Tensions have escalated within the Navajo Nation’s leadership, as President Buu Nygren’s attempt to dismiss the tribe’s controller has been met with resistance from the Navajo Nation Council. This development marks yet another chapter in the ongoing conflict over executive financial authority.
Sean McCabe, who currently holds the position of Navajo Controller, has voiced his concerns to the council’s Budget and Finance Committee. “We are the largest Indigenous tribe on the planet, and this is happening,” McCabe stated. “You don’t see this at a lemonade stand on the side of the road. President Buu Nygren, this is unacceptable. I hope you’re listening, I hope your people are listening.”
McCabe expressed to the committee that under Interim Controller Alva Tom, his staff is feeling uneasy, leading some to consider leaving their roles. He emphasized the critical role his office plays in ensuring financial checks and balances. “And what I believe is happening is dangerous,” McCabe said, “It’s dangerous to the Navajo people. It’s dangerous to the Navajo people’s money.”
Hear Navajo Controller Sean McCabe speaking to the Navajo Nation Council’s Budget and Finance Committee on Oct. 8, 2025.
Following Nygren’s appointment of Alva Tom as the interim controller, the council accused Nygren of acting unlawfully in his attempt to replace McCabe. “I sat with [Nygren] one on one on many occasions and told him, ‘Be reasonable. Be reasonable. Be a leader,’” McCabe said. “This is not leadership, this is bullying tactics. What he tried to do to me, why? I’m not gonna speculate why he tried to fire me. I’m not going to accuse him of anything.”
Under Nygren’s presidency, which began in January 2023, the budget for his office has increased to $5.5 million, a significant rise from his predecessor, Jonathan Nez. As Nygren seeks re-election next year, the council has asked Acting Attorney General Colin Bradley to clarify the legal standing of the controller’s position. Bradley’s response remains confidential due to attorney-client privilege.
Navajo Nation Council Speaker Crystalyne Curley has filed an injunction to halt Nygren’s actions against McCabe, urging the Navajo Nation Court to issue a temporary restraining order. Curley stated, “We do need accountability, and that’s why we are now turning to the courts to help us make that decision, that it’s gone too far. We have to make sure that all of our employees are safe and that no one is above the law.”
Separately, Nygren’s decision to redirect funds initially designated for the 4 Corners K-9 Search and Rescue (4CK9SAR) has sparked further controversy. The council had allocated $250,000 to the nonprofit, but Nygren reallocated $229,000 for his travel and operational needs. In response, Nygren stated, “this statement is false and includes misinformation on the serious matter,” urging an end to “games” and “lies.”
Nevertheless, Nygren clarified that only $20,000 would be available to 4CK9SAR initially, with the remainder needed to support the Navajo Nation’s executive office, citing transportation expenses. The Office of the Controller had raised concerns about reassigning these funds, suggesting it may require committee approval. Budget and Finance Committee Chair Shaandiin Parrish remarked, “We will do everything within our authority to ensure that these funds are directed to the intended purpose and not the president’s travel. Our people deserve leadership that puts their safety first, not travel funds for themselves.”
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