Narragansett Tribe debates casino on PBS

Friday, August 11, 2006  

Matthew Thomas, the chief sachem of the Narragansett Tribe of Rhode Island, debated an opponent of the tribe's casino plan on PBS.

Thomas said the casino will generate jobs, revenue and property tax relief for state citizens. The tribe and partner Harrah's Entertainment are also touting the benefits gaming will bring to tribal members.

On the other side of the debate was Richard Oster, who recently resigned as head of an anti-casino group. Oster is not opposed to gaming but says any casino in the state should be opened to competitive bidding.

The tribe is asking voters to approve an amendment to the state constitution that authorizes a casino in the town of West Warwick. The issue is on the November ballot.

Get the Story:
High stakes debate on PBS (The Providence Journal 8/11)
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Casino campaign focuses attention on health care (AP 8/10)