The Menominee Indian Tribe’s push to build a casino in Kenosha County picked up an endorsement today from Racine County Executive Jim Ladwig.
Ladwig, a potentially influential Republican politician, endorsed the proposed Kenosha casino at a courthouse news conference after winning a pledge from the Menominee that at least 15 percent of the new jobs go to Racine County residents.
“My focus is Racine County, and I believe this is a classic case of good government putting the people first,” said Ladwig.
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Ladwig is close to the top Republican in the state Assembly, Speaker Robin Vos (R-Burlington). Ladwig also has the ear of Gov. Scott Walker, whom he urged to take a more active role in getting the Menominee and the Potawatomi to resolve their difference: “It’s difficult for me to tell the governor what he has to do or what he doesn’t have to do, but I’m sure that would be welcome from all parties involved.”
The Potawatomi oppose the Kenosha casino because they fear it would take away business from their gambling hall in Milwaukee – a concern Ladwig believes could be resolved through negotiations. Walker has said he won’t approve the Kenosha casino unless the tribes reach a consensus.
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