California Assemblyman Faces Scrutiny Over Votes for Tribal Gambling Bill

Assemblymember Evan Low of California has recently found himself in the center of a firestorm surrounding the debate over Senate Bill 549, a bill that would allow Native American tribes to litigate action against private card rooms for operating illegal card games. 

Assemblymember Low’s Yes Vote on Gambling Bill Sparks Debate Over $60,000 Tribal Campaign Support

Although he represents a district that stands to lose a fair share of taxes if the proposed bill goes through, Low has twice gone on record voting yes on the bill that is presently awaiting the decision of the California governor, Gavin Newsom.

One of the sponsors for the proposed legislation should be the Viejas Band of Kumeyaay Indians, who have already placed assets of $60,000 in digital radio advertisement appealing for support for Low’s congressional campaign, reported California media outlet CalMatters. 

This has raised the issue of political payback as some critics have stated that the vote by Low was conditioned by the financial support extended by the tribe over his campaign. Sean McMorris, a program manager for California Common Cause, raised concerns that the tribe’s ad buy was likely a reward for Low’s support. While there is no proof of any conspiracy being perpetrated, McMorris claimed that the tribe would never have given a dollar legally without a vote in support of it by Member Low.

Tauri Bigknife, the attorney general for the Viejas tribe, dismissed these claims. He stressed that their backing of Low stemmed from a long-term connection, not an effort to purchase votes. Bigknife highlighted that the tribe had given money to Low’s campaign before he voted on the bill. Open Secrets reports that the Viejas tribe has given at least $9,900 to Low’s congressional campaign separate from the radio ads.

Senate Bill 549 Ignites Controversy as Tribes and Cardrooms Clash Over Gambling Rights

Senate Bill 549 has sparked a heated debate. Native American tribes such as the Viejas, claim they should be the only ones allowed to offer games like blackjack and pai gow poker. They say cardrooms are breaking the law by hosting these games. 

On the flip side, cardrooms and several California cities do not want the bill to pass. They worry it could hurt local income. Take San Jose, for example. The city, that Evan Low represents, gets about $30 million each year from cardrooms. These funds help pay for important services like police and firefighters. Those against the bill are concerned that if tribes can sue, it might put this money at risk and lead to people losing their jobs.

Low’s backing of the bill has sparked opposition in his district. A billboard close to the San Jose International Airport paid for by cardrooms, claimed he put tribal interests ahead of his constituents. The sign cautioned voters about possible cuts to public safety funds and job losses if the bill becomes law.In spite of the bad press, Low’s team maintains that his choices stem from his dedication to what’s best for his district and California. His spokesperson pointed out that the ads were an independent expense and not linked to Low’s campaign plan.