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Politics
FOX News: Wealthy tribes still get federal dollars


FOX News is running a video report questioning why "wealthy" tribes with casinos continue to receive federal "subsidies."

The report uses Cheryl Schmit of Stand Up for California as a source. Schmit says the San Manuel Band of Indians received $173,000 in federal funds 2001 and 2002 while earning $100 million from its gaming enterprise.

San Manuel chairman Derron Marquez is interviewed for the "We Report, You Decide" piece and says the tribe is trying to expand its "cash flow." Then the FOX News reporter says, "Some of that positive cash flow comes from the federal government."

The video switches to Schmit, who says, "The funds, let's not forget are the hard-earned tax dollars of U.S. citizens of this state and this nation." Schmit says federal funds should go to the "neediest Indians" but doesn't mention that tribes gave up millions of acres in land and valuable assets or that tribal members pay state and federal taxes.

Get the Story:
Wealthy Tribes Still Earn Federal Subsidies (FOX News 3/25)