Five defeated candidates for Cherokee Chief filed a federal lawsuit seeking a new election and damages. They allege that the new chief, Ross Swimmer, has control over tribal funds and has interests in corporations doing business with the Cherokee Nation. The lawsuit also claims that election committee members favored certain candidates, destroyed ballots, and failed to keep proper records. The defendants named in the lawsuit include former Chief W. W. Keeler, election committee members, and BIA agency superintendent Joe Ragsdale. The plaintiffs argue that their rights to equal protection and lawful privilege to vote were violated.