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Rhode Island Casino Battle Heats Up

RHODE ISLAND – As reported by the Providence Business News: "The attack ads and news releases are flying, and the governor is trying to take the issue to court.

"It's playoff time in Rhode Island's casino season.

"In the run-up to the general election in November – when, barring intervention by the R.I. Supreme Court, voters will be asked to amend the state constitution to make way for a Harrah's Entertainment casino in West Warwick – interested parties for and against the plan have been stepping up their efforts to sway Rhode Islanders' opinions.

"Two new groups have emerged to represent the faces and advertising efforts of both sides: One is backed by Harrah's and its partner the Narragansett Indian Tribe, the other by opposing members of the business community.

"Angelique Pirozzi, campaign manager for the Harrah's-backed organization, Rhode Islanders for Job and Tax Relief, said last week that some facets of the group's campaign are still in the planning stages, though on several fronts, the push has begun.

"…Tim Costa, executive director for the new anti-casino group, Save Our State (SOS), said his side is at a disadvantage because of Harrah's involvement in the opposition group. SOS is looking to raise and spend $3 million in its advertising push, Costa said. In contrast, he said, Harrah's is likely to spend $10 million to $15 million.

"…The campaigns have heated up in the wake of two recent polls, the first showing an even split on the measure and the second showing that casino proponents have a sizeable gap to close…"

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