Oklahoma tribes not hurt by economic downturn

Friday, October 17, 2008  

Tribes in Oklahoma say their business hasn't been affected by the downturn in the national economy.

The Cherokee Nation, the Chickasaw Nation, the Muscogee Nation and the Quapaw Tribe have either opened new casinos or are planning major expansions. The state is already home to 101 gaming facilities, the most in any state.

"We're very aware of what's going on in the economy in the U.S., and to a large degree, Oklahoma and Texas are insulated," Brian Campbell, CEO of the Chickasaw Nation Division of Commerce, told the Associated Press. "It seems like everything's been holding up well. I know our business is doing great."

Tribes in Oklahoma generated $2.5 billion in revenues last year, second only to California and Connecticut, according to the Indian Gaming Industry Report.

Get the Story:
State Indian casinos cashing in, booming (AP 10/17)