Casino debate in Connecticut continues
GOP gubernatorial candidates assess the tribal casino situation in Connecticut and voice their opinions during a debate.
US.- The Mashantucket Pequot and Mohegan Sun (MMCT) project to open a tribal casino on non-tribal land in Connecticut seemed to be on track but is now facing hurdles as MGM’s opposition grows stronger. Last Wednesday, nine state gubernatorial candidates from the Republican Party (GOP) voiced their stance on the issue during a debate.
“A casino in Bridgeport could revitalize the city and draw people who might not visit other casinos in the state,” candidate David Walker said. He was supported by State Rep. Prasad Srinivasan, who considers that the resorts are no longer gambling-first properties, but “entertainment complexes” and “vacation destinations.”
Walker was clearly not standing by the tribe’s side, but favouring MGM’s US$675 million integrated resort project in Bridgeport. However, both he and fellow candidate Tim Herbst proposed the casino giant should work together with the MMCT: “The next governor needs to be collaborative in getting MGM and the tribes in a room to work out something that’s beneficial to all concerned,” Herbst said.
There’s still a long road ahead before we get to see what happens with the potential new casino in Connecticut. With a third option (joint venture) on the table and candidates on board with it, the debate seems to be just beginning.
