Cherokee Nation Awaits Court Decision on Controversial Arkansas Casino Project
Background of the Arkansas Casino Dispute
The Cherokee Nation is currently awaiting a significant court ruling that will shape the future of a casino project in Pope County, Arkansas, which has been delayed for years. Over a year ago, Cherokee Nation Entertainment (CNE), the gaming and hospitality division of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma, was granted exclusive rights to develop a casino in the area after being recognized as the sole qualified applicant by the Arkansas Racing Commission.
Legal Battles Over Licensing and Ballot Amendments
This opportunity came after a protracted seven-year legal struggle over the bidding process. The controversy focused on whether a former county judge’s endorsement held the same legal validity as that of a current judge. The Cherokee Nation emerged victorious in this legal dispute, securing the license for the casino.
However, the progress was soon halted. In November 2024, Arkansas voters approved Issue 2, a ballot measure sponsored by the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, operators of a competing casino located approximately 80 miles away. This amendment to the state constitution effectively revoked the casino license for Pope County, passing with 56% of the vote and stopping the Cherokee Nation’s development plans.
Cherokee Nation’s Legal Response
In response, Cherokee Nation Entertainment filed a lawsuit against the state of Arkansas, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, and the Arkansas Racing Commission. The tribe contends that revoking their license infringed upon their constitutional rights and that they have invested considerable time and money into the project over several years.
A spokesperson for CNE explained that the lawsuit seeks either reinstatement of the casino license or financial compensation for their economic losses incurred during the seven-year effort. The case awaits review by Judge D.P. Marshall Jr. in the Eastern District Court of Arkansas. Although an April ruling was anticipated, no decision has been made even after a three-month delay.
Plans for the Proposed Russellville Casino
If the Cherokee Nation prevails, they envision constructing the $300 million Legends Resort & Casino in Russellville. The planned facility would feature 1,200 slot machines, 32 table games, a sportsbook, a 200-room hotel, multiple dining options, a full-service spa, a conference center, and an outdoor entertainment area.
Currently, CNE manages the Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Tulsa and nine other Cherokee-branded casinos in Oklahoma. They also operate the Gold Strike Casino Resort in Tunica, Mississippi, marking their initial venture outside tribal lands. The Russellville project would represent their second expansion into commercial gaming beyond their reservations.