Both tribes in Connecticut deny connection to new 'gaming' group

Monday, July 19, 2010  

The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and the Mohegan Tribe both say they are not connected in any way to a new "gaming" group that is challenging the federal recognition of the Shinnecock Nation of New York.

"Have absolutely nothing to do with them," Chuck Bunnell, the Mohegans' chief of staff, told The Norwich Bulletin.

"We are not affiliated with them in any way whatsoever," a spokesperson for the Pequots told the paper.

The calls itself the Connecticut Coalition for Gaming Jobs. Its spokesperson is a lobbyist who won't divulge the identities of any of its members.

The Shinnecock Nation's federal recognition was due to become final today. But the group's challenge, which was filed with the Interior Board of Indian Appeals, will delay the matter.

Get the Story:
Mohegans, Mashatucket Pequots deny link to casino jobs group (The Norwich Bulletin 7/19)

Federal Register Notice:
Final Determination for Federal Acknowledgment of the Shinnecock Indian Nation (June 18, 2010)

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