Texas AG Candidates Oppose Online Casino Expansion

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Texas AG Candidates Oppose Online Casino Expansion

Texas Attorney General (AG) candidates are taking firm stances against gambling expansion, making clear their opposition to legal online casinos and online sportsbooks. Their comments come as the state continues to debate how, or if, digital gambling should be regulated within Texas borders.

Texas AG Candidates Taking a Hardline Stance

Four Republican candidates for Texas Attorney General have also pledged to uphold strict enforcement of gambling laws and reject proposals to legalize online sportsbooks or real money online casinos.

Aaron Reitz promised to use “every lawful tool available, including legal opinions, cooperation with local and federal authorities, and consumer protection enforcement. to ensure Texas gambling laws are upheld.”

Joan Huffman, a longtime opponent of gambling expansion, emphasized consistency: 

“As a State Senator, I have opposed any efforts to expand gambling in Texas. As Attorney General, I will remain dedicated to enforcing our state laws.”

Meanwhile, Chip Roy took a legal approach, saying, “I oppose online gambling and other forms of gambling in Texas. I will pursue all litigation to enforce the law and ensure it remains clear.”

Lastly, Mayes Middleton framed his opposition constitutionally, noting, 

“Our laws and Constitution are not suggestions. I will pursue litigation against any company or politician that treats them as such.”

While their rhetoric differs, all four share the same conclusion: Texas should not move toward legalized online casinos or online sportsbooks.

What’s Next for Texas Online Gambling?

Given these unified stances, the future of Texas online gambling looks increasingly uncertain. Industry experts warn that such resistance could push Texas further behind states like Michigan and New Jersey, where regulated real money online casinos thrive under robust consumer protections.

Unified Opposition Signals Prolonged Stalemate

The attorney general candidates’ shared opposition to expanding online gambling suggests that Texas is unlikely to legalize or regulate sports betting anytime soon. 

Each candidate’s commitment to enforcing existing laws reinforces the state’s long-standing resistance to most forms of gambling beyond the lottery, horse racing, and charitable gaming.

While neighboring states like Louisiana and Arkansas have already launched regulated sports betting markets, Texas continues to face political and moral hurdles. 

The candidates’ remarks indicate that any future legalization effort would likely face intense scrutiny from state leadership, especially on issues of consumer protection, addiction, and constitutional authority.

In short, the next attorney general’s stance could maintain the status quo, delaying efforts by operators and lawmakers pushing for a regulated, tax-generating sports betting market in Texas.

Lieutenant Governor’s Re-Election Could Stall Progress

Adding to the roadblocks, Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick’s re-election bid could further stall progress on gambling reform. Patrick has long opposed expanding gambling laws, blocking pro-sports betting bills from reaching the Senate floor.

His continued leadership would likely preserve the political barriers that have kept gambling reform out of serious discussion. As one of the state’s most influential figures, Patrick controls which bills reach debate; this means that even bipartisan or industry-supported proposals for online casinos and online sportsbooks could remain stuck indefinitely.

For Texans eager to explore safe and regulated betting experiences, we have curated a trusted ranking of top online sportsbooks and online casinos for responsible, enjoyable play.