Poll shows support for casino gaming in Kentucky

“In today’s political climate, to have 87% of voters demonstrate support for any issue is remarkable,” said Brett Hale, Churchill Downs Inc.’s senior vice president of corporate and government affairs. “We look forward to sharing this data with decision makers in Frankfort and working with the governor and the Legislature to pass a constitutional amendment and subsequent enabling legislation that ensures the protection of Kentucky’s signature horse industry for generations to come.”

The survey polled 612 Kentucky residents from December 12-14 and has a margin of error of 4%. Various horse racing interests in Kentucky commissioned the poll.

“We are encouraged by, and would agree with, Kentuckians’ strong desire to participate in a statewide vote on casino gaming,” said Vince Gabbert, vice president and chief operating officer for the Keeneland Association. “Kentucky’s horse industry continues to face increasing competition from neighboring states that use revenue from casino gaming to provide incentives to racing and breeding operations. By acting now, we have a chance to stem the tide and keep Kentucky’s signature industry from falling further behind.”

Kentucky Governor Steve Beshear told reporters on December 14 that he will unveil a constitutional amendment in 2012 to the Legislature to expand gambling. “We’re going to go all out to get expanded gaming on the ballot,” Beshear said during a parade celebrating his second inauguration as governor.

The bill will have to go through the Senate, which is led by State Senator David Williams, who lost the gubernatorial election to Beshear. Williams opposes expanded gambling in Kentucky but said he believes there are enough votes in the Senate to approve such a bill.