CNIGA represents almost half of California’s 110 recognized tribes. Thompson, one of the main initiative proponents, said later that while he will not move forward without majority tribal support, he’s not convinced CNIGA’s statement reflects most tribes’ interest in his proposal. This is another example of outside influences trying to divide and conquer Indian tribes. It is hard not to be offended when listening to these individuals speak. “The entire effort surrounding these initiatives was handled abhorrently by the initiative sponsors.
“Our opposition could not be more clear and is irrevocable,” CNIGA Chairman James Siva said in a statement.
The California Nations Indian Gaming Association, representing 52 tribes, said in an announcement Thursday afternoon that after meeting online with Kasey Thompson and Reeve Collins, the men pushing the idea, its members voted to oppose two proposed sports wagering initiatives filed with the California Attorney General’s Office in in October. After meeting with proponents of a new sports betting initiative for the 2024 ballot, California’s casino gaming tribes Thursday gave it a thumbs down and asked that they withdraw the plan.
