A slight majority of residents in southern California oppose new gaming compacts that would allow five tribes to expand their casinos, The Riverside Press-Enterprise reports.

When asked whether the number of slot machines should increase, stay the same or go down, 66 percent want them to stay the same or go down. Only 33 percent supported an increase.

When asked about the deals, 54 percent said they were opposes. Only 41 percent said they supported the compacts.

When told that the deals would bring in additional revenue, respondents were evenly divided. Fourty-six percent said they supported the compacts while 47 percent said they were opposed.

Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger (R) signed the compacts with the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians, the Morongo Band of Mission Indians, the San Manuel Band of Mission Indians, the Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians and the Sycuan Band of Kumeyaay Indians. The tribes operate some of the more successful casinos in the state and would be able to add more slot machines if the agreements win state and federal approval.

Get the Story:
Poll finds Inland skepticism on Indian casino pacts (The Riverside Press-Enterprise 6/6)
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Tribal leaders return to pushing gambling compacts (The Palm Springs Desert Sun 6/5)