How the 2024 Election Could Affect Online Gambling in 5 States

With the 2024 general election less than 6 weeks away, everything seems to be rising to a fever pitch. It's clear that most Americans feel this is an election for the ages as the battle for the heart and soul of the country continues.

While it might not be the hottest issue in America, there are still several states that are wrestling with the idea of expanding retail and online gambling access. Let's examine how the election outcome could impact gambling in these five states.

Arkansas

In 2018, a referendum was passed that authorized the state to license four (4) retail casinos, each with a specified location. Heading into this election cycle, three of those licenses have been issued and the retail casinos are currently in operation. The one license that has yet to be issued is in Polk County.

Due to the delays, voters are being asked to vote on a Polk County license. Here's the caveat. Opponents are trying to invalidate the referendum before election day. Even if they fail and the referendum passes, there is a three of a new constitutional amendment that would remove Polk County from consideration. The House election could affect how this amendment question plays out.

Georgia

For this election cycle, all eyes will be on Georgia as one of the nation's key battleground states. Meanwhile, gambling enthusiasts will be paying a lot of attention to state House and Senate races. With the GOP in charge over recent years, the state has failed time and again to move forward with online sports and casino gambling legislation. Could this year's election reverse this trend?

While it looks like gambling-friendly Democrats might pick up a few seats, it won't be enough to overtake the GOP's 24-seat advantage in the House. It looks like it will be another two years before Georgia gamblers might get their way.

Indiana

Indiana's lawmakers have been inching closer to passing online casino gambling legislation over the past year or so. It looks like 2025 will be the year such legislation will hit the Governor's desk for signature. With US Sen. Mike Braun on the ballot of Indiana Governor being opposed by Democrat Jennifer McCormick, there should be no issues getting a bill signed.

Missouri

There's a lot of political shaking going on in Missouri, the kind of activity that could affect online gambling in the state. The Governor's office is open and a major shakeup in the legislature seems possible. Getting gambling expansion past the new Governor shouldn't be a problem since both candidates have expressed support for the cause. A change in the mix of Republicans in the House could end up being the deciding factor for the next two years.

New York

As the battle for legalizing online casino gambling moves into the new year, the prospects don't look good for legalization. Even with New York's two top online casino gambling proponents holding office during this election, they will still be facing an uphill battle. Seems nothing will get resolved until the ongoing retail casino issue gets resolved.