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Riley Fights Alabama Gambling Despite Public Wishes
MONTGOMERY, ALABAMA --
Alabama Governor Bob Riley continues his desperate struggle to shut down any semblance of gambling in the state, despite a new poll showing his constituents say they want regulated gaming. According to the poll by Samford University, only 25 percent of the state's residents support Riley's efforts to eradicate gambling.
Electronic bingo in the state has led to an ongoing legal and verbal battle between the governor's people on one side, and the state attorney general and municipal governments on the other. Riley says the game is not legal, but local authorities maintain that the businesses Riley wants to close are a primary source of jobs and revenue.
The poll shows that over 60 percent of Alabamans think casinos would be a good source of revenue and lead to economic growth. Randolph Horn, the Samford professor conducting the poll, said that support for gambling crosses such divisions as political party, and that all subgroups tested are in favor of some legalized gambling.
State lawmakers are saying a new state law allowing the electronic bingo could put the issue to rest. If the legislature approves the bill, it would then advance to a place on the ballot for the general election.
"The governor has an opinion, the attorney general has an opinion, and now it is in the court, " said state Representative Warren Beck, speaking on the casino and gambling debate. "When you have a complicated issue like this, the people should have a right to vote."
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