Rep. Eli Crane (R-AZ) visited the Yavapai-Apache Nation with Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Billy Kirkland to discuss ongoing projects and strengthen relationships between federal officials and tribal leadership. The visit took place during Native American History Month and marked Kirkland’s first official trip since his confirmation by the Senate.
The group toured several sites in the Middle Verde District of the Reservation, including recently acquired lands off Cherry Creek Road, the construction site of the Middle Verde Wastewater Treatment Plant, and a new housing development known as New Tunlii.
After the tour, Rep. Crane and Assistant Secretary Kirkland gave remarks at a reception attended by newly elected Yavapai-Apache Nation Chairman Buddy Rocha Jr., Vice Chair Charlie Baca IV, and members of the council. During his speech, Rep. Crane reiterated his support for key issues facing the Nation, such as its pending water settlement with the federal government.
“It was an honor to have Assistant Secretary for Indian Affairs Billy Kirkland visit rural Arizona yesterday on his first trip since being confirmed by the U.S. Senate,” said Rep. Crane. “We had a productive visit to the Yavapai-Apache Nation, and we appreciate Chairman Buddy Rocha Jr. for his warm hospitality. I look forward to continuing our great partnership and delivering meaningful results for the Nation.”
Eli Crane has represented Arizona’s 2nd congressional district in Congress since 2023 after succeeding Tom O’Halleran (https://crane.house.gov/about). Born in Tucson in 1980, he currently resides in Oro Valley.
