Indians raise $7.3 mil. to support measure

Friday, Jan. 14, 2000 | 10:57 a.m.

THE ASSOCIATED PRESS

LOS ANGELES -- Indian tribes have raised $7.3 million to support a March ballot initiative that would expand gambling on reservations, while opponents say their pockets are empty, campaign finance reports show.

The tribes raised their $7.3 million by Dec. 31 and have already spent $5.8 million, mostly on television ads that began airing last month.

Meantime, Sacramento campaign consultant Leo McElroy, who is attempting to lead the anti-gambling effort, said he has only $1,800 in funds, according to the reports filed Thursday.

"I don't think I can win it," McElroy said, adding that he has little hope of raising more money to fight Proposition 1A.

He said Nevada gambling interests, which unsuccessfully fought a similar 1998 initiative, have refused to contribute to his campaign.

"Las Vegas knows we're here," McElroy said. "We've put the word out. I understand their reluctance. They got the living hell kicked out of them the last time."

Though tribal leaders have a clear advantage this time, many maintain the fight isn't over until all the votes are counted March 7.

"I don't think the tribes want to take anything for granted," said Waltona Manion, spokeswoman for the Yes-on-Proposition 1A campaign. "This is still a fight for their economic survival."