Beebe Against Fort Smith Casino

Governor Mike Beebe is against the creation of an Indian Casino in Fort Smith. He says that not only would it cost the people of the state money – as it would take tax dollars from them – but the people of the state do not want it, which would therefore subject the will of the many to the needs of the few.

He says that the administration before him didn’t want it, and neither does he. Former Governor Mike Huckabee sent a letter to the US Interior Department telling them that he was opposed to the casino, as were the people of the state.

Beebe says he is planning on writing a similar letter to the federal government telling them that he opposes the plan as well – and he has the backing of the residents of Arkansas. He says he will be supporting the formal records of the past administration.

The United Keetoowah Band of Cherokees has petitioned the state to allow them to bring in a casino on their land in Fort Smith, but the state has been fighting them. However, since residents did allow games of skill into their racetracks, they are going to have a hard time keeping the tribe out.



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