BRYANS ROAD, Md. — The Piscataway Conoy Tribe proudly announces the official results of its 2026 Tribal Council Election, held on December 6, 2025, effective January 1, 2026.
The following individuals have been elected to serve as officers and councilpersons for the Maryland state-recognized Piscataway Conoy Tribe:
- Francis Gray, Tribal Chair (Incumbent)
- Tiara Thomas, Vice Chair
- Shannon Harley, Secretary
- John M. Swann, Treasurer
- Mario Harley (Incumbent), At-Large Councilperson
- Debbie Caldwell, At-Large Councilperson
- Jay Newman, At-Large Councilperson
In accordance with the Piscataway Conoy Tribe’s governance structure, there is no position of “chief” or any lifetime leadership role; all authority is vested solely in the duly elected Piscataway Conoy Tribal Council.
Francis Gray, Tribal Chair, is officially recognized by the State of Maryland as the governmental representative for the Piscataway Conoy Tribe alongside Piscataway Indian Nation (PIN) Chief Mark Tayak, (Beaver Clan).
The Tribal Council Election was conducted through a transparent, democratic, and inclusive process open to all certified, enrolled Piscataway Conoy tribal citizens aged 18 and older.
Voting took place at the Piscataway Conoy Tribal Center at 16816 Country Lane in Waldorf, Maryland. The election process included the publication of election rules, a Candidates’ Forum, ballot tabulation, and independent validation and certification of results by a respected local law firm.
The Piscataway Conoy Tribe received Maryland State Indian Status on January 9, 2012, by Executive Order from Governor Martin O’Malley.
After a period of revitalization, self-identification, and self-determination in the mid-to-late 20th century, the Piscataway Conoy Tribe continues to strengthen its sovereign identity. Tribal citizens remain active contributors to American society while preserving their cultural traditions, values, and heritage.
The newly elected PCT Tribal Council, under the continued leadership of Chairman Francis Gray, is committed to advancing the sovereignty, cultural vitality, and well-being of all Piscataway Conoy citizens.
The Council will extend the work of the previous leadership by preserving and revitalizing Piscataway Conoy heritage, protecting ancestral homelands, expanding educational and economic opportunities, and fostering community partnerships that honor both history and future.
The Tribe congratulates the newly elected PCT Tribal Council and looks forward to their leadership and service to the tribal community.