Wright says she won't comment on the politics of the project.
"We've tried to keep out of it," Wright says. "We have an agreement with Governor Weld."
Robson defends Roosevelt's position as the best alternative for the region--if not specifically for the Wampanoags.
"He feels we can do much better for the people of New Bedford by providing real economic opportunities," Robson says, "jobs you can bring a family up on."
At the moment, the deck is stacked against Roosevelt, though; the latest Boston Globe/WBZ poll shows Weld leading in the race, 62 to 26 percent.
Plans Continue
Meanwhile, the Wampanoags continue to plan what their new casino would look like. State-of-the art motion simulators and virtual reality rides are part of the most recent blueprints. The council has not yet decided if Native American history and culture will figure into the attractions.
Some competition will exist for the casino. The only other gaining center in New England, the Pequot tribe's Foxwoods in Ledyard, Conn., is far away, but it is the largest grossing casino in the world. Madison says he is confident business at the Wampanoags' casino would flourish.
But what if something happens a federal denial, a Roosevelt victory and the Wampanoags shoot snake-eyes?
"We're going to be poor forever," Madison says.
Today
The Wampanoags pin their hopes for economic development and tribal unity on casino gambling
Monday
Legal gambling becomes a key moral and political issue in a tough gubernatorial campaign.
Tuesday
The existing New England gambling Industry looks at a future with some new competition.