Affie Ellis (néeBurnside; born c. 1979/1980) is an American politician who serves in the Wyoming Senate from the 8th district as a member of the Republican Party. She is a member of the Navajo Nation and is the first Native American to serve in the Wyoming Senate.
Early life
Affie Burnside was born to Jim and Lenoa Burnside, both of whom were born on the Navajo Reservation. She married Dennis Ellis, with whom she had three children.[1][2][3]
From 2000 to 2004, Ellis worked as a legislative aid to Senator Craig L. Thomas and was in charge of Indian, public lands, and housing issues.[1] On January 6, 2004, Ellis was appointed to serve as Director of Congressional and Public Affairs for the National Indian Gaming Commission.[2] In 2010, she was appointed by Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to serve on the Tribal Law and Order Commission after being recommended by Senator John Barrasso.[5][6]
During Ellis' tenure in the Wyoming Senate she has served on the Revenue committee.[10] During the 2018 Wyoming gubernatorial election she endorsed Sam Galeotos during the Republican primary.[11]
Electoral history
2016 Wyoming Senate 8th district Republican primary[7]