WINDOW ROCK – On July 22, Navajo Nation President Dr. Buu Nygren and Vice President Richelle Montoya met under good intentions to discuss a reconciliation, a step toward healing and unifying the Navajo Nation.
The President and Vice President reminded each other of why they committed to run for the two highest offices on the Navajo Nation, and the dedication they share to serving our people.
They also discussed a few priorities, including health, education, Missing Murdered Diné Relatives (MMDR), and animal control, of which the Vice President will spearhead. These priorities are outlined in a July 24, 2025, memo issued to the Vice President. This memo was shared with the Executive Branch.
The President has also asked the Vice-President to step in to attend health-related meetings on his behalf, including those in Washington, D.C.
“I, as the Vice President of the Navajo Nation, take this opportunity to continue to help my Navajo people,” Vice President Montoya said. “The priorities the Nygren/Montoya team campaigned on are still the priorities of the Navajo Nation Vice President, and I will continue to keep the people first.”
The President has authorized the replacement of the vehicle currently used by the Vice President with a new tribal vehicle. In addition, the Vice President will receive additional staff and the rehire of a staff member to assist the Vice President.
“We acknowledged that we will not always agree with each other,” said President Nygren. “Our reconciliation is greater than our personal feelings. It is about the needs of the people and ensuring we continue to focus on the projects that matter to our people.”
As the Vice-President travels more to engage with community and leadership, President Nygren asks the public and our fellow leaders to be patient with and support this transition as they navigate the reconciliation process.
“We have agreed that this reconciliation will take time. We are confident that we will have a successful reconciliation,” President Nygren added. “We thank all of our supporters who have sent us encouraging messages.”