DraftKings, a Boston-based operator, is looking to enter the legal sports betting market in Texas, the second most-populated state in the country. In an effort to push for legalization, DraftKings has posted a job listing for a government affairs specialist who will work towards this goal when lawmakers reconvene for a new legislative session in January.
However, conservative Republicans in Texas pose a significant obstacle to the legalization of sports betting. While a sports betting bill managed to pass through the House last year, it ultimately failed to gain approval in the Senate. Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, who oversees the Senate, has made it clear that he will only consider bills that receive majority support from the GOP caucus.
Despite these challenges, DraftKings remains hopeful, especially after a successful lobbying campaign in Missouri where voters narrowly approved the legalization of sports betting on November 5. DraftKings, along with FanDuel, invested nearly $41 million to support the initiative in Missouri, demonstrating their commitment to expanding into new markets.
The potential for legal sports betting in Texas is immense and would require substantial investment in lobbying efforts to gain traction. DraftKings is not the only gambling company looking to capitalize on this opportunity in the Lone Star State. Las Vegas Sands, for example, is pushing for the legalization of commercial casinos in Texas and has spent millions in recent years to persuade lawmakers to support expansion.
Miriam Adelson, the biggest shareholder of Las Vegas Sands, even went as far as purchasing a majority stake in the Dallas Mavericks NBA team to establish a stronger presence in the state. This move highlights the significant interest and investment that gambling companies are making to secure a foothold in the potentially lucrative Texas market.
In conclusion, the push for legal sports betting in Texas is gaining momentum, with DraftKings and other gambling companies actively lobbying for legislative change. The outcome of these efforts remains uncertain, given the resistance from conservative lawmakers, but the potential rewards for successfully entering the Texas market are substantial. It will be interesting to see how the legalization of sports betting and potentially commercial casinos unfold in the state in the coming months and years.