Caprio Not Opposed to Casino

With a bit of momentum building around a full-scale casino in Rhode Island - House Speaker William J. Murphy, a long-time supporter of the idea, and Governor Carcieri, a long-time foe, have both suggested in recent days that the idea might be revived - the issue is beginning to bleed into the race to succeed Carcieri.

Lincoln Chafee, Republican-turned-independent, has noted that voters rejected the notion in 2006 and suggested it should remain dead. But Treasurer Frank Caprio, vying with Attorney General Patrick Lynch for the Democratic gubernatorial nomination, seems more open to the idea. His office provided this statement to N4N: "The Treasurer is not opposed to gaming but any expansion needs both local and statewide approval."

That. of course, is not a ringing endorsement. Lincoln voters have made clear that they oppose an expansion of Twin River from slot parlor to full-scale casino. But it's an opening and, potentially, a potent campaign issue.