Members of the Lumbee Tribe have voted against a constitutional amendment related to a proposed casino and entertainment development in Robeson County, North Carolina, ending, at least for now, the tribe’s gaming plans on newly acquired land near Interstate 95.
The vote marked one of the most significant decisions made by the tribe since gaining full federal recognition in December 2025. Unofficial results released by the Lumbee Tribal Election Board showed that about 62% of voters opposed the amendment. The measure received 3,363 votes in favor and 5,553 votes against.
Tribal Leader John Lowery acknowledged the outcome after it became clear, and said that the majority voted not to move forward with the proposal.
"The majority of the Lumbee people have spoken, and they have said no to progress and decided to remain with the status quo or remain the way things are,” Lowery wrote after the vote according to ABC11 News.
Despite his disappointment, Lowery praised voter turnout and emphasized the importance of the process. “We’re proud of everyone who took part and voted and were part of the democratic process, being part of the decisions that let you decide how we move forward.” Lowery said.
Vote Ends Current Push for Tribal Gaming
The amendment carries implications beyond the casino proposal itself. According to tribal officials, the agreement would establish a constitutional structure for gambling within the tribe and expand tribal leadership authority over future gambling decisions.
The proposal would allow tribal leaders to negotiate gambling agreements, oversee gambling operations and regulate future gambling enterprises. It would also shift authority over gambling-related regulations from tribal referendums to elected tribal officials.
Ahead of the election, Lowery considered the vote a turning point for the casino proposal. "If the amendment passes, the Lumbee Tribe will continue playing. If it doesn’t pass, we won’t.”
After voters rejected the measure, Lowery made it clear that gambling efforts would not continue under his leadership. "This decision by the majority of Lumbee voters is historic and ensures we will not continue gambling. I will respect the will of the majority, and I will not bring this issue up again for the remaining 18 months of my term.” Lowery said.
Debate Focuses on Authority and Economic Growth
The amendment sparked debate among tribal members in the weeks leading up to the vote. Although many supporters point to the potential economic opportunities, some opponents argue that the proposed constitutional changes would reduce direct voter involvement in future gambling decisions.
Robin Branchwho said he supports gaming in principle, objected to the way the amendment was presented to voters. Branch argued that the amendment would remove constitutional language that currently gives tribal members authority over gaming approvals. “Once that is removed, that authorization falls to our elected officers, chairman and board.” Branch continued.
Supporters of the amendment argue that elected leaders are already representatives of tribal members and should be trusted to make those decisions.
“I see my vote as representing my district,” Wanda Burns-Ramsey said. "If you want to get involved, then vote for your elected officials. We still have a voice. We elect the chief. We elect our tribal representatives. It doesn’t take away our voice. It amplifies our voice.”
He pointed to discussions in neighboring South Carolina regarding potential casino development along the Interstate 95 corridor.
"I think this is a threat,” Burns-Ramsey said. "Why would we take that opportunity when we have great support right now to get federal recognition. The timing is right.”
The Future of Property Remains Uncertain
Proponents have promoted the casino project as a major economic development initiative in the region. The tribe purchased about 240 acres near Interstate 95 for about $6 million shortly after receiving federal recognition. Plans for the site include a casino, hotel accommodations, convention center, golf facilities, entertainment attractions, cultural offerings and other amenities.
"And we’re in the perfect location for that. The casino, it’s not just about gambling. You know, there’s the entertainment business. The Lumbee family has purchased land in a perfect location for 95,240 acres of entertainment. Cultural activities, museums, water parks, golf courses. You know, it’s going to be more than just a casino,” Burns-Ramsey said.
Project supporters estimate the development could generate between 2,750 and 3,500 full-time jobs. Proposed salaries range from about $45,000 per year for some positions to more than $300,000 for others. Advocates also project large revenues that could be directed to housing, health care, education, public safety, economic development initiatives and tribal government operations.
"I feel our generation and our children will benefit from this vote,” Aydan Bullard said before the ballots were counted. "This is just going to help our community and we’ve been waiting for this for a long time. I feel like now we have an opportunity.”
If the amendment is defeated, the casino proposal will not move forward. However, the 240-acre property remains under tribal ownership, and tribal leaders are expected to evaluate alternative economic development opportunities for the site in the future.
