Alabama Candidate For Governor Endorses Gambling Expansion

Democratic candidate for Governor in Alabama Ron Sparks has had enough of politicians denying that expanded gambling is coming. That is why he has set his campaign platform to include major expansion in the state.

"With the revenues we gain from finally taxing casinos in Alabama, we can eliminate any need for new taxes, freeze existing taxes and still meet our obligations to education and the General Fund program," said Sparks.

Sparks has called for a state lottery to be created. Currently, Alabama is one of the states in the country that does not offer lottery gambling for their residents. He also acknowledged that casinos are running, and that politicians should stop looking the other way.

"It's here and it's going to stay," said Sparks, referring to casino gambling. Currently, the casinos are being run illegally or legally, depending on which politician is asked the question.

Sparks wants to eliminate the doubt and ensure that casinos are taxed. The people of Alabama are dealing with increasing taxes, something Sparks is looking to stop. The position is a stark contrast to the position of current Governor Robert Riley.

It has become common in recent years for politicians to build their platform around the gambling issue. Governor Duval Patrick in Massachusetts ran and won with an eye on gambling expansion. That expansion has not yet occurred, but Patrick continues to push lawmakers to pass casino legislation.

July 2, 2009
Posted By Terry Goodwin
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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