Arkansas Supreme Court Ruling Paves the Way for Casino Debate in Pope County
LITTLE ROCK (KATV) — On Thursday, the Arkansas Supreme Court made a significant ruling by denying a petition from the Cherokee Nation that sought to remove Issue 2 from the ballot for the upcoming November elections. This decision ensures that the citizens of Arkansas will have the opportunity to voice their opinion on whether to allow a fourth casino to be established in Pope County, potentially reshaping the gaming landscape of the state.
Understanding Issue 2
At the heart of this legal battle is Issue 2, a proposed amendment aimed at repealing the casino license awarded to the Cherokee Nation for a planned casino in Pope County. The proposed amendment stems from Amendment 100, enacted in 2018, which originally allowed for four casinos within the state. If passed, Issue 2 would not only nullify the casino license in question but would also require a countywide vote for any future casino licenses, rather than relying solely on approval from the Arkansas Racing Commission.
Hans Stiritz, a spokesperson for Local Voters in Charge—an advocacy group funded by the Choctaw Nation—expressed satisfaction with the court’s ruling. "This is a great day for the state of Arkansas," he said, emphasizing the importance of letting voters decide the fate of the casino initiative.
The Clash of Nations
The ongoing contest between the Cherokee and Choctaw Nations over casino rights in Pope County has become emblematic of larger economic interests within the region. Earlier this year, the Cherokee Nation was awarded the casino license, prompting Local Voters in Charge to push for Issue 2. The stakes are high, as both sides recognize the potential economic benefits that such establishments can bring.
While the Choctaw Nation rallies to repeal the license, the Cherokee Nation cites significant local support for their proposed Legends Resort and Casino. The Cherokee Nation has committed to an economic development agreement promising nearly $40 million to local cities, nonprofits, and educational institutions if the casino project moves forward.
Local Support vs. Opposition
Local officials in Pope County largely support the project, with 12 out of 13 quorum court members and all five mayors in favor. Natalie Ghidotti, vice-chair of Investing in Arkansas—a campaign committee backed by the Cherokee Nation—stressed the potential revenue benefits, asserting that the casino would be a tremendous generator for the local economy.
Conversely, opposition leaders contend that the push from the Choctaw Nation is driven by self-interest, intended to protect their existing casino, located just over an hour away from Pope County. Pope County Judge Ben Cross remarked that the reaction from the Choctaw Nation appears to be a strategic move to preserve their market share at the state line.
Accusations of Out-of-State Influence
A critical aspect of this debate has been the role of outside funding. Both sides have accused each other of being overly reliant on out-of-state gaming interests. Judge Cross criticized the Choctaw Nation for what he perceives as an effort to suppress competition, while Stiritz defended their funding, asserting that the Cherokee Nation’s involvement is rooted in promoting local voter rights.
The financial stakes are substantial: the Cherokee Nation has contributed approximately $2.8 million to the campaign supporting their license, while the Choctaw Nation has devoted about $5.6 million to the opposition campaign. As both sides prepare for the upcoming vote, these figures underscore the financial clout involved in the battle for gambling rights in Arkansas.
The Implications of the Vote
As Arkansans head to the polls, the implications of their vote on Issue 2 are significant. Should the measure pass, it will effectively eliminate the possibility of establishing a fourth casino unless another amendment is put forth—an arduous process that requires additional political mobilization and public support.
Voting "yes" on Issue 2 means terminating the plans for the Cherokee Nation’s casino in Pope County, while a "no" vote allows them to proceed. The upcoming election presents an opportunity for citizens to weigh the economic benefits against local governance and community character.
Conclusion
The Arkansas Supreme Court’s ruling has set the stage for a contentious debate that encompasses local interests, economic development, and the complex dynamics between two Native American nations. As voters prepare for the November ballot, the decision they make will not only affect the future of gambling in Pope County but will also resonate throughout the broader landscape of Arkansas’s gaming industry. The upcoming months will undoubtedly bring continued scrutiny and discussion as both sides strive to sway public opinion in their favor.
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