Casino expansion has become a key issue in North Carolina’s upcoming gubernatorial election. The News & Observer recently asked candidates to share their views. Most called for caution, especially Attorney General Josh Stein and Lieutenant Governor Mark Robinson, the top two on the ballot.
Despite slow casino expansion, sports betting has taken off in North Carolina since its legalization in 2021. Today multiple North Carolina sports betting sites and apps operate, like DraftKings, FanDuel, Barstool, and BetMGM. New users can claim attractive sign-up bonuses and promos. For example, using the BetMGM North Carolina bonus code NCWAGER grants a $1,000 risk-free bet. As candidates debate casinos, sportsbooks continue gaining users eager to wager on teams like the Carolina Panthers or college basketball powerhouses. Lawmakers could accelerate mobile betting’s growth by allowing standalone sportsbook lounges. For now, the future remains uncertain.
Democrats Split on Supporting Casinos
Of the Democrats, Attorney General Josh Stein advocates diversifying the economy by investing in clean energy, infrastructure, and good jobs, especially in rural areas. He believes these long-term investments would benefit North Carolinians more than casinos. With 31% support in polls, he holds a wide lead over fellow Democrat Mike Morgan at 4%.
Morgan strongly opposes casinos. He worries they may not sustain rural communities and wants alternative development focused on sustainable, accessible growth.
Marcus Williams took a more balanced view. He said Republicans weaken revenue with tax cuts for the wealthy. Williams would consider casino legislation but monitor impacts on residents.
Republicans Also Divided on the Issue
As Lieutenant Governor, Mark Robinson wants to closely evaluate casinos’ economic and social impacts. He says officials must listen to people before deciding. With a commanding lead in polls, Robinson seems poised to do well in the election.
In contrast, Dale Folwell staunchly opposes casino legislation. He has never supported it and says that would not change as governor.
Libertarians Want Limited Government Involvement
The Libertarian candidates, Shannon Bray and Mike Ross, typical of their party, want little government involvement. Bray said officials should not ban things like casinos. Ross would consider bills’ merits and links to “political grift.” Perhaps thinking of a casino developer’s influence in the last session, Ross wants transparency.
Path Forward Remains Unclear
Despite these mixed views, the legislative path on casinos is unclear. No specific expansion bills have been filed for the 2024 session. In fact, Senate leader Phil Berger has indicated he will not file casino legislation this year.
Also, the top two gubernatorial candidates, Stein and Robinson, urge caution on casinos. The shortened session beginning in April allows little time for meaningful debate on such a complex, controversial issue in an election year.
North Carolina has always been slow to expand gambling beyond lotteries. Many candidates noted other higher priorities currently occupying lawmaker attention and votes.
Still, with public support growing for commercial casinos, groups like NCWager say they would economically benefit host counties. For now, casino expansion seems stalled until at least 2025. Candidates and lawmakers remain rightfully cautious.
