Governor Blanco's Vision For A Stronger New Orleans
"I have never believed that gambling should be the base on which to build our economy." -Gov. Kathleen Blanco, Louisiana
Gov. Kathleen Blanco of Louisiana told New Orleans' Mayor Ray Nagin that she will not approve his proposal for inland casinos to "revitalize his devastated city."
Gov. Blanco continues to walk in the ranks of honorable governors who seek the wellbeing of their citizenry — not merely more money, more casinos and another term in office. Bravo to Gov. Blanco for seeking long-term stability, reconstruction and the preservation of Louisiana rather than the quick and easy lure of gambling's false promises and disingenuous economic recovery.
If New Orleans gambling is such a robust contributor to Louisiana's economy and quality of life, wouldn't you think Gov. Blanco might have initiated casino reconstruction already? No, she's seen first-hand how gambling's devastation burdens her state and people. Gambling is the last thing New Orleans needs in the midst of such a calamity.
–Gov. Kathleen Blanco
New Orleans families need food, water, clothes, shelter and medical care—not poker. Men, women, and children need to spend their money wisely if they are to survive in this desperate time—not waste hundreds or thousands of dollars at slot machines. New Orleans needs massive reconstruction, innovative engineering and many workers to rebuild—not gambling addiction to destroy marriages and families. The poor need to be employed, not to be fleeced by the gambling industry. Casinos will draw much needed money from the pockets of those who can least afford to lose their money—a casino is the last building New Orleans needs in the wake of Katrina's wrath.
If Gov. Blanco continues to repair Louisiana—specifically New Orleans—without gambling expansion, Louisiana will be much healthier and more stable in the long run. This model is contrasted by states like Mississippi where state government is yielding to short-term gambling revenues, hollow promises and high-powered casino politicians.
Citizens of Louisiana will thank Gov. Blanco for her wisdom and foresight, desiring a stronger and vibrant state where families can thrive without the peril of inflated gambling.
Notable Clips:
From the Associated Press, "Governor Opposes New Orleans Casino Proposal" Houston Chronicle online (10/11/2005):
… Mayor Nagin said he hoped the governor would include the gambling proposal in a special session … the governor will not include Nagin's gambling proposal, her spokeswoman Denise Bottcher said.
… gambling shouldn't be the basis for economic development in New Orleans.
Blanco issued a statement that urged "caution ... in looking to the expansion of gambling as a quick fix to our economic problems in the city." "I have never believed that gambling should be the base on which to build our economy," she said.
Read the entire article online.
More Information:
- Family.org - CitizenLink - FNIF News - Gambling Revenues Won't Help Rebuild New OrleansLouisiana's Governor nixes a proposal for expanded gambling made by the Mayor.
- CitizenLink - Features - Louisiana's Governor Says 'No' to Expanded Gambling Pro-family groups say the decision will have a positive impact.
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