Experts Say State Elections Hold Greater Importance for Casinos Than the Presidential Race

Legal and political experts have urged workers in the casino industry to focus their attention on state office races rather than the upcoming presidential election.

As the November presidential election approaches, much of the nation’s focus is on the contest between Republican candidate Donald Trump and Democratic candidate Kamala Harris. However, experts are advising the gambling industry to prioritize the state-level elections instead.

Casino Workers Should Prioritize State Elections

With the US presidential election nearing, betting markets are buzzing as they shift with each debate. This excitement extends to the casino industry, which is also eager to see how the elections will shape the future political landscape. Both Trump and Harris have made various promises, some of which could impact the gambling and hospitality sectors.

However, experts warn that state office races hold more significance for the casino industry. In an interview with Casino.org, Robert Jarvis, a law professor at Nova Southeastern University’s Shepard College of Law, highlighted that state governments, not the federal government, primarily regulate gaming laws.

“These are state, not federal, issues… Casino-related matters are handled at the state and local level,” Jarvis said.

Mark P. Jones, a political scientist at Rice University, echoed this sentiment, noting that state elections are critical since most regulations affecting the casino industry are determined at that level. He emphasized that state election results will have a direct impact on the livelihoods of casino workers.

These state elections will be held concurrently with the presidential election on November 5.

Presidential Candidates May Not Affect Taxes on Tipped Workers

Regarding the presidential race, Jones suggested that casino workers are more likely to vote based on their personal economic situation and political beliefs, rather than factors directly related to their industry.

Jarvis noted that key issues shaping the presidential election include the cost of living, immigration, abortion, and conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine. He also mentioned that, historically, the casino industry has leaned toward supporting Republican candidates, particularly in light of Trump’s 2017 tax cuts. Yet, any changes in taxation would ultimately depend on Congress, which writes the laws.

Both Trump and Harris have pledged to eliminate taxes on tipped workers, an issue relevant to many casino employees. However, Jarvis pointed out that such a proposal might not pass through Congress, and even if it did, it could be offset by increased taxes elsewhere.