Gaming interests in Alabama donated $2.6 million to Alabama politicians and campaigns in 2006, the most of any group.

The owner of a dog track and the Poarch Band of Creek Indians were the largest donors, according to The Birmingham News. Milton McGregor gave more than $1.8 million in 2006, while the tribe contributed $513,500.

"In 2005 and 2006 it became evident to the tribe that in order to participate in the legislative process we needed to become more involved. Of course this was done by hiring the necessary Montgomery representation but also making political donations to various campaigns," Robert McGhee, the tribe's governmental relations adviser, told the News.

The tribe has sought to negotiate a Class III compact but state governors have refused. The tribe's Class II games have been questioned by some state politicians.

Get the Story:
Gambling interests gave $2.6M in '06 elections (AP 7/9)
Betting on candidates: Gambling interests give nearly $2.6 million to campaigns (The BIrmingham News 7/5)