The unofficial results from Navajo Nation Election Administration released on July 22 show that Justin Jones and Crystalyne Curley will be advancing to the general election for president in November.
Jones led the race with 31% of votes at 15,039 and Curley followed at 17% with 8,546 votes. Navajo Nation President Buu Nygren was next with 15% of votes at 7,410.
Both candidates hosted watch parties on Tuesday night in Window Rock, Arizona.
“You voted today,” Jones said at the watch party. “You made a loud statement.”
Jones spoke on corruption, funding and unity at the end of the night as he thanked those who voted and attended.
“This campaign has been about all of you,” he said. “It’s about the Navajo Nation. I come second.”
His campaign priorities include investing in business by using Navajo fundamentals. Jones looks to rebuild the Navajo Nation by expanding housing and infrastructure, improving holistic healthcare, and focusing on the well-being of children, elders and veterans.
Curley focused on love, humbleness and integrity in her campaign as she spoke to attendees at her watch party.
“We’re not going to waste no time when we go into the office of the president or vice president,” Curley said of her campaign. “We’re going to hit that ground running on that first day.”
Her vision includes addressing housing shortages, strengthening Diné families, building a self-sustaining Navajo economy, and investing existing resources within the Executive Branch and leveraging external ones for infrastructure needs.
“One commitment that I have made to the team and my Navajo people is that I’m not scared of hard work,” she said. “I don’t think it’s above me at all. This team brings something different – because we’re only striving for positivity.”
In a statement, Nygren said he wishes both candidates continued wisdom and strength in their campaign that has required perseverance with the dedication of hours spent listening to communities across Navajo Nation.
“Your victories reflect the trust that the Navajo people have placed in your leadership, your vision, and your commitment to serving our Nation,” Nygren said in a statement. “As leaders, we all share the same purpose – to improve the lives of our people, strengthen our government, and create greater opportunities for future generations. While we may approach challenges from different perspectives, our shared commitment to the Navajo Nation must always come first.”
alee@tricityrecordnm.com
