Pact between Florida and Seminole Indians may be near listen

Republican Gov. Charlie Crist and the Seminole Indians are close to a deal allowing the tribe's casinos to offer Las Vegas-style slot machines - possibly even card games - with the potential to generate more than $100-million a year for the state.

A federal official told the Associated Press last night that an agreement between the state of Florida and the Seminole Tribe to allow expanded gambling on tribe-owned land could happen before the end of the month.

The tribe has proposed giving the state $50-million up front and at least $100-million annually in exchange for the rights to have Las Vegas-style slot machines, blackjack and baccarat.

Yesterday WMNF asked two Tampa Democrats if they thought the state should make a deal with Seminoles.

Former Congressman Jim Davis said no. But former Tampa City Councilman Bob Buckhorn, now a political consultant and television analyst, said Florida should get a piece of the gambling pie.

WMNF attempted several times today to try to speak with an official with the Indian Affairs bureau in Washington, but we were unsuccessful.