I was not one of the nonbelievers,” Chairman Wesaw said. “There were many who did not believe we could negotiate a gaming compact with Indiana. Want more Native News? Get the free daily newsletter today. Holcomb became governor and was open for discussions with the tribe. After Pence became vice president of the United States, Gov. The tribe moved forward and opened the casino as a Class II facility with limited the type of electronic gaming machines and allowed no gaming tables.
During former vice president Mike Pence’s time as governor of Indiana, he would not even enter into negotiations with the tribe to operate a Class III license. Stevens, Jr.Īll three spoke of the historic significance of the casino obtaining Class III gaming through the state compact. Holcomb and National Indian Gaming Association Chairman Ernest L. The excitement was shared by Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians Tribal Council Chairman Matthew Wesaw, who also serves as CEO of the tribe’s gaming authority, along with Indiana Governor Eric J. There was excitement in the air on Thursday morning as the Four Winds South Bend casino unveiled its Class III gaming after a compact was signed between the Pokagon Band of Potawatomi Indians Gaming Authority and the State of Indiana.
