It appears that the speaker’s priorities are indeed questionable. What about something acceptable to the CITIZENS of the CNMI who have already resoundingly rejected casino gambling on Saipan? The interests of the people should certainly override that of “investors” as well as the personal interests of those supporters of gambling.
Additionally, if anyone thinks that supporting gambling will be a money-making proposition, than go to Tinian and see how many (or few) people are playing there. They are barely staying afloat. What justification is there to say that gambling on Saipan will bring in hoards of avid gamblers who will suddenly add millions of dollars to the CNMI’s coffers? This is truly a foolish pipe dream.
One also has to wonder what will happen to our sister islands if gambling came to Saipan. It doesn’t take a rocket scientist to figure out that they would be adversely affected. What a slap in the face to Tinian and Rota, both struggling financially.
So, we have a bill that the citizens don’t want, for a casino that will likely flop, and if initiated would hurt Tinian and Rota. But if it makes the investors happy, that’s all that matters…right?
One has to wonder who will really be the winners and losers if this insane bill passes.
BILL WEISS
Capital Hill, Saipan
