Gone are the days when marketing related efforts by casinos has to be somewhat muted for fear of turning off potential patrons who were likely more interested in a casino’s entertainment or dining selections than its gambling options.
According to the findings of a new national poll shared by the AGA, public approval for casino gaming is now at all-time highs.
Voters across the political spectrum view casino gaming more favorably than ever before, according to a new nationwide poll conducted by respected political pollsters Mark Mellman and Glen Bolger, and the vast majority recognizes that casino gaming creates jobs, strengthens local businesses and benefits communities. The new survey also squashes stereotypes of the typical casino visitor.
Per the insight gleaned from the published data:
- By a 2-1 margin, American voters view casino gaming favorably
- More than 70 percent of voters recognize that casinos create jobs
- Nearly 60 percent of voters know that casinos boost local economies
- A majority says casinos shouldn’t pay more taxes than other businesses
The timely findings come as many state policymakers begin to re-examine punitive gaming taxes, inefficient regulations and other threats to casinos in an increasingly competitive environment, the American Gaming Association writes, noting that the results also come at the same time the AGA is releasing the latest nationwide gross gaming revenues, which increased one percent from $37.34 billion in 2012 to $37.78 billion in 2013.
“Voters recognize that casinos are a mainstream form of entertainment and an economic driver that supports jobs and boosts growth in communities across the nation,” said Geoff Freeman, CEO of the American Gaming Association. “Casino visitors are a portrait of the American electorate, and voters are giving policymakers permission to treat casinos like any other business. The AGA will aggressively pave the way for policies that reflect voters’ favorable view of gaming, protects jobs and promotes innovation.”
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