McCain says gaming has 'long history of corruption'

Tuesday, October 25, 2005  

Citing the gaming industry's "long history of corruption," Sen. John McCain told tribal leaders on Monday that their casinos need stronger regulation and oversight.

McCain, the chairman of the Senate Indian Affairs Committee, spoke at Portland State University in Oregon. Tribal leaders urged him not to reopen the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act but he was insistent.

"We have a difference of opinion," McCain said, the Associated Press reported. "‘This is an industry with a long history of corruption, so we'll just have to respectfully disagree."

Joining McCain at the meeting were Sen. Ron Wyden (D-Oregon) and Sen. Gordon Smith (R-Oregon). Tribal leaders said the senators should do more to educate the public about the suffering of tribes.

"I can't go back and change history," McCain responded, the AP reported.

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McCain says Indian casino regulations need review (AP 10/25)