March 15, 2005 - Governor Tim Pawlenty wants the state to partner with three northern Minnesota Indian tribes on a $550 million dollar Twin Cities casino. Profits would be split between the state and the White Earth, Leech Lake and Red Lake Ojibwe bands. The plan has launched a high-profile debate in the Legislature. It's also sparked a growing debate among northern tribal members. Some don't trust the state; they worry the plan is a bad deal for the tribes. As Mainstreet Radio's Tom Robertson reports, members of the Red Lake band may get a chance to vote the deal up or down.
November 18, 2004 - Mainstreet Radio’s Annie Baxter reports that The Mille Lacs Band is stepping out of negotiations with Governor Pawlenty over a casino profit-sharing partnership. The band made the announcement in a letter sent to the governor.