the reality of poverty, small numbers of registered voters or lack of political influence, resulted in a political environment where these votes were largely ignored.
Still, over the last 15 years, Natives have developed their economies, registered voters and engaged more fully in the political and policy process. The results have been dramatic.
In some Western states, the Native vote can decide the outcome of an election. Just ask former Sen. Slade Gorton (R-Washington). In 2000, he was unseated by Sen. Maria Cantwell (D-Washington) in part because tribes viewed Gorton as so anti-tribal that they decided to unite against him.
Since then, tribes and political parties have slowly and quietly engaged Natives in tight races to support pro-tribal candidates. Sen. Jon Tester (D-Montana) may owe his two terms in the Senate to tribal communities. Sen. Lisa Murkowski's (R-Alaska) historic write-in campaign during the general election largely was the result of Native voters who were fearful of what Republican candidate Joe Miller's vote would bring to their communities. Sen. Heidi Heitkamp (D-Washington) also focused on Native turnout for her successful election.
This year, Sen. Mark Begich (D-Alaska) implemented a massive voter turnout machine across thousands of miles focused on Natives who live in isolated villages.
Both parties are learning the Native vote is not partisan. The two tribal citizens serving in the House are both Republicans: Reps. Tom Cole (R-Oklahoma) and Markwayne Mullin (R-Oklahoma).
Many who may vote for Begich will also likely vote for Rep. Don Young (R-Alaska), the dean of the Republican conference in the House. The National Republican Senatorial Committee appointed Murkowski to lead outreach to tribal communities, and Cole leads a similar effort for House Republicans.
To be sure, more campaigns and party operatives understand the importance of the Native vote, but it is questionable if the broader political establishment and political media truly understands and appreciates the impact the Native vote has had on federal elections since 2000.
As more and more Native Americans vote, particularly in key races, politicians must engage on these issues at a policy level, not only when they are asking for votes. Native issues can no longer be an ancillary product of Congress, but must be addressed regularly and with meaning.
Some have done so. In recent years, such attention has resulted in more funding for the Indian Health Service, the resolution of major suits against the United States, inclusion in high-profile laws such as the Violence Against Women Act and the Affordable Care Act, and more authority for Natives to govern their communities.
However, the need in these communities is so great that significant work remains to be done. As Congress works to address the difficult issues in our nation, tribal issues must be a priority.
Tribes and Native Americans have a unique relationship with the United States, one that is recognized by - not created by - the Constitution. These communities also have some of the greatest needs for health care, jobs and economic development.
If Congress is unable to always do the right thing for the right reasons, tribes are at least learning that politicians may do the right thing when their job depends on it. For more and more officials, their jobs do depend on it - and Congress and the media are paying closer attention.