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California readies for political showdown

SACRAMENTO, California – As reported by the San Diego Union Tribune: "New gambling agreements for five of the state's richest tribes sailed through the Senate Thursday, setting up a showdown in the Assembly, which has refused to approve the deals that could bring another major wave of casino expansion.

"Moments after the votes, a prominent Assembly Democrat said the compacts' rapid run through the Senate had done nothing to soften stiff opposition on the other side of the Capitol.

"…Nonetheless, Republican Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger urged the Assembly to act quickly on the pacts, which his administration said could generate billions of dollars for the state over the 23 years before they would expire in 2030.

"…Assembly Democrats blocked the compacts last summer, refusing to ratify the complex, long-term agreements that had been dumped on them in the waning days of a two-year session.

"The standoff has since become a compelling saga that pits one of the state's new political powers, big gaming tribes, against one of its rising political stars, Speaker Nunez, and organized labor, an established political force critical to Democrats…"

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