Mishewal Wappo Tribe's recognition bid clouded by casino claims

Friday, June 29, 2012  

The Mishewal Wappo Tribe could gain federal recognition as a result of a settlement with the Obama administration but politicians in California's wine valley are wary of a casino.

Chairman Scott Gabaldon told the House Subcommittee on Indian and Alaska Native Affairs on Wednesday that gaming isn't the only option for the tribe. But Rep. Mike Thompson (D-California) claimed a casino was definitely on the horizon.

"He’s a flat liar. I never admitted to building a casino,” Gabaldon told The Santa Rosa Press-Democrat in response.

The tribe was terminated by an act of Congress. But its lawsuit alleges the Interior Department didn't properly carry out the process.

Get the Story:
Alexander Valley tribal leader spars with Thompson over casino (The Santa Rosa Press-Democrat 6/29)

Committee Notice:
Oversight Hearing on Authorization, standards, and procedures for whether, how, and when Indian tribes should be newly recognized by the federal government (June 27, 2012)

Related Stories:
Mishewal Wappo Tribe testifies at hearing on federal recognition (6/26)