The market had generally been good to the gambling stocks for months, and particularly liked any company that talked up an expensive new casino project.

However, the casino project died when Florida voters rejected legalized gambling.

But when she became involved in the casino project that year, she denied having been an owner.

I got Delaware North's casino project killed, the one that would have competed with you.

Under federal law, Empire can transfer 30 acres to the tribe for a casino project.

But she and other local politicians maintain that the casino project will attract more development.

Some also fear the money that could flood campaigns for those who support casino projects.

"I believe that on its merits the casino project will win approval," he said.

Two days later, his staff members first decided that they would likely reject the casino project.

Mr. Berman and his group's casino project, meanwhile, were left for dead.