The governor has sole state authority to approve such a deal. Local and federal approval also is required. Klauser, a lawyer in private practice, said Friday that he had not obtained any contracts with any tribes on gambling issues and would not accept any. The investigation also focuses on a meeting in November in Klauser's Capitol office with a Lac du Flambeau delegation, said Michael Christensen, a tribal council member who was at the meeting.
State law prohibits officials from using their public positions for personal gain.
James Haney, a spokesman for the department, declined to comment. The review expands on an ongoing department investigation that includes a review of Klauser's involvement with state contracts and fund raising. The Legislative Audit Bureau also is conducting an audit of state bonding practices under Klauser. The meeting was held shortly before Thanksgiving, about two months after Klauser announced his intention to quit as secretary of administration. Participants' versions of what took place at the meeting differed sharply.