Poarch Band of Creek Indians Shift Strategy to Push Alabama Gambling Bill 

A New Game Plan

The Poarch Band of Creek Indians is shaking up Alabama’s decades-long gambling debate with a fresh strategy to finally pass a comprehensive gaming bill, per an Alabama Political Reporter article.

Arthur Mothershed, Wind Creek Hospitality’s Executive Vice President, said on the Alabama Politics This Week podcast, “I think too often we wait until the session starts and then we start working for this agenda,” urging year-round efforts to sway lawmakers.

Mothershed stressed educating legislators outside the 30-day legislative session, noting, “We’ve got to do a better job of getting the voices of the people of Alabama heard.”

The tribe plans pre-summer polling and focus groups to counter claims that districts oppose gaming, per Alabama Political Reporter. “We’re already in the process of setting up more polling before the summer even starts,” Mothershed said, targeting specific districts where lawmakers cite anti-gaming sentiment.

Polls show 90% of Alabamians back a vote on gambling, with full casinos gaining traction.

Overcoming Vocal Opposition

Alabama’s gambling bills often stall due to vocal anti-gaming groups zeroing in on issues like table games, with some lawmakers using these points to derail legislation.

In 2024, a House-passed bill with casinos, sports betting, and a lottery failed in the Senate by one vote over revenue disputes. Mothershed aims to preempt these tactics, saying, “We’ve done some limited polling on (table games)… to give them information.”

The tribe’s year-round campaign seeks to flip the narrative, highlighting public backing to counter church-led opposition. “The vast majority of people support gambling,” Mothershed noted.

Economic Stakes

The failure to pass a gaming bill has cost Alabama billions, with residents gambling in Mississippi and online. The Poarch Band’s recent purchase of Birmingham Race Course hinged on a comprehensive bill, with plans for a $500 million resort creating thousands of jobs.

“If a comprehensive bill had passed, we’d have been able to launch some pretty elaborate plans,” Mothershed said. Instead, scaled-down upgrades are planned, though a 2026 bill could revive grander designs. VictoryLand’s owners also eye major expansions, potentially adding 10,000 jobs statewide.

The Poarch Band’s strategy hinges on sustained engagement, with Mothershed noting, “If by some chance, a special session, or 2026… they decide to do something… that wouldn’t speed up our plans again,” per Alabama Political Reporter. A 2026 bill could unlock Birmingham’s resort potential, boosting tourism and jobs.