Is Georgia Reviving its Sports Betting debate

Rep. Marcus Wiedower's resounding victory in the May 21st Republican primary could signal a shift in the political calculus surrounding online sports betting in Georgia. Wiedower, who championed legislation to legalize online sports betting, faced opposition within his party, particularly from faith-based groups that wield significant influence in Republican primaries. Despite these challenges, Wiedower secured 83% of the vote, suggesting that the issue may not be as politically toxic as some of his colleagues fear.

Wiedower's experience highlights a broader challenge for Georgia Republicans. Many incumbents are more concerned about primary challengers from within their own party than they are about facing Democrats in the general election. This fear often leads them to avoid supporting controversial measures, especially in election years. The opposition from faith-based organizations is particularly potent, as these groups have repeatedly threatened to withdraw support from lawmakers who back gambling legislation.

However, Wiedower's decisive win could encourage other Republicans to reconsider their stance. His opponent, John Michael Grigsby, made Wiedower's support for online sports betting a central issue in his campaign, yet failed to make a significant dent in the incumbent's support. Wiedower's message to his colleagues is clear: voters are not as opposed to gambling as some may think, and allowing a vote on the issue is unlikely to cost them their seats.

Wiedower's approach is pragmatic. Rather than pushing for immediate legalization, he advocates for a referendum, allowing Georgians to decide the issue themselves. This strategy could be more palatable for lawmakers wary of taking a definitive stance on gambling.

The growing interest in online gaming among Georgia lawmakers was evident at the recent National Council of Legislators from Gaming States (NCLGS) conference. Seven Georgia legislators, including Wiedower, attended the July event, signaling a shift in attitudes. For several attendees, this was their first experience at NCLGS, underscoring the increasing seriousness with which Georgia lawmakers are treating the issue.

Sen. Bill Cowsert, another attendee, successfully led the Senate's passage of online sports betting legislation earlier this year. However, the House, where Wiedower serves, has been more resistant. Wiedower hopes that continued engagement with national conversations on gaming, such as those facilitated by NCLGS, will help sway more of his colleagues.

 

 

The Future

Looking ahead, Wiedower is realistic about the challenges of expanding gambling in Georgia. While there is growing interest in online sports betting, the prospect of legalizing online casinos, known as iGaming, remains distant. Wiedower himself is skeptical, citing the significant opposition he has already faced over sports betting.

The upcoming NCLGS conference in New Orleans could provide further opportunities for Georgia lawmakers to engage with the issue. Wiedower plans to encourage more of his colleagues to attend, believing that greater exposure to the debate could help build consensus.

For now, Wiedower's message is simple: allow the people of Georgia to have their say. His primary victory suggests that voters may be more open to the idea than many lawmakers believe. As Georgia continues to grapple with the future of online gambling, Wiedower's success could be a turning point in the ongoing debate.