California Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) could make or break a ballot initiative to allow non-Indian gaming, one of his top advisors says.

George Gorton is promoting the initiative on behalf of card clubs and racetracks that want to end the tribal monopoly on slot machines. He says the bid could be hurt depending on which way Schwarzenegger goes.

If Schwarzenegger is able to secure new gaming compacts, he will likely oppose the measure. Talks with a small group of tribes could produce an agreement that would send $1 billion to the state's coffers.

A Los Angeles Times poll showed that a majority of voters do not support the card club petition.

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Stakes high in political battle over Indian gaming revenues (The San Jose Mercury News 5/3)