The Cherokee Nation is currently standing at a pivotal crossroads, anxiously awaiting a crucial court ruling that could shape the trajectory of a long-delayed casino endeavor in Pope County, Arkansas. Over a year ago, Cherokee Nation Entertainment (CNE), the gaming and hospitality entity of the Cherokee Nation of Oklahoma, was granted the exclusive rights to establish a casino in Pope County by the Arkansas Racing Commission. This decision followed seven contentious years of legal wrangling to determine whether a former county judge’s endorsement held the same legal standing as that of a sitting judge. The Cherokees emerged victorious from this protracted battle, only to face yet another hurdle.
In November 2024, Arkansas voters passed Issue 2—a ballot measure backed by the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, owners of a competing casino 80 miles away—that amended the state constitution to revoke Pope County’s casino license. The measure succeeded with 56% of the vote, effectively derailing the Cherokees’ ambitious plans. In response, CNE decided to take legal action, filing a lawsuit against the state, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, and the Arkansas Racing Commission. The tribe argues that their constitutional rights were violated when their license was revoked after years of effort and a substantial financial
In November 2024, Arkansas voters passed Issue 2—a ballot measure backed by the Choctaw Nation of Oklahoma, owners of a competing casino 80 miles away—that amended the state constitution to revoke Pope County’s casino license. The measure succeeded with 56% of the vote, effectively derailing the Cherokees’ ambitious plans. In response, CNE decided to take legal action, filing a lawsuit against the state, Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders, and the Arkansas Racing Commission. The tribe argues that their constitutional rights were violated when their license was revoked after years of effort and a substantial financial investment in the project. Judge D.P. Marshall Jr. is now presiding over the federal case in Arkansas’ Eastern District Court, though more than three months have elapsed since he hinted at an imminent ruling.
The stakes are undeniably high for the Cherokee Nation. Should the court rule in their favor, they plan to proceed with the construction of the $300 million Legends Resort & Casino in Russellville. The proposed venue promises to be a comprehensive entertainment complex featuring 1,200 slot machines, 32 table games, a sportsbook, and a 200-room hotel. Additionally, the resort would offer an array of restaurants, a full-service spa,
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