Opposing ideas

Alabama has always been conservative when it comes to gambling laws and a state senator has said that conversations about expansion have “miles and miles to go.”

Two state representatives are reportedly working behind the scenes to try to get a public vote on the matter. Chris Blackshear and Andy Whitt hope to put the question to the people of Alabama as part of next year’s presidential ballot.

could lead to greater numbers of Democrats turning up to vote

Senator Chris Elliott poured cold water on the idea as he thinks that this approach would be a mistake. Appearing on a local radio talk show, Elliott warned that a gambling-related constitutional amendment question on the ballot could lead to greater numbers of Democrats turning up to vote. The Mobile native speculated that this might lead to Republicans struggling to win the newly created second congressional district.

Political manoeuvring

Senator Elliott believes that neither the House nor Senate majority members would want to jeopardize the presidential election for the Republican Party. Alabama has historically been a red state, with the majority of voters backing the Republican nominee in every single presidential election since 1976.

it’s still very much a work in progress

Elliott also thinks that many discussions need to be held before significant gambling expansion takes place in the state, saying that it’s still very much a work in progress. He went on to warn against having a special legislative session in 2024 to consider new gambling laws, an approach current Governor Kay Ivey has taken numerous times in recent years.

Unsuccessful attempts

There have been many failed attempts over the years by Alabama lawmakers to push through new gambling legislation. Going into next year’s legislative session, a big focus will be on creating a gaming commission to battle against the widespread illegal gambling that is taking place across the state.

Previous attempts to legalize sports betting would have allowed retail facilities at dog tracks and on properties owned by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians. Online sportsbooks would also be permitted, with more comprehensive bills also creating a state lottery and allowing casino gaming.