Poll Finds: 64% of Maine Voters Oppose iGaming


Sunset at the end of Maine Wharf, with a look back at the city. There are small boats in the foreground, with buildings behind. Poll Finds: 64% of Maine Voters Oppose iGaming

According to a statewide poll, 64% of Maine voters reject iGaming, with health, social and economic risks cited as factors in why they are opposed to it.

The survey, which included 500 people, was commissioned by the National Association Against iGaming (NAAiG), and the results were released as Gov. Janet Mills has a narrow window between Wednesday and Friday this week to review LD1164which aims to legalize iGambling.

The study results show that almost half of those surveyed (49%) are strongly opposed to its legalization, with these people representing a wide range of parties, including independents, Democrats and Republicans.

The summary for the Maine House Bill 1164 is as follows: “An Act to Create Economic Opportunities for the Wabanaki nations thanks to Internet games.’

It is now held by the governor and was first introduced in March 2025. The bill has nine sponsors. In June, it passed 85-59 before going through another vote in the House and then the Senate. Now it could face a veto from Gov. Janet Mills, but there’s little time left for that to happen.

Decision on iGaming in Maine will come this week

Looking at the study, the main reason for opposition is due to “the industry’s failure to prevent teenagers and children from playing online.” This was closely followed by concerns about an increase in addiction and problem gambling.

Just over half of voters (51%) say they would be less likely to support a lawmaker who voted in favor of legalizing iGaming after hearing the arguments for and against.

Speaking on the upcoming controversial decision, NAAiG board member Jason Gumer said in a statement press release: “If Maine allows the adoption of iGaming, the state will stand out as an outlier in New England and across the country at a time when other governors and legislatures are hearing from their constituents and choosing not to move forward with this highly addictive form of gaming.

“The results ring loud and clear: Maine voters reject iGaming when they understand it puts a 24/7 casino on the same smartphones their kids use.”

Featured Image: Credit to Corey Templeton on FlickrCC2.0 license

The position Poll Finds: 64% of Maine Voters Oppose iGaming appeared first on ReadWrite.





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