The Schaghticoke Tribal Nation of Connecticut is accusing a Republican law firm with connections to White House of derailing its bid for federal recognition.

In court papers, the tribe says the Barbour Griffith & Rogers firm violated a court order that limits contact with the Interior Department. The tribe wants to know if lobbyists encouraged lawmakers or anyone else to contact the department about the recognition case.

The firm denies lobbying anyone about the controversy. Vice president Bradley Blakeman worked for the Bush-Cheney campaign and for the Bush White House.

The Bureau of Indian Affairs is writing a new decision for the tribe after a favorable one was thrown out. A ruling is due by October 12, The Hartford Courant reports.

Get the Story:
Tribe Alleges Deceit By Foes (The Hartford Courant 8/10)
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IBIA Decisions:
Eastern Pequot Tribal Nation | Schaghticoke Tribal Nation

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Federal Recognition Database V2.0 (July 2004)

Relevant Links:
Schaghticoke Tribal Nation - http://www.schaghticoke.com
Interior Board of Indian Appeals Decisions - http://www.ibiadecisions.com

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