Overview
- Lumbee members voted Tuesday to defeat the constitutional amendment, with reporting showing more than 62% of about 6,700 ballots cast in sampled precincts opposing the change.
- The amendment would have removed the tribewide referendum requirement for gaming and given the tribal chair and council expanded power to negotiate compacts and appoint gaming regulators.
- Tribal leaders had purchased roughly 240–241 acres along I‑95 after federal recognition in December 2025 and had promoted a resort that they said could create about 2,750 to 3,500 full‑time jobs.
- Opponents organized against the measure, saying it concentrated power in leadership, bypassed the referendum process that requires 30% participation, and raised moral and oversight concerns.
- Chairman John L. Lowery said he will accept the result and will not pursue gaming again during the remaining 18 months of his term, leaving open the possibility that future leaders could revisit the issue while the tribe explores other uses for the land.