FanDuel Hires Former Illinois, Florida Officials for Relations

FanDuel, a leader in the online sports betting and gaming industry, has made two significant hires in preparation for the 2025 legislative season. Attorneys Tom Hartmann and Louis Trombetta have joined the company as Directors of Government Relations, with their appointments coming just ahead of state legislative sessions across the United States. Their expertise and political ties, particularly in Florida and Illinois, could be crucial as FanDuel looks to expand its footprint in the online casino market, a sector that remains largely unregulated in many states.

 

Strengthening Political Ties

The decision to bring Hartmann and Trombetta on board comes at a pivotal time. Both attorneys possess deep connections in the political spheres of Illinois and Florida—two states where FanDuel already operates and where online casino regulations are expected to be a hot topic in 2025. According to a recent press release from FanDuel, the hiring of Hartmann and Trombetta is intended to “strengthen relationships in existing states of operation and new states into which it aims to expand.” Their experience and proximity to key political figures in gaming matters make them well-positioned to help FanDuel navigate the evolving regulatory landscape.

Hartmann’s background includes serving as Chief Counsel to the Speaker of the Illinois House of Representatives, where he played a pivotal role in the state’s gaming expansion in 2019, which legalized online sports betting. Trombetta, the former Executive Director of the Florida Gaming Commission, was instrumental in shaping the state’s regulatory framework for gaming. Their experience in both political arenas could offer FanDuel significant advantages as the company seeks to influence upcoming legislative efforts.

The appointments of Hartmann and Trombetta are particularly notable in light of ongoing discussions in both Illinois and Florida surrounding online casino regulation. While neither state currently has a regulatory framework for online casinos, both are seen as potential hotspots for legalization in the near future.

In Illinois, there have been recurring legislative efforts to regulate online casino play, and with the return of bill sponsors to Springfield in 2025, Hartmann’s political connections could help accelerate these discussions. FanDuel already has a strong presence in Illinois through its sports betting operations, including an online sportsbook and racebook. The company also owns a racino in the state, positioning it to potentially expand into online casinos if the legislative environment shifts in its favor.

Florida presents a slightly more complex scenario. While the state has made strides with online sports wagering, largely thanks to a deal brokered by the Seminole Tribe of Florida, online casinos remain unregulated. However, the Seminole Tribe has expressed interest in expanding its control over online gambling in Florida, potentially opening the door for FanDuel to enter the market. For this to happen, a deal with the Seminoles would be required, but Hartmann and Trombetta’s familiarity with the state’s political and gaming dynamics could help FanDuel navigate these complex negotiations. If a framework similar to the sports betting compact is established, FanDuel could have a pathway to launch its online casino product in Florida.

 

Expanding Influence in Other States

While Florida and Illinois are at the forefront of FanDuel’s expansion plans, Hartmann and Trombetta’s expertise could be leveraged in other states as well. In Louisiana, lawmakers have been holding discussions on regulating online casinos, and Trombetta’s background in Florida could offer valuable insights into how to approach such regulatory frameworks. Similarly, in New York, Senator Joe Addabbo has been a vocal advocate for expanding the state’s online gambling offerings to include online casino games, a push he is expected to renew in 2025. FanDuel’s presence in the state could benefit from Hartmann and Trombetta’s ability to engage with key stakeholders and influence the direction of online gaming policy.

Another state worth watching is Wyoming, where Rep. Robert Davis has committed to filing legislation aimed at regulating online casinos in 2025. FanDuel already offers online sports betting in the state, and Hartmann and Trombetta could play a role in advancing the conversation around broader gambling expansion.

 

Hiring Tom Hartmann and Louis Trombetta strengthens our relationships in both existing states and those we aim to expand into, positioning us well for the regulatory changes ahead

 

Conclusion

The appointments of Tom Hartmann and Louis Trombetta as Directors of Government Relations for FanDuel are timely and strategically important. With their deep political ties and extensive experience in gaming law, they bring valuable assets to a company poised to expand its presence in the online casino market. As state legislatures across the U.S. prepare to convene in 2025, FanDuel will be relying on these new hires to navigate complex political and regulatory challenges, particularly in Florida and Illinois. While the full extent of their impact beyond these two states remains to be seen, Hartmann and Trombetta’s experience positions FanDuel well for continued growth in a rapidly evolving industry.