Aaron Pete is the new chief for Chawathil First Nation.
Pete was one of four candidates who ran for chief during Chawathil's election on July 9. Band members were also able to vote-in for six councillors from a list of 14 candidates, which also included Pete.
For chief, he ran against now former-chief Norm Florence, Kelsey John, Shane August John. For councillor, he ran against Monica Florence, Audrey George, Kelsey John, and Timothy Peters, Sarah Ewen, Norm Florence, Crystal John, Donovan John, Elijah John, Landon John, Shane August John, Georgina Kay, and Jessica Pablo.
Monica, Norm, Kelsey, Peters, and Ewen were elected as the new councillors for Chawathil.
He posted an acceptance letter to his Facebook on July 10.
"What makes this election especially meaningful is that it was truly democratic," he wrote. "I don’t come from a large family within the Nation. My success came because families from across our community—each with different concerns and priorities—came together to support a shared vision. That’s a sign of real progress.
"We’re breaking the cycle of voting solely along family lines and instead choosing leaders who share their vision and follow through with action."
Pete previously served on council for the 2022 to 2025 term, along with Norm Florence, Monica Florence, Audrey George, Kelsey John, and Timothy Peters. Together they worked to secure funding to improve their community's economy and infrastructure. This includes renovating homes, creating new housing, building a new child care centre, launching a new food bank, creating a new website and the Chawathil mobile app, and completing major infrastructure upgrades.
A graduate of the Peter A. Allard School of Law, Pete is the host of the Bigger Than Me podcast, which he started during law school. He uses the podcast, which recently reached its 200th episode, to interview community leaders, politicians and role models.
He was also recently awarded a 2025 King Charles III Coronation Medal in recognition of his leadership and service to his community.
"I’m incredibly excited to continue serving our members and community," Pete said. "There’s important work ahead, and it’s an honour to help lead that work, guiding our Nation toward greater prosperity, stability, and a stronger future.
"To those who didn’t vote for me, know that I hear you, I respect you, and I’ll work hard to earn your trust. My commitment is to serve all members of our nation with integrity and determination."
