Why are Slots Supporters Splitting Contributions?

In Maryland, the slot machine supporters are split on who to support—that’s why many associations and companies associated with bringing slot machines to Maryland contribute to both candidates rather than choose. But there are reasons why this election has elicited so much feedback from the slot machine community.

Basically the slot machine supporters spent hundreds of thousand of dollars on Ehrlich’s 2002 governor campaign. And that money was well invested, Ehrlich followed through on his campaign promise to new seek slot machine legislation for Maryland. But as much as Ehrlich pushed slot machine legislation, the House rejected his efforts each time. His support is there, but based on what happened in his initial years as governor, he is not terribly successful.

In contrast to Ehrlich, though O’Malley does not like slot machines he recognizes that legalizing slot machines at specific racetrack and locations could bring a real boost to Maryland’s economy. So why are slot machine supporters donating to O’Malley over Ehrlich? Basically the two candidates are very similar on the slot machine issue, and gambling supporters can’t afford to alienate either candidate. If Ehrlich wins, O’Malley will still be Baltimore’s mayor—and thus still an important part of the slot machine campaign issue.

And when can the candidates expect to start receiving these slot machine and gambling industry campaign funds? Some say they may not contribute nearly as much as previous campaigns. Others stress that it is too early for major donations because the candidates do not necessarily like being linked to the companies and organizations that support gambling and slot machines.

According to democratic House Speaker Michael Busch about gambling interests:

"These guys just have too much influence. If you think big oil or big tobacco are bad, they pale in comparison to big gambling. I don't see why any of them would want to lower themselves back into that debate."
 

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