31.   The tribe fought a protracted battle to win federal recognition and gain the right to operate a casino on its reservation in Ledyard.

32.   Their application for federal recognition was rejected at first.

33.   Then, with reelection less than two months away, Clinton signed a law that denies federal recognition of gay and lesbian marriages.

34.   This despite the fact that the Ramapoughs applied for federal recognition nine years before the federal Indian Gaming Regulatory Act became law.

35.   This disqualified them for federal recognition, which could be the basis for claiming the right to operate a casino.

36.   Under federal law, a tribe that has won federal recognition can open a casino on tribal lands with little interference.

37.   Two tribes in Connecticut have gained federal recognition and have entered the casino business.

38.   Up stepped a tribe that had just gained federal recognition, the Mashentuckett Pequot of Connecticut.

39.   Van Dunk says that the tribe is struggling, and sure, it could use the health and other benefits that come with federal recognition.

40.   Without federal recognition, it would be difficult for tribes to survive.