Oregon tribe fires at Governor
Governor Brown used to oppose casinos but recently changed her mind and some tribes are calling her “hypocritical.”
US.- Back in 2016, Kate Brown was named Governor of Oregon as John Kitzhaber resigned and used to be against more casinos opening in the state. However, she recently voiced her support for a gambling expansion through the Oregon Lottery, which is projected to offer “scratch tickets, jackpot games and keno at a travel center operated by the Cow Creek Tribe.”
Though her renewed support for the gambling segment may appear positive for the industry, the Coquille Tribe has accused her of favouring tribes which contributed to her 2016 campaign for the special election through which she got to be elected as Governor. According to them, Governor Brown is being hypocritical on tribal gaming and chairwoman of the Coquille Indian Tribal Council, Brenda Meade, said: “She preaches about opposing casino proliferation. Meanwhile, her administration is scheming to increase the money flowing to the lottery and her favourite tribe.”
Two years ago, the Coquille tribe was denied a request to use electronic bingo machines at a bowling alley in Medford. However, after the state favoured the Cow Creek Tribe, they called the agreement as the latter contributed with over US$115k to the governor’s campaign.
“Why weren’t all Oregon tribes included in (the gambling expansion) conversation, instead of just the one that makes big campaign contributions?” Ms Meade asked.
