Mississippi Voters Strongly Oppose Expansion of Online Betting in State Polls
In a decisive indication of statewide sentiment, a recent poll shows that the majority of Mississippians are firmly against the expansion of online sports betting and iGaming in the state. Commissioned by the National Association Against iGaming (NAAiG), this poll reveals a clear stance among the constituents, highlighting a significant resistance to the notion of a 'casino in your pocket.' As Mississippi lawmakers reconvene to discuss proposed legislation aimed at allowing mobile sports wagering, the implications of the poll's findings urge a reconsideration of potential state policies.
Conducted in January 2026, the polling data showcases that nearly 74.2% of Mississippi voters oppose the legalization of mobile sports betting, especially when informed it would enable betting through mobile devices statewide. This resistance escalates even further concerning iGaming; once voters grasp that it entails remote access to 24/7 online casino-style games, opposition surges to a robust 80.8%. Public concerns are amplified by a formal letter from a coalition of local casino operators and the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians' Pearl River Resorts. In this correspondence, the coalition warns state leaders that such a legislative shift could compromise billions of dollars invested in the state's traditional gaming sector since 1992 and place thousands of local jobs at risk.
The coalition provided compelling arguments against online gambling expansion, emphasizing potential economic pitfalls. For instance, while traditional retail casinos keep revenue within the state, online sports betting could siphon profits away to out-of-state corporations, primarily impacting Mississippi's local economy.
Moreover, there's a concern over job displacement within the industry. 'In-play' wagering via mobile devices threatens to diminish physical patronage at brick-and-mortar casinos, negatively impacting associated hospitality jobs. The coalition notes projected additional tax revenues of just $11 million would not justify a significant shift away from existing gaming practices, especially given Mississippi's substantial $7 billion state budget.
Public health experts warn of the societal repercussions linked to online gambling. Citing research from other states where online betting is legalized, officials highlight a stark 67% increase in gambling addiction-related web searches. Additionally, bankruptcy filings among financially-strapped households rose by 30% following the introduction of these betting practices elsewhere. Such statistics raise alarms about the dangerous patterns of irresponsible gambling behaviors that could be exacerbated in Mississippi if online betting were to be legalized.
As Oliver Barie, Government Relations Director for the NAAiG noted, 'This data proves that online gambling is a product that Mississippi simply does not want.' The anticipation of communities transforming into gambling hubs with constant access to betting raises deep concerns among residents.
The coalition opposing the online gambling expansion comprises prominent figures from various casinos, including:
The overwhelming response from Mississippi voters against the legalization of online sports betting and iGaming paints a clear picture: the community prioritizes local employment and stable economies over the transient gains projected by online operators. As legislative discussions continue, it remains critical to balance modernization in gambling with the preservation of the values and jobs at stake in Mississippi.
Key Findings from the Poll
Conducted in January 2026, the polling data showcases that nearly 74.2% of Mississippi voters oppose the legalization of mobile sports betting, especially when informed it would enable betting through mobile devices statewide. This resistance escalates even further concerning iGaming; once voters grasp that it entails remote access to 24/7 online casino-style games, opposition surges to a robust 80.8%. Public concerns are amplified by a formal letter from a coalition of local casino operators and the Mississippi Band of Choctaw Indians' Pearl River Resorts. In this correspondence, the coalition warns state leaders that such a legislative shift could compromise billions of dollars invested in the state's traditional gaming sector since 1992 and place thousands of local jobs at risk.
Economic and Social Risks
The coalition provided compelling arguments against online gambling expansion, emphasizing potential economic pitfalls. For instance, while traditional retail casinos keep revenue within the state, online sports betting could siphon profits away to out-of-state corporations, primarily impacting Mississippi's local economy.
Moreover, there's a concern over job displacement within the industry. 'In-play' wagering via mobile devices threatens to diminish physical patronage at brick-and-mortar casinos, negatively impacting associated hospitality jobs. The coalition notes projected additional tax revenues of just $11 million would not justify a significant shift away from existing gaming practices, especially given Mississippi's substantial $7 billion state budget.
Public Health Considerations
Public health experts warn of the societal repercussions linked to online gambling. Citing research from other states where online betting is legalized, officials highlight a stark 67% increase in gambling addiction-related web searches. Additionally, bankruptcy filings among financially-strapped households rose by 30% following the introduction of these betting practices elsewhere. Such statistics raise alarms about the dangerous patterns of irresponsible gambling behaviors that could be exacerbated in Mississippi if online betting were to be legalized.
As Oliver Barie, Government Relations Director for the NAAiG noted, 'This data proves that online gambling is a product that Mississippi simply does not want.' The anticipation of communities transforming into gambling hubs with constant access to betting raises deep concerns among residents.
Coalition Representation
The coalition opposing the online gambling expansion comprises prominent figures from various casinos, including:
- - Churchill Downs (Harlow's Casino Resort & Spa, River Walk Casino Hotel)
- - Foundation Gaming & Entertainment (Fitz Casino Hotel, WaterView Casino Hotel)
- - Full House Resorts (Silver Slipper Casino Hotel)
- - Gulfside Casino Partnership (Island View Casino Resort)
- - Pearl River Resorts (Golden Moon Hotel and Casino)
Conclusion
The overwhelming response from Mississippi voters against the legalization of online sports betting and iGaming paints a clear picture: the community prioritizes local employment and stable economies over the transient gains projected by online operators. As legislative discussions continue, it remains critical to balance modernization in gambling with the preservation of the values and jobs at stake in Mississippi.
Topics Policy & Public Interest）
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