Candidates Talking Gambling

Expanding gambling is the hot topic of the Kentucky primary, as candidates start gearing up for the next gubernatorial race. Candidates are speaking out as to whether or not they should allow expanded gambling in the state, with some dead set against, some excitingly for, and some riding the fence as usual.

Democratic gubernatorial candidate Steve Beshear is the first to let his intentions be known – he announced that he would be actively campaigning to get gambling expanded if he wins. He says that there is plenty of opportunity for more gambling and that if they allow it they would be looking at a minimum of $500 million in the state for under funded programs. He wants slot machines and has let everyone know it.

Governor Ernie Fletcher says that he is not in support of gambling, but would approve it if Kentucky residents say that they want it in a vote. Lawmakers have not passed the enabling legislation to legalize slot machines though, so for now he has been pretty safe.

Democrats Otis Hensley and House Speaker Jody Richards, as well as Republican Billy Harper are against expanding gambling. They say that slot machines won’t fix the state’s problems; they will only give them more to worry about. Those that are for the slot machines say that the hundreds of millions that they would bring in should be enough for lawmakers to get working on some sort of legislation.


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