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Connecticut Tribe Hires $500,000 Lobbyist

WASHINGTON, DC – As reported by the Norwich Bulletin: " The Eastern Pequots of North Stonington describe themselves as "a small tribe from a small town." But when the tribe lobbied government officials for federal recognition, it hired top-money talent.

"Ron Kaufman, a Washington lobbyist with connections to the highest levels of the Republican Party, was paid $500,000 for helping the tribe gain access to federal lawmakers and teaching them how the Bureau of Indian Affairs decides whether to recognize tribes.

"…Federal recognition is the first step toward opening casinos that earn millions of dollars for tribes. Indian casino gaming has grown into a thriving industry with $12.7 billion in annual revenue.

"The Eastern Pequots, who say they are backed financially by a Southport golf course developer, want to open a casino in southeastern Connecticut. A final decision on federal recognition is expected in the next few months.

"…Many residents of southeastern Connecticut don't want another casino. The area already is home to the huge Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun Indian casinos, and small towns nearby have experienced increased traffic and higher crime rates since the casinos opened in the 1990s.

"…Kaufman is the brother-in-law of White House chief of staff Andrew Card and a member of an influential Washington lobbying firm, the Dutko Group.

"…Kaufman confirmed that he received $500,000 for his lobbying work for the Eastern Pequots. But he denied using his family ties to the White House to help the tribe…"

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