Missouri’s Sports Betting Battle Escalates: Major Players Shift Tactics
“Missourians Against the Deceptive Online Gambling Amendment” redirected over $1 million from TV concentrate on grassroots efforts. Supported by $14.2 million from Caesars Entertainment, the opposition is concerned that the amendment might enable online platforms to circumvent collaborations with Missouri casinos, jeopardizing the state’s gambling sector.
Opposition Shifts Strategy to Local Outreach
Initially planning a $4 million advertising blitz, the opposition campaign has now pivoted to direct community engagement, hoping to build support by connecting with voters on a personal level.
Caesars, one of the largest contributors, emphasizes the risks that unregulated online platforms could pose to local casinos, betting that a more hands-on approach will sway undecided voters before Election Day.
Supporters Roll Out Big Guns with Pro-Sports Endorsements
Meanwhile, supporters of the amendment, led by the “Winning for Missouri Education” campaign, are doubling down on their $31.6 million war chest, funded largely by FanDuel and DraftKings.
Their TV ads, featuring former St. Louis Cardinals star Ozzie Smith, highlight the potential benefits of sports betting, including the promise of tax revenue for education.
With pro-sports endorsements and promises of economic growth, the campaign is betting big that voters will see the value in regulated sports betting.
What was once a clear lead for supporters has narrowed in recent weeks, with polls showing the gap closing. Both sides are now making their final pushes, hoping to shape the future of sports betting in Missouri.
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