The Mashpee Wampanoag Tribe of Massachusetts has hired former Rep. William Delahunt (D-Massachusetts) as its lobbyist.

The tribe has a long relationship with Delahunt, who left Congress in January after 14 years. He helped the tribe during its quest for federal recognition.

“Bill has fought for our Tribe for years, defending us and advancing our interests a Member of Congress when few people would step forward on our behalf,” Chairman Cedric Cromwell said in a press release.  “Our Tribe was fortunate to have him as our Congressman, and we are excited to have his voice and continued advocacy on our behalf.” 

The tribe's biggest obstacle right now is the U.S. Supreme Court decision in Carcieri v. Salazar. The ruling prevents the Bureau of Indian Affairs from placing land in trust for tribes that weren't "under federal jurisdiction" in 1934.

The tribe didn't gain recognition until 2007and its land-into-trust application has been stalled at the BIA for nearly three years.

Get the Story:
Delahunt to lobby for Mashpee Wampanoag (The Cape Cod Times 3/10)
Wampanoags hire Delahunt for casino push (The Boston Globe 3/10)