Indian Gaming > Governor not seen as obstacle in Ohio casino deal

February 17, 2005

Governor not seen as obstacle in Ohio casino deal

Ohio Gov. Bob Taft (R) says he's opposed to the expansion of gaming but his position won't necessarily hurt the Eastern Shawnee Tribe's casino plans, according to some law professors.

Blake Watson, a University of Dayton law professor and former Department of Justice attorney who work on Indian gaming, pointed out that Taft only has two years left in his final term. He said the Oklahoma tribe's chances of success "are becoming better and better."

James Hill, a political science professor at Central Michigan University and expert on Indian gaming law, said it's possible Taft might change his mind on the expansion issue. He said supporters of the casinos could give Taft "political cover" if that happens.

The tribe is eyeing as many as nine casino sites throughout the state.

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Law experts say tribe's chances look good (The Middletown Journal 2/17)
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Taft Weighs In on Indian Casino (WYTV 2/16)