shíshálh Nation elects Warren Paull as chief

Warren Paull won the shíshálh Nation 2026 chief election with 200 votes to incumbent Lenora Joe's 161; four ballots were spoiled and 365 ballots were cast.

Warren Paull is returning to the office of hiwus (chief) after the shíshálh Nation's 2026 election concluded Saturday. The official consolidated count shows Paull received 200 votes while incumbent yalxwemult Lenora Joe received 161. Four ballots were spoiled and a total of 365 ballots were cast in the chief race. Paull has previously served as elected chief in 2017 and 2020 and has also served as a councillor. Election results: - Warren Paull received 200 votes and Lenora Joe received 161 votes; four ballots were spoiled and 365 ballots were cast in the chief race. - Paull previously served as elected chief in 2017 and 2020 and has also served as a councillor. - In 2023, yalxwemult Lenora Joe won the election and became the first woman elected chief. - Four hihewus (councillors) were elected: Jamel Paul, Benny Pierre Jr., Selina August and Philip Paul, who was the only returning member of the previous council. - Newly elected officials took their oath of office on Monday, Feb. 23, at 9 a.m. in the makwam boardroom in the huham building. Summary: The election returns Warren Paull to the hiwus role and establishes a council with one returning member; the Nation issued thanks to candidates and voters and highlighted the community's commitment. Newly elected officials were sworn in on Feb. 23. Undetermined at this time.