The 2025 election results have a profound impact on the American gaming industry, with key state election outcomes determining the issuance of casino licenses, tax adjustments, and regulatory directions, involving areas such as New York, New Jersey, Texas, and Pennsylvania.
New York City Mayor Election and Casino Development
In the New York City mayoral election, the Democratic Socialist Zoran Mamdani won with his youth and far-left policies, becoming the youngest mayor in over a century. As a Muslim, he personally opposes gambling, but noted that casino site selection is under state government jurisdiction. Bidders for the three casino licenses in southern New York, such as Bally's Bronx, Resorts World NYC, and Metropolitan Park, have proposed multi-billion dollar plans that may be affected by Mamdani's tax policies. Former Governor Cuomo promoted the expansion of the gaming industry, including the legalization of online sports betting, but the new mayor's neutral stance could introduce uncertainties.
New Jersey Governor Transition and Gambling Challenges
New Jersey elected Democrat Mikie Sherrill as governor, succeeding Phil Murphy. Sherrill faces three major gambling issues: indoor smoking in casinos, casino expansion beyond Atlantic City, and tax rate adjustments. Murphy raised the sports betting tax rate to 19.75%, and Sherrill might continue this policy, but the expansion of New York casinos may force New Jersey to accelerate reforms. The smoking issue has already attracted advocacy group attention, and Sherrill has criticized supporters of smoking, but has not made a clear stance.
Texas Election and Setbacks for the Sands Group
The Texas Senate election has gone to a second round, with the Las Vegas Sands Group-supported candidate John Hoffman failing, showing resistance to casino expansion. The Sands Group had planned to develop a resort in Dallas but withdrew due to local opposition. The state legislature will not reconvene until 2027, and anti-gambling forces like Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick continue to obstruct legislation. Democratic candidate Taylor Lehmet is leading, but the future of the gambling industry remains unclear.
Pennsylvania Court and Skill Games
The Pennsylvania Supreme Court election maintained a Democratic majority, and the court may continue to support skill games (unregulated slot-style games). In March this year, the court ruled that the gaming regulatory authority's refusal to issue a license was incorrect, emphasizing that businesses have the right to believe skill games are legal. The casino industry has long lobbied against it, but the court's stance may encourage the proliferation of such games.
