The Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation and the Mohegan Tribe both say they are not connected in any way to a new "gaming" group that is challenging the federal recognition of the Shinnecock Nation of New York.

"Have absolutely nothing to do with them," Chuck Bunnell, the Mohegans' chief of staff, told The Norwich Bulletin.

"We are not affiliated with them in any way whatsoever," a spokesperson for the Pequots told the paper.

The calls itself the Connecticut Coalition for Gaming Jobs. Its spokesperson is a lobbyist who won't divulge the identities of any of its members.

The Shinnecock Nation's federal recognition was due to become final today. But the group's challenge, which was filed with the Interior Board of Indian Appeals, will delay the matter.

Get the Story:
Mohegans, Mashatucket Pequots deny link to casino jobs group (The Norwich Bulletin 7/19)

Federal Register Notice:
Final Determination for Federal Acknowledgment of the Shinnecock Indian Nation (June 18, 2010)

Related Stories:
Shinnecock Nation questions backing behind new 'gaming' group (7/16)
New 'gaming' group in Connecticut challenges Shinnecock Nation (7/15)
Editorial: Shinnecock Nation shouldn't go into gaming industry (7/6)
Shinnecock Nation sees opposition to casino from local groups (6/25)
Shinnecock Nation said to consider sites for potential casino (6/21)
New York governor cites 'hurdles' facing Shinnecock gaming (6/18)
New York governor works with Shinnecock Nation on casino (6/16)
Shinnecock Nation expects phone call on federal recognition (6/15)
Shinnecock Nation nears final decision on recognition bid (3/30)
Shinnecock Nation wins federal recognition ruling (12/15)
Shinnecock Nation awaits decision on federal status (12/9)
New York governor backs Shinnecock Nation (9/25)
Interview: Shinnecock Nation and federal recognition (06/12)
Economist: Recognition nears for Shinnecock Nation (6/11)
Connecticut tribes support Shinnecock recognition (6/5)
Shinnecock Nation meets with BIA over recognition (6/4)
Shinnecock Nation in DC to press for recognition (6/3)
Editorial: Shinnecock Nation recognition on horizon (6/1)
Blog: Shinnecock Nation eyes ultimate prize (6/1)
Shinnecock Nation open to several casino sites (5/29)
Column: Shinnecock Nation nears a milestone (5/28)
Shinnecock Nation ready to negotiate with state (5/28)
BIA agrees to decision on Shinnecock Nation (5/27)
Shinnecock Nation expects recognition decision (4/6)