US Senator Voinavich Blasts Ohio Governor's Gambling Stance

Governor Ted Strickland has been applauded by many for realizing the times are changing in his state of Ohio. The governor has changed his stance on the issue of casino gambling expansion, and many believe that was the move of a politician who understands the need for casino revenue in Ohio.

That, however is not the opinion of Senator George Voinavich. The senator laid into the governor of Ohio for switching his position on the issue. Voinavich has been opposed to gambling for a long time.

"Based on his (Strickland) past comments, he knows that this is not in the best interest of Ohio families," said Voinavich, "...and I think he's got to understand, that when it comes to gambling, you can't be half-pregnant. The expansion of the lottery is opening the door to full-blown gambling in the state."

Those comments come from a politician who once had to make these decision sin Ohio, and he chose back in 1992 to raise taxes to generate revenue for the state. That decision is not one that Governor Strickland was willing to make with families already struggling financially.

"The world changed tremendously about a year ago with the collapse of Lehman Brothers when Ohio began to face a lingering national recession which led to a shortfall in this state," said Amanda Wurst, Spokeswoman for Strickland.

Wurst went on to defend Strickland's position change by saying, "The governor was forced to make a decision. That decision was to turn to slots and not raise taxes."

While Voinavich had harsh words for Strickland, it does not appear that the people of Ohio agree with his statements. Recent surveys have indicated that Ohioans are loosening their anti-gambling stance. There are over 400,000 signatures from Ohio residents that want casinos in the state.

The issue will once again be on the ballot in NOvember thanks to those signatures. The proposal on the ballot calls for four casinos in Ohio. Columbus, Cleveland, Toledo, and Cincinnati would all receive casinos if voters approve the measure.

September 5, 2009
Posted By Terry Goodwin
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
Submit News!

Greebrier Gains License For Full-Scale Casino Gambling
Macau Casino Gambling Revenue Up Seventeen Percent In August
Negotiations Begin Between Union And Atlantic City Casinos
Pari-Mutuels Ready To Fight Seminole Gambling Compact In Florida
Pennsylvania Casino Revenue Up Dramatically In August