Abstract: INDIAN NATIONS ARE SOVEREIGN GOVERNMENTS, recognized under treaties and the U.S. Constitution. Yet tribal government issues have suffered from inattention during the transition and early years of many prior Administrations. If appointments and major policy decisions are delayed for extended periods, the long term issues in Indian country are left unaddressed and handed on to the next Administration. Any significant reform efforts must be planned during the transition and start at the beginning of an Administration if they are to succeed.
