tribal nations and said he believes Medicaid reductions won’t affect Indian Country—but the tribe will continue monitoring closely.
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