Regulated gambling isn’t an issue that gets much play during most US Presidential elections. And almost no one ever cares what a vice-presidential nominee thinks about the business.
Unfortunately, almost nothing about this year’s battle for the White House qualifies as, most US Presidential elections.
That’s why it’s worth taking a look at how GOP vice-presidential nominee, and current Indiana Governor, Mike Pence view gambling as a whole, is worth taking a look at. (And given the fact that Donald Trump has already suggested that his vice president will be doing most of the heavy policy work, Pence’s views are particularly noteworthy.)
After more than a decade in Congress and approximately 15 years worth of public service, Pence has established a pretty solid track record on the issue of gambling. That record, however, is entirely anti-gambling.
At every possible opportunity, Pence has voted against expanding regulated gambling, both in land-based casinos and online.
While serving in Congress, Pence voted in favor of the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act; the Internet Gambling Bill; and the Restricting Indian Gaming to Homelands of Tribes Act, according to a report on Gambling911.com.
As recently as 2015, Governor Pence spoke out in support of the controversial Restoration of America’s Wire Act (RAWA). If voted into law, RAWA would completely dismantle the US-facing online gambling industry.
Pence’s distaste for gambling extends to his home state, too. The Hoosier State Governor recently vetoed an online horse racing bill saying:
This legislation is contrary to my long-time position against online gaming. Advance deposit wagering, not currently permitted in Indiana, would also violate my position on expanding gaming here in Indiana.
While it’s not likely that Pence will be asked about gambling when issues such as national security and immigration dominate the political conversation, it’s also pretty clear that Pence is no friend of the gambling industry.