Record Spending in Missouri Sports Betting Campaign Ahead of November Vote

By Matt Speakman,
Betting Expert at online-gambling.com

Matt Speakman Betting Expert at online-gambling.com

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Last updated: October 15, 2024

The tension between supporters and opponents of legalizing sports betting in Missouri is growing, with more than $35 million spent on campaigns ahead of the November 5 election. Big names like Caesars Entertainment, DraftKings, and FanDuel are pouring money into the debate over legalizing sports betting in the state. While this amount isn’t the highest ever seen nationwide, it’s a big investment for a state with just 6.2 million people.

Major Contributions from Caesars, DraftKings, and FanDuel

By early October, both sides of the sports betting debate had poured millions into their campaigns, according to the Missouri Ethics Commission. Caesars Entertainment, which runs three casinos in the state, has led the opposition with $10.9 million in contributions. Recent donations include $3.4 million from Isle of Capri in Booneville and $3.3 million from Harrah’s North Kansas City.

Caesars is the only land-based casino fighting the initiative and has a lot to lose. Unlike earlier proposals. Amendment 2 limits casino operators to one sports betting platform, which could reduce flexibility for companies like Caesars.

Others also supported the initiative with major donations. DraftKings gave another $5 million this week to the “Winning for Missouri Education” campaign, matching its September contribution. FanDuel added $5 million, bringing the total support to over $26 million.

Sports Betting and Casino Expansion on the Ballot

In November, Missouri voters will weigh in on two gambling amendments. Amendment 2 would legalize sports betting, with support from the state’s pro sports teams and online betting companies, though the teams haven’t donated to the campaign. The proposal lets the state’s 13 casinos offer sports betting but only allows one platform per operator.

Amendment 5 asks voters whether to add one more casino license, raising the total from 13 to 14. If passed, it would allow a new casino to be built at Lake of the Ozarks.

As the election nears, Missouri’s political scene is adding to the debate. Both Democratic candidate Crystal Quade and Republican nominee Mike Kehoe support legalizing sports betting. Libertarian Bill Slanz is also in favor but worries it could benefit big companies over small businesses. Green Party candidate Paul Lehmann opposes the move.