The gubernatorial recall election comes at a particularly opportune time for one of California's ascendant special interests -- Native American tribes that have exclusive rights to operate Las Vegas-style casinos in the state.
For months, Indian leaders have been frustrated by the slow pace of talks with Gov. Gray Davis over new gambling compacts that would help small tribes in generally remote locations.
At the same time, other tribes with large casinos are pressing for an increase in the number of slot machines allowed, and are growing concerned over what they see as attempts by the state and local governments to erode their authority as sovereign entities.
Now, with total gambling revenues of about $5 billion per year, California tribes are poised to exert significant influence in the Oct. 7 election. Since 1998, tribes have spent more money on state political campaigns -- in excess of $120 million -- than any other interest group.
Because donors are subject to limits on direct contributions, unlimited independent expenditures may become even more important in this truncated campaign. The tribes have access to large amounts of money and have demonstrated a willingness to spend on campaigns.
"The tribes were invisible until they started writing checks," said Jim Knox of California Common Cause. "There is no better illustration of the power of money in politics."
Interviews with tribal chairmen, consultants and political experts indicate that Democratic Lt. Gov. Cruz Bustamante is the favored candidate among some California Indian leaders.
"We're hoping for strong support," said Richie Ross, Bustamante's lead campaign strategist. "But there really has been no quantification of that. The tribes will be involved. I don't know to what extent."
Ross also serves as a lobbyist and political consultant for two major casino-operating tribes: the Barona and Viejas bands of Indians in San Diego County. The two tribes have donated a combined $487,500 to Bustamante since 1998, when he was elected lieutenant governor.
Tribal leaders are intrigued by the candidacy of Arnold Schwarzenegger and eager to learn his position on Indian gambling. Republican state Sen. Tom McClintock of Thousand Oaks has spoken out on behalf of tribal sovereignty and is viewed favorably by some tribes.
