Wisconsin governor denies influence on casino

Thursday, March 8, 2007  

Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle (D) says $100,000 in campaign contributions from an indicted businessman won't influence his decision on the Menominee Nation's off-reservation casino.

Doyle accepted the money from Dennis Troha, a former partner in the Menominee casino. Troha pulled out of the deal, selling his share to the Mohegan Tribe of Connecticut, prior to being indicted for fraud and lying to the FBI.

Under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, Doyle has the power to approve or reject the casino. The Bureau of Indian has to give its approval as well.

The Menominee project is being reviewed by BIA officials in Washington. The tribe is one of about two dozen that have received letters from the agency, warning them about the dangers of "reservation shopping."

Get the Story:
Doyle: Casino not tied to gifts (AP 3/8)
Feds say no to Kenosha and Beloit casinos (Wheeler News Service 3/7)
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