Management changes in Texas, casino legislation could be on the agenda

In the US midterm elections, Democrats won the majority in Congress and secured notable victories in several Republican strongholds. Among the states where the effects on the gambling industry could be most significant, Texas stands out.

Texas is one of the largest untapped gambling markets in the United States. Under Republican Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, such a change seemed unlikely. Patrick had said he could be open to legalizing sports betting and land-based casino projects if a large majority of Republicans in the state senate wanted it. However, that possibility was weak, and in practice Patrick had opposed the industry. In 2026, he also took steps to prevent prediction markets from operating in the state.

Now the picture in Texas has changed. Democrat Vikki Goodwin is replacing Patrick. Goodwin is reported to support broader expansion of commercial casinos and online sports betting through public referendums. There is also a figure in the Senate who will support her. James Talarico became the first Democrat to win a Texas Senate seat since 1988.

Talarico is reported to have received a $59,000 donation in 2024 from a political action committee backed and funded by Miriam Adelson, the main shareholder who controls Las Vegas Sands.

The Ohio governor race was also important. Democrat Amy Acton won. Republican Mike DeWine could not run again because he had completed two terms. The opening of Ohio's online sports betting market took place during his time in office. DeWine later described signing the gambling law as his "biggest mistake" and said he wanted micro prop bets banned.