Mitchell right, and Krueger wrong, about sovereignty

In defense of Commissioner Mitchell’s comment about the Salish Kootenai Tribes, or any other tribes in the United States, which was printed in the Jan. 30 edition of the Daily Inter Lake, I happen to be in full agreement with what he said, “They are part of the United States of America when they want to be; when they want federal funds.”

Webster’s dictionary defines “sovereign” as freedom from external control. Autonomous state; having the right or power of self government.

They want these rights, but don’t quit sending United States taxpayers’ money to support us. You can’t have both; if you want the money, you have to give up your sovereignty. If you want your sovereignty, don’t take the money.

I think Mr. Krueger needs to get off his high horse. Anyway, I don’t think Commissioner Mitchell owes anyone an apology. —Jerry A. Oftedahl, Kalispell