Maine Voters Show Strong Opposition to Legalising Online Casinos
Poll emerges as governor weighs veto of proposed iGaming legislation
A new public opinion survey suggests that a clear majority of voters in Maine are opposed to the legalisation of online casino gaming, as the state’s governor considers whether to veto proposed iGaming legislation.
The poll, commissioned by the National Association Against iGaming and conducted by Lake Research, found that 64% of Maine voters do not support the introduction of internet casinos. Nearly half of respondents, 49%, said they are strongly opposed, while just 16% indicated support for legalisation.
The findings come as Governor Janet Mills faces a limited window this week to veto LD 1164, a bill that would legalise online casino gambling in the state. The veto period runs from Wednesday through Friday.
The survey indicates that opposition remains firm even when respondents are presented with potential economic benefits, including the prospect of increased revenue for Maine’s tribal gaming operators, which would have exclusive control of online casino wagering under the proposed framework.
In a statement accompanying the poll, the National Association Against iGaming said:
“Only seven states permit iGaming and none since 2023.”
Governor expected to block iGaming bill
Governor Mills, a Democrat, is widely expected to veto the legislation. The proposal faces opposition not only from voters across party lines, but also from operators of Maine’s two commercial casinos, which are owned by Churchill Downs and Penn Entertainment.
Critics have also highlighted the political implications of Maine becoming an outlier in the region. According to the National Association Against iGaming, states with similar political profiles — including Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire and New York — have all rejected online casino expansion.
Jason Gumer, a board member of the association, said:
“If Maine allows iGaming to become law, 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 gambling.”
The poll also suggests potential electoral consequences for lawmakers backing the bill, with 51% of respondents saying they would be less likely to support a political candidate who favours legalising iGaming.
No further iGaming expansion expected in 2026
Currently, only seven US states permit online casino gambling: Connecticut, Delaware, Michigan, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island and West Virginia. With a veto in Maine appearing likely, analysts believe that number is unlikely to increase in 2026.
Industry observers have suggested that no new states may approve iGaming during the year, echoing earlier predictions that Florida could be the only state to consider such expansion before the end of 2027.
As the veto deadline approaches, Gumer said the message from voters is clear:
“With a veto decision imminent, Gov. Mills has a clear signal from voters. Legalizing iGaming is deeply unpopular, politically risky, and viewed as a direct threat to children, families, and communities. The responsible course of action is to veto this legislation.”
