The recent fundraiser for Republican gubernatorial candidate Bruce Blakeman, hosted by Seneca Nation President J.C. Seneca at the Seneca casino in Niagara Falls, has intensified the ongoing dispute regarding the gaming compact between the Seneca Nation and New York. During the event, Seneca criticized Democratic Governor Kathy Hochul over compact negotiations, highlighting a proposed agreement in principle that would eliminate revenue sharing with the state.
The presence of Blakeman at the fundraiser faced pushback from some Seneca citizens, who protested outside the casino. Concerns were particularly raised about Blakeman’s support for prediction markets, which they believe could undermine tribal gaming revenue. Protestors voiced their disapproval not only towards Blakeman but also regarding the Seneca leadership’s decision to support him, indicating a split among Seneca members regarding the political dealings.
While the Seneca Nation announced they had reached an agreement without revenue sharing, Governor Hochul countered this by stating that negotiations are still ongoing and productive discussions are continuing. She reassured communities like Buffalo, Niagara Falls, and Salamanca that the state would continue to support them financially, even if the new compact does not include revenue sharing.
Former Seneca Nation President Mike Schindler called for renewed negotiations between the state and the Nation to finalize the compact. Meanwhile, Blakeman criticized Hochul’s approach, questioning her willingness to negotiate.
With Election Day approaching, the situation surrounding the gaming compact has become a critical issue in the gubernatorial race, prompting questions about how a potential Blakeman administration would approach the agreement with the Seneca Nation.
