MEMBER OF CONGRESS

Marilyn Strickland

Democrat WA 1 statement translated

House of Representatives

Honoring Ellery Choke

2026-09-01

“I want to say nice things about a man who helped people. He cared about his community and about nature. I am sad that he died. I want to be his friend and follow his legacy. We should be quiet to remember him.”

Official Congressional Record

Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the life and legacy of Ellery ``Ken'' Choke, the chairman of the Nisqually Indian Tribe, who passed away on August 4, 2026. Chairman Choke was born on February 25, 1964, in Centralia, Washington, and served as chairman of the Nisqually Tribe from 2018 to 2021 and was reelected chairman in 2024. Chairman Choke was a respected and beloved leader who placed his community at the center of service. He was dedicated to protecting the land, water, salmon, and people of the Nisqually Tribe for generations to come. He will be remembered for his tireless service and commitment to his Tribal nation and to the South Sound community at large. I was personally pleased to work with him on our efforts to transfer the Clear Creek Hatchery from U.S. Fish and Wildlife to Tribal ownership. I remain committed to honoring his legacy by moving this project forward and making it reality. I am hopeful that his dedication to ensuring Tribal treaty rights, protecting our natural resources, and boosting salmon species in our region will continue on through those he knew. He made South Sound, the State of Washington, and the Nation better; and he will be deeply missed. He is survived by his wife, eight children, and six grandchildren. Mr. Speaker, I now ask my colleagues in Congress to join me in a moment of silence and hold Chairman Choke's family, loved ones, and the entire Nisqually Tribe of Indians in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

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