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Members of the Lumbee Tribe have voted against a constitutional amendment connected to a proposed casino and entertainment development in Robeson County, North Carolina, bringing an end, at least for now, to plans for tribal gaming on recently acquired land near Interstate 95.
The vote marks one of the most significant decisions made by the tribe since it secured full federal recognition in December 2025. Unofficial results released by the Lumbee Tribe Elections Board showed that approximately 62% of voters opposed the amendment. The measure received 3,363 votes in favor and 5,553 votes against.
Tribal Chairman John Lowery acknowledged the outcome after the results became clear, saying the majority had chosen not to move forward with the proposal.
“A majority of the Lumbee people have spoken, and they have said no to progress and have decided to stay with the status quo or simply staying with the way things are,” Lowery wrote following the vote according to ABC11 News.
Despite his disappointment, Lowery praised voter participation and emphasized the importance of the process. “We’re just proud of everyone for coming out and voting and being part of the democratic process, being a part of this decision which allows you to decide how we move forward,” Lowery said.
Vote Ends Current Push for Tribal Gaming
The amendment carried implications beyond the proposed casino itself. According to tribal officials, approval would have established a constitutional structure for gaming within the tribe and expanded the authority of tribal leadership over future gaming decisions.
The proposal would have allowed tribal leaders to negotiate gaming agreements, oversee gaming operations, and regulate any future gaming enterprises. It also would have shifted authority over gaming-related ordinances away from tribe-wide referendums and toward elected tribal officials.
Ahead of the election, Lowery had framed the vote as a turning point for the casino proposal. “If the amendment passes, the Lumbee Tribe will pursue gaming. If it does not pass, we will not.”
After voters rejected the measure, Lowery confirmed that gaming efforts would not continue under his leadership. “This decision by the majority of Lumbee voters is historic and ensures we will not move forward with gaming. I will honor the wishes of the majority, and I will not bring this issue forward again over the remaining 18 months of my tenure,” Lowery said.
Debate Focused on Authority and Economic Growth
The amendment sparked debate among tribal members in the weeks leading up to the vote. While many supporters pointed to potential economic opportunities, some opponents argued that the proposed constitutional changes would reduce direct voter involvement in future gaming decisions.
Robin Branch, who said she 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 tribe members authority over gaming approval. “Once that removes, that authorization falls to our elected officials, chairman and council,” Branch continued.
Supporters of the amendment maintained that elected leaders already serve as representatives of tribal members and should be entrusted with making such decisions.
“I see my vote as my district representative,” Wanda Burns-Ramsey said. “If you want to be involved, then vote for your elected official. We still have a vote. We vote for the chairman. We vote for our tribal representation. That doesn’t take away our vote. It solidifies our vote.”
She pointed to discussions in neighboring South Carolina regarding potential casino developments along the Interstate 95 corridor.
“I think it is a threat,” Burns-Ramsey said. “Why would we take that chance when we have huge support right now for federal recognition. The timing is perfect.”
Future of the Property Remains Uncertain
Supporters had promoted the casino project as a major economic development initiative for the region. The tribe purchased approximately 240 acres near Interstate 95 for about $6 million shortly after receiving federal recognition. Plans for the site included a casino, hotel accommodations, a convention center, golf facilities, entertainment attractions, cultural offerings, and other amenities.
“And we’re in a perfect location for it. Casinos, not just about gambling. You know, there is the entertainment business. The Lumbees have purchased land that’s in a perfect location for entertainment right off 95, 240 acres. Cultural activities, a museum, a water park, a golf course. You know, it’s going to be a lot more than a casino,” Burns-Ramsey said.
Project supporters estimated the development could generate between 2,750 and 3,500 full-time jobs. Proposed salaries ranged from roughly $45,000 annually for some positions to more than $300,000 for others. Advocates also projected substantial revenue that could be directed toward housing, healthcare, education, public safety, economic development initiatives, and tribal government operations.
“I feel like our generation and our kids will reap the benefits of this vote,” Aydan Bullard said before ballots were counted. “It’ll just help our community and we’ve been waiting for this for so long. I feel like now we have the opportunity.”
With the amendment 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.