Political scandal clouds meeting of tribal gambling leaders

[deminks]

http://www.centredaily.com/mld/centredaily/business/13603435.htm

PALM SPRINGS, Calif. - The chairman of a Southern California Indian tribe that gave $10 million to indicted Washington lobbyist Jack Abramoff apologized Wednesday to other tribal leaders for the ensuing scandal that has tainted many tribes.

Worries about the potential impact of the Abramoff scandal were at the forefront as the three-day conference for casino-operating tribes started Wednesday. Tribal leaders from 23 states are here to debate policy, plan political strategy and hear sales pitches on everything from roast beef to casino security.

National Indian Gaming Association Chairman Ernie Stevens Jr. said Indian gambling opponents in Washington will try to "use Indian Country as a scapegoat" in the wake of the corruption scandal.

"But I'll tell you, no tribal leader ever agreed to be lied to or cheated or misguided," he said during opening remarks. "Never once have I seen Jack Abramoff in our camp."

"Now it is vital that tribal members themselves be the ones to walk the halls of Congress themselves and not send representatives," Miranda said, to loud applause.

[seemslikeadream]

1. Thanks for the post

:hi:

[deminks]

5. Thank you!

Looks like we posted identically at about the same time. :hi:

[brentspeak]

2. There's something I don't understand about Indian casinos

These places rake in millions and millions of dollars, yet reservations all over the U.S. look like shanty-towns. Where does all the money go to?

[Bobbieo]

3. Where does the casino money go?

I'm been writing a blog - Native Unity - for more than 2 years and find most of the casino money, goes first of all, for health and education to set up schools and clinics. Indians have the highest rate of diabetes in the nation. Housing is also near the top of the list but you must understand that not all tribes have casinos.

I also think if Abramoff had not scammed the tribes he dealt with so badly that this scandal never would have busted open. I have been covering the Native involvement with the lobbyist for almost a year and it is just now coming into public view.

The major emphasis for the blog this year is getting out the Native vote. If we can succeed and get them to vote the Democratic ticket, we just may be able to take back Congress. Abramoff has sure turned them against the Republicans.

[deminks]

4. I think that any help we Dems can provide will be

worthwhile. I think what has happened with the lobbyist is shameful, and we must not let this happen again. Thank you for your blog, and welcome to DU!

:hi: