"Gov. Brad Henry's compact negotiations with Oklahoma's 39 Indian tribes haven't been going very well. Henry has been attempting to establish new tobacco and gaming compacts.

Henry's attempt at negotiations quickly evolved into a torturous, sometimes contentious process. That is why only a small handful of tribes have embraced this approach after more than a year's time.

When tribal leaders raised legitimate concerns over tribal sovereignty issues in the compacts, Henry disrespected tribal leaders by calling these issues "petty differences." Not unlike the tobacco compact negotiations with Henry, negotiations over gaming machines at tribal casinos have strained relations with the majority of Indian tribes.

Oftentimes, incomplete information on an issue was provided to tribal leaders, if at all, but Henry expected tribal official feedback within a one-week deadline."

Get the Story:
Truman Carter: Governor's treatment of Indian leaders generated distrust (The Shawnee News-Star 2/5)

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