Ethics Commission: Nomination and Election Timeline Announced
The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe has announced the next steps in the process for seating an Ethics Commission—an important part of the Tribe’s Code of Ethics Ordinance that helps strengthen accountability and public trust in Tribal governance.
The Ethics Commission is intended to operate as an agency of the Tribe empowered to fairly enforce the Tribe’s ethics standards and support transparent, responsible government.
Key Dates for the 2026 Ethics Commission Process
Sunday, February 8, 2026 (General Body Meeting): Tribal members may submit nominations to the Commission, and the Election Committee will issue Advance Notice of the election scheduled for Sunday, May 17, 2026.
Sunday, March 8, 2026 (General Body Meeting): Deadline for nominees to submit a Letter of Interest describing why they wish to serve, along with reference check contact information.
Monday, March 30, 2026: Deadline for the Election Committee to certify that nominees have submitted Letters of Interest and completed satisfactory background and reference checks.
Friday, April 3, 2026: Deadline to distribute the final list of nominees and Letters of Interest via E-Blast and posting at the Tribal Community & Government Center.
Sunday, May 17, 2026: General Election for Ethics Commissioners.
How to Participate
Tribal members are encouraged to stay engaged by:
Attending the February 8 General Body Meeting to submit nominations, and
Reviewing nominee letters once they are shared in early April.
This process follows a structure similar to prior Ethics Commission election timelines shared with the community in recent years. The ethics Commissioners elected in 2025 withdrew their interest in serving, therefore Tribal council approved 2026-RES-009 Approval of Date for General Body Election for Ethics Commissions in order to fill the commissioner seats. Once the General Body elects 3 commissioners, it will move to tribal council appointments in order to complete the board.
