Play Live Radio
Next Up:
0:00
0:00
0:00 0:00
Available On Air Stations
Supported by

Jonathan Nez Sworn In As Navajo Nation President

FORT DEFIANCE, Ariz. (AP) -- Jonathan Nez has been sworn in as president of the Navajo Nation.

Nez delivered a message Tuesday of hope, resilience and change, of breaking old ways of thinking to move the tribe forward.

He and Vice President Myron Lizer took their oaths of office at an indoor sports arena in Fort Defiance, north of the Navajo Nation capital.

Sponsor Message

The ceremony was a mix of traditional Navajo and Christianity, reflecting the men's beliefs that tribal philosophy and God will help guide their administration.

Nez says change presents an opportunity for tribal leaders and Navajos to work together, and to incorporate the ideas of Navajo youth.

Thousands attended the inauguration, including other tribal leaders in Arizona.

Nez and Lizer easily won November's general election to lead the tribe for the next four years.