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Connecticut Governor Charges Local Politicians Using Scare Tactics

"`A lot of local politicians have been trying to stir people up with the talk of casinos in Ridgefield or Redding or Bethel or Danbury,' Rowland told reporters after a campaign speech before the Ridgefield Chamber of Commerce. "Casinos aren't the only issue."

"Rowland's comments came after he again emphasized that he has not flip-flopped on gambling since he supported a casino in Bridgeport seven years ago.

"…Later, he told the group that `somebody scared you guys pretty good' about casinos.

"Outside the Ridgefield community center, supporters of Bill Curry, the Democrats' candidate for governor, wore propeller beanies, held banners and handed out leaflets stating that Rowland has long supported casinos.

"Local municipal leaders of both parties say they are worried about the prospect of a casino as close as neighboring Danbury.

"…`The fact is that there is a concern that exists,' said Ridgefield First Selectman Rudy Marconi, a Democrat, who listened to Rowland Tuesday and who has taken the lead in organizing Fairfield County opposition to casinos.

"…On Monday, 10 Fairfield County towns joined 16 others from around the state and filed a legal brief supporting the attorney general's appeal of the recent federal recognition of the historical Eastern Pequots. The tribe wants to open a casino in eastern Connecticut.

"…Rowland said he will push Congress to reform the federal recognition process. He also said he supports appealing the federal Bureau of Indian Affairs' decision to recognize the historical Eastern Pequots this past June…"

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