Indiana Voters Strongly Reject Online Casino Expansion

Initial awareness of iGaming was low, with 65% of voters unsure of what it entailed. However, once voters were told iGaming grants 24-hour access to slot machines and casino table games via mobile devices, opposition immediately rose to 58%.

Opposition Grows With Knowledge of Risks

The political landscape hardened significantly when voters were informed of the social costs. After learning about the economic and mental health impacts observed in states that have legalized iGaming, opposition soared to 67%. Nearly half of all voters, 49%, stated they were strongly opposed to legalization.

Opposition transcended party lines and demographic groups. Democrats (70%) and Republicans (68%) both expressed strong resistance.

The strongest opposition came from seniors (82%) and women (72%). Even among voters who live in counties that already host land-based casinos, 59% opposed the digital expansion after hearing about the associated risks.

Industry Arguments Fail to Persuade

Opponents argue that this broad resistance shows voters see through the industry’s marketing claims. NAAiG Board Member Daniel A. Reinhard confirmed the survey tested the strongest arguments put forward by iGaming proponents, such as claims about increased tax revenue and consumer protections.

Even after considering these pro-iGaming arguments, a plurality (48%) of voters still opposed legalization. Reinhard stated that the poll demonstrates “no amount of marketing spin can overcome the serious social and economic concerns that come with iGaming.”

Indiana voters, he said, understand the difference between responsible, in-person entertainment and having a “24-hour online casino in every pocket.”