Southern Ute Indian Reservation – The 2021 Run-Off Election was held on Friday, December 17, 2021. Tribal Council Candidate, Vanessa P. Torres successfully received majority of the votes cast with (125) votes. According to the Southern Ute Tribal Election, the Candidates who receives the majority of votes will be elected to the Tribal Council.

Tribal Council held a Special Meeting this morning to certify the Run-Off Election Results. The Southern Ute Election Board confirmed the following election results:

Office of Tribal Council                                             No. of Votes

Vanessa P. Torres                                                       125

W. Bruce Valdez                                                          115

This will be the second term serving on Tribal Council for newly re-elected tribal leader. During her first term, Torres represented the Southern Ute Indian Tribe and advocated for tribal water rights on the Ten Tribes Partnership. She also led projects identified as Tribal Council Priorities.

“I would like to thank the tribal membership for allowing me to be your voice for this next term. The experience I have gained in my first year will be a steppingstone towards building a stronger foundation on the many issues the Tribe and membership face,” stated Council Member Torres.

In her spare time, she enjoys spending time with her family, hunting, fishing, traveling, beading, reading and participating in cultural events. She is married and shares one daughter.

“I look forward to working with my colleagues once again. Thank you for the confidence and faith you have entrusted in me. Tuuvuch Toghoyaqh.”