Wisconsin voters upset with the state's Indian gaming compacts shouldn't take it out on the Ho-Chunk Nation, The Wisconsin State Journal says in an editorial.

The paper says blame for "sweetheart deals" lies with Democratic Gov. Jim Doyle (D). "The state's top Democrat went along with tribes that padded party campaign coffers in 2002, all the while proclaiming that state taxpayers would see relief because the tribes would pay the state a lot more for their exclusive gambling rights," the paper says.

The paper criticizes "tribal slicksters" who "stacked the deck against the state" but says there is no reason to stop the expansion of the Ho-Chunk Nation's gaming enterprise. The tribe is seeking voter approval in Dane County for an agreement that would send $91 million to local communities but reduce the state's share by the same amount.

"If you're angry about the compacts, don't punish the tribe by voting against the referendum. Save that vote for the next gubernatorial election," the paper says.

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Editorial: Don't blame tribe for sharp dealing (The Wisconsin State Journal 2/17)