NORTH STONINGTON, Conn. (AP) The chairman of the Eastern Pequot Tribe says ``dirty politics'' are to blame for a federal rule preventing his tribe and two others from reapplying for recognition.

Dennis Jenkins tells The Day that ``backroom dealings'' in Washington made sure Connecticut tribes denied recognition in the past would not get an opportunity to reapply for recognition allowing them to seek federal assistance and pursue casino development.

The U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs last month dropped a provision allowing three state-recognized tribes in Connecticut the Eastern Pequots, Schaghticokes and Golden Hill Paugussetts to reapply for recognition.

The Eastern Pequos won recognition in 2002. It was withdrawn three years later after the state and Ledyard, North Stonington and Preston objected.

Jenkins has said he doesn't believe the tribe should pursue a casino.

The leader of the Kent-based Schaghticoke Tribal Nation said the new rules fall short of the promise to provide a transparent, timely, and consistent process for recognition.  Chief Richard Velky says they will not be deterred by the grave omissions and errors in the Final Regulations.