Narragansett chief questions state role in gaming

Tuesday, January 24, 2006  

The chief of the Narragansett Tribe accused Rhode Island Gov. Donald Carcieri (R) and his administration of hypocrisy for opposing the tribe's gaming plans while trying to help a slot machine parlor expand.

Chief Sachem Matthew Thomas reacted after it was disclosed that Carceri's economic development director approached the Newport Grand slot hall and suggested the owners "think bigger." The implication was that the state could help the facility expand by acquiring more land.

Carcieri has criticized the Narragansett proposal as helping an "out-of-state" company -- Harrah's Entertainment. Newport Grand is owned by a Florida-based company.

Get the Story:
Thomas criticizes Newport Grand proposal (The Providence Journal 1/24)
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Williamson: End state 'hypocrisy' on casinos (The Kent County Daily Times 1/23)
Casino support wavers (AP 1/23)