The Republican candidate for governor of New York is trying to make gaming by out-of-state tribes an issue in the race.

At a recent debate, Democrat Eliot Spitzer said he opposed gaming by tribes that are not presently based in New York. "I don't believe out-of-state tribes should be here, and they won't be here under my administration," he said.

But his campaign later clarified that his position doesn't apply to the Wisconsin and Oklahoma tribes with land claims in the state. "As long as there's a nexus, a clear connection with New York," his spokesperson said.

Republican John Faso seized on the remarks. "By any definition, the Wisconsin Oneidas, the Seneca-Cayugas of Oklahoma and the Stockbridge Munsees of Massachusetts are out-of-state tribes," he was quoted as saying -- although the Stockbridge-Munsee Band of Mohicans is based in Wisconsin.

Spitzer, however, defended his stance by saying that prior governors felt the same way. Outgoing Gov. George Pataki (R) was initially opposed to out-of-state tribes but changed his mind when he signed deals with them.

Spitzer currently serves as attorney general of New York.

Get the Story:
Faso says Spitzer flip-flopped on tribes, casinos (The Rochester Democrat and Chronicle 10/24)
Capitol Confidential: Out of state, still connected (The Albany Times-Union 10/23)