Khazei Speaks Out Against Casino Gambling In Massachusetts

The stars have been aligning lately for supporters of casino gambling in Massachusetts. On Monday, Democrat Alan Khazei reminded everyone that there is also strong opposition to any form of casino expansion in the state.

Khazei said that casino gambling is not the answer to the state's economical problem. While he acknowledged that the financial challenges are many, he claimed that "It's a decision that we can't take back once we've done it."

Khazei was speaking at a candidate forum that was held by the Greater Boston Chamber of Commerce on Monday. He stressed that the creation of jobs should be the number one concern for lawmakers, but that the casino gambling industry is not the area from which the jobs should be created.

Many politicians have aligned themselves with the pro-gambling movement in Massachusetts. Governor Duval Patrick started the movement when he ran for office on a largely pro-gambling platform.

House Speaker Robert DeLeo has voiced his support for expanding casino gambling into Massachusetts. Senate President Therese Murray has also thrown her support behind the issue. That gives the state three of the most influential politicians that are backing casino gambling.

Still, Khazei warns that the culture of the state will change if casino gambling is approved. In recent years, the public has softened their stance on allowing casinos into the state. That was evidenced when voters chose Patrick to become the next governor of the state.

October 26, 2009
Posted By Terry Goodwin
Staff Editor, CasinoGamblingWeb.com
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