Every Candidate for Governor of Texas Supports Gambling Expansion

Republican incumbent Gov. Rick Perry has proposed allowing Texas racetracks and Indian reservations to operate slot machines, has state Comptroller Carole Keeton Strayhorn, and even Democrat Chris Bell who is totally "open" to casinos, as the tax revenue could pay for education and social services.

Good Sign

Bill Stinson, a spokesman forthe  pro-casino group Let the Voters Decide, said the lack of a vocal gambling opponent on the statewide ballot is a good sign.

"We've got a very good shot at getting a constitutional amendment on the ballot so the voters can decide what gaming opportunities they'd be willing to support," said Stinson. "Everyone on the statewide ballot in the governor's race has indicated they're open to it."

Gambling has been a low-profile issue in the governor's race, thus far. Donors with connection to the gaming industry have donated nearly $2.5 million to the candidate in the race.

Perry has received the most, thus far, $1.3 million, although he has been the least vocal on the issue. Strayhorn has received $1.1 million and Bell $5,500. Friedman, despite his unabashed backing of casinos, has received nothing from the industry.

Many donors have given to both Perry and Strayhorn.

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Racetrack Too

According to Reggie Bashur, a Republican lobbyist who represents the Texas Horsemen's Partnership, which wants video slot machines at racetracks, the gaming industry has not placed it bet on just one candidate.

"Our organization hasn't taken a formal position in the governor's race," said Bashur.

According Suzi Paynter, who heads the anti-gambling Christian Life Commission, she expects a push by the casino lobby in next year's legislative session.

"There are so many lobbyists and is so much money from gambling interests floating around Austin, I don't see how there cannot be a major effort to pass something," Paynter said.

But Stinson, of Let the Voters Decide, said Texans are literally carrying money by the bus load across state lines to casinos in Louisiana, New Mexico and Oklahoma.

"There are tour buses that are offering free trips if you can guarantee that there will be 50 people or more on them,"he said. "From what I've seen, they've had no trouble filling them up."


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