Wisconsin poll shows 64% of residents oppose online sports betting

A Marquette Law School poll found 64% of Wisconsin voters oppose legalizing online sports betting, including 61% of Republicans, 66% of Democrats, and 74% of independents. Public opposition against the measure comes amid Assembly passage of a tribal wagering bill now awaiting Senate action.

The survey, conducted from February 11 to February 19, gathered responses from 818 registered voters statewide. It reported that 34% of voters support legalization.

Opposition appeared across political affiliations. Among Republican respondents, 61% said they oppose legalization. Among Democrats, 66% reported opposition. Independents registered the highest level of opposition at 74%.

The poll also measured responses by religious service attendance. Of those who attend religious services at least weekly, 71% said they oppose legalized online sports wagering. Among respondents who attend less often, 62% indicated opposition.

The Wisconsin Assembly passed legislation last week that would permit the state’s tribes to conduct online sports wagering under state agreements. The bill was approved on the chamber’s final day of business after an earlier November vote was delayed.

Sen. Chris Kapenga, R-Delafield, wrote in a newsletter that legislative offices "got slammed with emails urging opposition" before the Assembly postponed its earlier vote. He compared arguments that sports wagering is already occurring in Wisconsin to arguments used in support of marijuana legalization.

"Besides the dangers of gambling addiction and its social costs, I’m not a fan of funneling more money to one party that holds a monopoly on sports wagering in Wisconsin," Kapenga wrote. "The Governor has expressed support for this proposal and has tremendous power over its outcome. I certainly wouldn’t want to bet the house on him doing the right thing."

Senate leadership has not indicated whether it plans to take up the bill or provided a timeline for further consideration.