A release states the tribe has been "exploring the possibility of developing a single-site gaming and entertainment center in accordance with the 1988 Indian Gaming Regulatory Act." The tribe is the only one in the state to have federal recognition--a requirement if it wants to build a casino.

Beverly Wright, chairwoman of the Wamponoag Tribe Council, tells GlobeSt.com that the tribe has land for a casino under contract in southeastern Massachusetts although she would not disclose its location. In the statement, Wright emphasizes that a casino could make a difference on the economic conditions in the state. "If the Wampanoag Tribe is granted the right to build a single site casino in Southeastern Massachusetts our compact with the state will call for an annual multi million dollar contribution of facility revenues to the Commonwealth." Legislative approval would still be required for a "full-blown" casino, notes Wright, but "that's why we did the poll."

According to the poll, conducted by The Mellman Group and Public Opinion Strategies, 60% of voters in the state favor the construction and operation of a single-site Indian casino somewhere in Massachusetts. After hearing positive arguments in favor of a casino—such as increases in tax dollars and in the creation of jobs—that support goes up to 69%. The poll also indicates that a majority of Massachusetts residents have visited some sort of gaming facility.