Candidates Crystal Quade (D) and Mike Kehoe (R) Unite on Sports Betting
In a surprising twist for Missouri politics, both major candidates vying for the governor’s office—Crystal Quade, a Democrat, and Mike Kehoe, a Republican—are in agreement on a significant issue: the legalization of sports betting in the state. This bipartisan support was prominently displayed during the recent gubernatorial debate, where both candidates articulated their backing for Constitutional Amendment 2, which aims to bring legalized sports betting to Missouri.
The Case for Legalized Sports Betting
During the debate, Quade and Kehoe emphasized the potential economic benefits of legalized sports betting, particularly the revenue that Missouri is currently missing out on due to its neighbors adopting similar measures. States like Illinois and Arkansas have already embraced sports betting, leading to increased tax revenues and economic activity. Both candidates highlighted that without legal sports betting, Missouri risks losing not only potential tax revenue but also the opportunity to create jobs and stimulate local economies.
Libertarian candidate Bill Slantz also expressed his support for the amendment, albeit with a caveat regarding the need for minimal regulations. In contrast, Green Party candidate Paul Lehman stood against the measure, creating a clear divide among the candidates regarding the future of sports betting in Missouri.
A Boost for Education Funding
One of the most compelling arguments for legalizing sports betting is its potential to generate significant revenue for Missouri’s public education system. Winning for Missouri Education, a campaign advocating for the sports betting ballot initiative, praised Quade and Kehoe for their support. Spokesperson Jack Cardetti remarked, “We are honored that the two leading candidates to be Missouri’s next chief executive both endorse legalizing sports betting as a new permanent, dedicated funding source for our classrooms, and plan to vote yes on Amendment 2.”
A recent economic study commissioned by the campaign from Eilers & Krejcik Gaming projected that Missouri could see gross gaming revenue reach nearly $560 million within five years of legalizing sports betting. This revenue could translate into approximately $105 million earmarked for public education over the same period, making a compelling case for voters to consider.
What Voters Will Decide
As the general election approaches on November 5, voters will have the opportunity to weigh in on the future of sports betting in Missouri. A constitutional amendment question will be placed on the ballot, asking citizens whether they support the legalization of both retail and online sports betting. The proposed initiative outlines a framework where the state’s casinos would be granted a single online sports betting license, along with two untethered licenses available for sports betting companies.
Under the proposed legislation, each Missouri sports team and casino would be eligible to operate both retail and online sports betting. This means that every team and casino could apply for one retail sports betting license, as well as one online sports betting license, allowing them to partner with an online sports betting operator.
The Path Forward
For the amendment to pass, it requires a simple majority of votes. If approved, Missouri could see sports betting operations begin as early as mid to late 2025. The potential for increased revenue, job creation, and enhanced funding for education makes this a pivotal moment for the state. As both Quade and Kehoe rally support for the amendment, it remains to be seen how voters will respond to this opportunity to reshape Missouri’s gaming landscape.
With both candidates advocating for the same cause, the upcoming election not only highlights the importance of sports betting in Missouri but also showcases a rare moment of unity in a politically divided landscape. As the date approaches, all eyes will be on Missouri to see how this critical issue unfolds.