"Gov. Tim Pawlenty's attempt to get a share of Indian gambling dollars flowing into state coffers took him to the White Earth Chippewa reservation in northwestern Minnesota on Thursday. It was a smart turn.

That trip, and the words spoken that day, represent a marked improvement over the tactic the governor was employing three months ago. In October, Pawlenty demanded a huge chunk of Indian casino revenues -- $350 million a year -- and broadly hinted that if it was not forthcoming, Las Vegas casino competition would be allowed in the state.

On Thursday, the governor's message and tone were much more respectful -- and the three tribes represented responded in kind. Their public comments were replete with references to understanding, cooperation and partnership."

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Editorial: A better bet/Deal with northern tribes first (The Minneapolis Star Tribune 1/9)
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