Nation IN BRIEF : OREGON : U.S. Officials Reject Tribe’s Casino Bid

The Interior Department rejected an American Indian tribe’s application to build a high-stakes casino in Oregon, saying it is powerless to approve such projects over the objections of a governor. Gov. Barbara Roberts has fought the plans by the Confederated Tribes of Siletz to operate a 24-hour casino in Salem, Ore., for fear it would harm the surrounding community. Eddie Brown, assistant Interior secretary for Indian affairs, confirmed the department was rejecting the request for the $8.8-million gambling hall. The tribe is expected to appeal the decision.