This educational guide is based on the linked primary sources. It is not a Court publication, is not affiliated with the Court, and is not legal advice.
In brief
Overview
The United States argued that there is no cause of action under the Tucker Act because no violation of any act of Congress or executive regulation exists.
According to United States, the United States alleged that the Secretary of the Interior had private conversations with representatives of Peabody Coal to discourage approval of a $20 rate.
According to Respondent (Paul E. Frye), the Navajo Nation, through respondent Paul E. Frye, argued that violations of trust duties by the federal government give rise to a claim for money damages in the Court of Federal Claims, citing the Mitchell II principle.
According to Petitioner (Navajo Nation), the Navajo Nation alleged that a decision was forthcoming that would hurt them and asked the Court to stop it, attributing responsibility to the Secretary.
Court records show that the tribe learned from Washington that they were requested to return to negotiations, and Secretary Hodel preferred negotiation over a final decision on the merits of the appeal.
Background and question before the Court
Oral argument in this case took place before the Supreme Court at 11:03 a.m.
Justice O'Connor asked whether there is some other possible cause of action.
What each side argues
United States (Petitioner)
According to United States, there is no cause of action under the Tucker Act because no violation of any act of Congress or executive regulation exists.
Navajo Nation (Respondent)
According to Respondent (Paul E. Frye), violations of trust duties by the federal government give rise to a claim for money damages in the Court of Federal Claims, as established in Mitchell II.
What happened at oral argument
Oral argument was held at 11:03 a.m. before the Supreme Court.
Justice O'Connor asked whether there is some other possible cause of action.
What the Court decided
Why it matters
Terms to know
No glossary terms are available for this guide.
Primary sources
Read the source materials on the official site or open the immutable repository copy used for this guide.
- ceb34a2fbea7d89cf134-r1-cc44c5520d408643.pdforal argument transcript
Guide generated September 19, 2026. Automated validation accepted this version.