Alabama’s next governor will inherit a gambling debate that has repeatedly produced proposals, negotiations, and industry spending without a legalization breakthrough.
Democratic nominee Doug Jones and Republican nominee Tommy Tuberville both support letting voters decide on a lottery, but disagreements over casinos, sports betting, and regulation remain unresolved.
The former and current U.S. senators are competing on the Nov. 3 ballot to succeed term-limited Republican Gov. Kay Ivey. Their contest comes after three consecutive legislative sessions ended without gambling expansion, extending a stalemate that has left Alabama without a state lottery or regulated sportsbooks.
Gambling companies have responded by investing in the politicians who could shape the next debate.
