North Carolina lawmakers who are opposing a potential Catawba Nation casino accepted campaign contributions from the Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians, The Gaston Gazette reports.
Sen. Tom Apodaca (R) received $25,000 from the tribe, more than any other lawmaker in the state. Sen. Phil Berger (R) wasn't far behind, with $20,000 in donations from the tribe. The Cherokees have donated nearly $1.3 million to politicians in the state since 2004, according to FollowtheMoney.org. The spending came as the tribe negotiated a new Class III gaming compact that authorized card dealers. The compact also promised the tribe a zone of exclusivity in exchange for a share of revenues. The provision could be affected by another tribal casino in the state. The Catawbas are based in South Carolina but are looking across the border due to legal restrictions on gaming in their home state. Get the Story: