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JUNE 1, 2001

The $300,000 two southern California tribes spent to oppose Los Angeles Mayoral candidate Antonio Villaraigosa is being scrutinized not just by political watchers but the tribes themselves.

The Soboba Band of Mission Indians is defending the $100,000 it spent on mailers critical of Villaraigosa. The tribe has cited Villaraigosa's stance on a gaming compact perceived as a threat to sovereignty.

The Morongo Band of Mission Indians is also defending its $200,000 expenditure on radio ads. But the tribe says it will no longer participate in the race.

Villaraigosa is running against City Atty. James K. Hahn. At a debate last night, Villaraigosa brought up the tribes' involvement, since a longtime Hahan supporters solicited tribes to contribute to the anti-Villaraigosa campaign.

Get the Story:
Final Debate an Angry One (The Los Angeles Times 6/1)
Tribes, mayoral candidate may face probe on ethics (The Palm Springs Desert Sun 6/1)

Related Stories:
Tribal involvement notable in L.A. race (5/31)