Battle Between Connecticut Tribes And MGM Gets Ugly With New Ad

The escalating conflict between Connecticut tribes and MGM Resorts is intensifying. Following a recent meeting between employees of the two tribal-owned Connecticut casinos and lawmakers, the tribes have released a new video that critiques MGM as a business.

Attack ad features MGM executives

In the 30-second advertisement, various MGM executives are seen talking about MGM Springfield in Massachusetts. The initial clip showcases MGM CEO James Murren expressing his desire for people to bring their money to the establishment. It is believed that Murren is referring to the MGM Springfield project, which tribes argue could potentially lead to the loss of around 9,000 casino jobs in Connecticut.

In the second clip, MGM Resorts President Bill Hornbuckle asserts that they are in an advantageous position to enter Hartford and take proactive measures.

Hornbuckle’s statement originates from a 2015 Bloomberg News interview, where he discusses the company’s firm opposition to the establishment of a third tribal-owned casino in East Windsor, CT. This prospective property is situated merely 22 miles away from the MGM Springfield site.

In an effort to strengthen its case, MGM employed the services of ex-Attorney General Eric Holder during the legal dispute. The focal point of their argument revolves around the state’s lack of jurisdiction in granting the tribes an exclusive casino monopoly throughout the entire state.

During the Bloomberg interview, Hornbuckle appears to imply that MGM is prepared to challenge the proposed casino both legally and financially. The advertisement features Hornbuckle’s voice narrating while a map demonstrates the close proximity of Springfield to CT casinos Foxwoods and Mohegan Sun. The intention of the ad seems to be to convey that MGM is criticizing the entire casino industry, rather than solely focusing on the East Windsor proposal.

The underlying message conveyed in the advertisement is that MGM does not prioritize the well-being of Connecticut. Consequently, granting the company an opportunity to bid for a potential new casino in the state is unwarranted.

The video is titled “Listen” and here is the complete content.

MGM says MMCT released ad because they are “losing”

The advertisement can be found on the official website of the Mashantucket Pequot and the Mohegan Tribes (MMCT). Additionally, several local media outlets have also featured the video as a news story.

MGM swiftly responded by firing back. Uri Clinton, legal counsel for MGM, conveyed to the Hartford Courant:

The actions taken by MMCT tonight resemble those of a campaign that is in a losing position – resorting to attacks. Although it is somewhat disheartening to witness, it is not surprising given the circumstances surrounding their decline.

Clinton possesses evidence indicating that the tribes are experiencing a decline. Furthermore, state officials are engaging in discussions with various casino companies, such as Caesars Entertainment and Pinnacle, even if MGM fails to secure the Connecticut contract. This suggests that the state is willing to consider alternative proposals.

East Windsor has expressed its support for MMCT to construct the casino, and the local government is currently collaborating with MMCT to finalize a casino agreement. However, this agreement has already faced criticism from MGM, who is raising concerns about the equity of maintaining fixed property tax rates for a period of five years.

The photo credit for this image goes to Ritu Manoj Jethani of Shutterstock.com.