Casino City’s Friday Five: Gambling election results edition

This week , the U.S. presidential election unfolded, culminating in Donald Trump’s victory over Kamala Harris. For many, this election wasn’t just about politics — it was an opportunity to wager on the outcome. Now, with Trump set to take office, questions arise about the potential impact on the future of online gambling in the U.S.

Elsewhere on election day, several states also decided on key gambling-related ballot measures. Voters in Missouri, Arkansas, Virginia, and Colorado weighed in, shaping the landscape for gambling at the state level. Here, we break down the results and explore what they might mean for the industry’s future.

5. Trump’s impact on gambling
Online sports betting and online gambling in the U.S. have been growing rapidly. However, that could see a sudden change as it wouldn’t be a shock to many if Trump’s administration brings tighter restrictions to the industry, which could put a halt to such growth, according to a SiGMA article.

There are questions around sports betting as well. Will Trump allow states to handle things themselves individually or will he require federal acceptance and approval going forward? This could either continue to let things flourish the way they have been or hinder the ever-growing sports betting industry in the U.S.

4. Arkansas voters quash casino license
Voters in Arkansas revoked a casino license that was awarded in Pope County.

The 55% of the vote also ensures residents won’t have a casino forced on them without a proper special election in order for the property to be approved first.

Now, in addition to needing to obtain a license, operators will have to gain local voter approval in order to move forward with building a new casino in the state.

Arkansas voters approved a constitutional amendment Tuesday that requires new casinos in the state to be approved by a countywide special election and repeals a Pope County casino license already in the state constitution. https://t.co/jwXC3StqSL
— Arkansas Advocate (@ArkAdvocate) November 6, 2024

3. Colorado expands sports betting tax revenue
In Colorado, Proposition JJ passed overwhelmingly, with over 75% of voters supporting the measure. This approval allows the state to retain sports betting tax revenue beyond the previous $29 million cap, paving the way for increased funding from the growing industry.

If Proposition JJ failed to get the necessary votes, the state would have to give the excess money back to the sportsbooks and casinos they partner with. The government plans to use this money for future water projects in the state.

2. Virginia casino passes vote
Live! Casino Resort in Virginia was thrilled with the outcome of the state election as its $1.4 billion project received acceptance by over 80% of voters.

This Cordish Companies’ development will include not only gaming and entertainment options but also restaurants, hotels, and event spaces.

Construction will begin after the vote is certified and all required approvals are received, with an anticipated opening date of the initial first phase casino in 2026.

Petersburg, VA has spoken and the historic casino referendum has passed with overwhelming support of over 80% of residents voting in favor of the $1.4 billion casino resort project. "Thank you, Petersburg, for placing your trust & confidence in our team." - Zed Smith, Cordish COO pic.twitter.com/Zf5g84TLLB
— Cordish Companies (@cordishco) November 6, 2024

1. Missouri green lights sports betting
In Missouri, Amendment 2 narrowly passed on Tuesday, winning by just half a percentage point in a tightly contested vote. This decision makes Missouri the 39th state to legalize sports betting and the 31st jurisdiction, including Washington D.C., to permit online sports wagering.

As a result, the Missouri Gaming Commission must make sports betting available to bettors by 1 December 2025.