Officials try to stop tribe from offer poker at casino

The state of Idaho constitution prohibits the game of poker so state officials have gone to federal court to stop the Coeur d’Alene Tribe from offering the game at its northern Idaho casino.
The casino, which draws heavily from the Spokane, Washington, market area, had announced plans to begin offering Texas Hold ‘Em and Omaha last week.
“It’s my duty,” said Gov. C.L. “Butch” Otter, “to enforce and defend the constitution and the laws of Idaho. Despite discussions with tribal leaders and our best efforts at avoiding this situation, we have no choice but to act.”
His position was strongly supported by Attorney General Lawrence Wasden, who will lead the legal charge against the tribe.
Although no comments were forthcoming from tribal officials over the state’s announcement, tribal officials in the past have stated that in their opinion poker is a game of skill, not chance, and the players compete against each other, not the house. Therefore, poker would not violate state law.