Adelson Family’s Push for Texas Gambling Faces Political Hurdles

The Adelson family, now the majority owners of the Dallas Mavericks, continues to invest heavily in lobbying for gambling expansion in Texas. Despite their efforts, which include substantial political donations, the prospect of legalized gambling in the state remains uncertain, with key political figures maintaining strong opposition.

Over the last several legislative sessions, Texas lawmakers have largely resisted efforts to expand gambling. The state legislature, which meets only in odd-numbered years, considered two major bills during the 2023 session. One proposed allowing statewide mobile sports betting with oversight by professional sports teams and a 10% tax rate. Another sought to legalize destination resort casinos. While the House passed the mobile betting bill, the casino bill was withdrawn without a vote.

Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, a critical gatekeeper in Texas politics, has been vocal about his opposition. He tweeted during the 2023 session that there was “little to no support for expanding gaming from Senate GOP” and refused to bring the issue to a vote. His stance remains unchanged, with political analysts suggesting that expanded gambling is unlikely to gain traction in the upcoming 2025 session.

 

Adelson’s Strategic Contributions

Despite political resistance, Miriam Adelson, widow of Las Vegas Sands founder Sheldon Adelson and the company’s largest shareholder, has ramped up her efforts. According to the Dallas Morning News, Adelson has already contributed $13.7 million to political campaigns ahead of the 2025 session, more than quadrupling her 2022 donations. Her contributions include significant sums to influential Republicans, such as House Speaker Dade Phelan ($1.02 million) and Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick ($200,000).

Andy Abboud, Las Vegas Sands’ senior vice president for government relations, emphasized public interest in gambling expansion, stating, “Texans want to decide and vote on this issue, and we look forward to working with the Legislature to give them that opportunity this session.” However, analysts like Bob Garret remain skeptical, pointing out that Patrick’s steadfast opposition and the lack of support within the Republican caucus are significant barriers.

Public opinion in Texas appears to lean toward gambling expansion. A survey conducted in April found that 47% of Texans support legalizing sports betting, while 56% are in favor of adding destination resorts. Nevertheless, passing legislation requires a two-thirds majority in both chambers to place a constitutional amendment on the ballot. If achieved, voters would then decide in November 2025.

State Senator Carol Alvarado has already filed SJR 16, a bill that proposes allowing destination resorts and wagering. Lawmakers can prefile additional bills before the session begins on January 14, 2025. The legislative window will run through June 2, leaving a narrow timeframe for gambling advocates to rally support.

 

Texans want to decide and vote on this issue, and we look forward to working with the Legislature to give them that opportunity this session.

 

Conclusion

While the Adelson family’s financial backing underscores their commitment to gambling expansion in Texas, political roadblocks remain formidable. Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick’s opposition, coupled with the need for significant legislative support, suggests that the odds of progress in 2025 are slim. However, growing public interest and continued lobbying efforts could keep the issue alive, potentially setting the stage for future sessions. For now, the path to legalized gambling in Texas appears as complex and uncertain as ever.