Ohio Gubernatorial Candidates Split on iGaming Expansion: Democrats and Libertarians Signal Support While Republican Remains Silent

Ohio Democratic gubernatorial nominee Amy Acton and Libertarian candidate Don Kissick support expanding online gambling to generate additional state revenue, while Republican rival Vivek Ramaswamy has yet to publicly outline his position. The stances emerged from interviews with Cleveland.com, as reported by Yogonet International.

Ohio’s next governor will influence gambling policy on online expansion, sports betting taxation, problem gambling treatment and consumer protections. The state has four casinos, seven racinos and legal sports betting that launched in 2023. The sector generated a record $3.5 billion in revenue last year, according to the American Gaming Association.

Candidate Positions on Expansion, Revenue and Regulation

Acton’s campaign said revenue from expanded iGaming would fund public schools, childcare and property tax relief. It did not specify which forms of online gambling she would pursue, though prior proposals have included online casino games, poker, internet horse-race betting and iLottery products. Addie Bullock, spokeswoman for Acton’s campaign, said: “Amy is open to responsibly expanding iGaming … to increase revenue in Ohio to fund our priorities.”

Acton supports new restrictions on microprop bets while keeping the 20% sports betting tax unchanged. She opposes a broader ban on proposition bets. Bullock said: “Consumers should be able to spend their money how they please.” Acton also backs stronger responsible gambling measures, such as banning ads aimed at those under 21, barring promotions promising “guaranteed wins” or “risk-free bets,” expanding self-exclusion and restricting active athletes and celebrities from targeting at-risk gamblers.

Kissick supports expansion because “prohibition does not work.” He argues legalization channels activity through licensed operators rather than illegal markets. Kissick opposes frequent changes to sports betting laws because they complicate operator compliance. He is open to increased funding for addiction treatment but rejects excessive government intervention.

Policy Context and Election Implications

Ramaswamy’s campaign did not respond to questions on the topic. Ohio’s online gambling consumer protections scored 57 out of 100, a D-minus, from the Center for Addiction Science, Policy, and Research. Governor Mike DeWine has called signing the sports betting legislation his biggest regret and has advocated tighter restrictions.

This mix of candidate views creates a clear inflection point for regulated gaming in the state. Operators and investors will need to track the outcome closely, as the winner’s priorities on revenue, compliance and safeguards will shape the next phase of policy.

Reporting: Yogonet International