August 31, 2023
ALLEGANY TERRITORY, SALAMANCA, N.Y. – Following multiple media reports that Governor Kathy Hochul is now involved in gaming compact negotiations with the Seneca Nation, Seneca Nation President Rickey Armstrong, Sr. issued the following statement:
“For the past year, the Seneca Nation has been trying to negotiate a fair and reasonable Class III gaming compact with New York State’s appointed negotiating team. Last evening, I saw media reports in Rochester and Buffalo stating that Governor Hochul is now involved in the State’s negotiation efforts.
I have not had any direct communication or meeting with Governor Hochul since I came into office in November. If she is now willing to meet with Seneca Nation leadership, I would welcome the opportunity. A new Seneca compact is critical to the Western New York economy and to the thousands of people we employ. After today, we have approximately 100 days until our gaming compact expires. I am hopeful that direct dialogue with Governor Hochul could help move our discussions toward a successful conclusion that protects the substantial jobs and economic benefits the Seneca Nation has delivered to Western New York for the past two decades.”
