Texas: Opposed to Bigger Govt and Increased Crime

Gambling proponents may get help from new lawmakers

When 22 Democrats in the Legislature failed to get re-elected on Election Day, a lot of people wrote off any chance of passing a bill to expand gambling in Texas.

Many Republicans have long been opposed to increased gambling in Texas. Whether it's slot machines at racetracks or full-blown casinos, the social conservative component of the Republican Party has contributed to squashing gambling measures in previous Legislatures.

Isaac said one of his concerns is that gambling could lead to bigger government — something that he and many other newly elected people staunchly oppose.

The position of Paul Workman, another newly elected Central Texas Republican, proves that gambling proponents will have to work for every vote. He said he'll oppose a gambling measure.

Workman, who defeated Rep. Valinda Bolton, D-Austin , said he enjoys trips to Las Vegas and does not see gambling as evil. But he thinks expanded gambling of any kind in Texas would be a mistake. He might not be opposed to gambling on moral grounds, but he objects to the crime and other social costs associated with it.

"I think it brings more trouble than it solves," he said. "I think it would add an undue burden to cities and counties."

Justin Keener, vice president of the Texas Public Policy Foundation, a conservative think tank, said new lawmakers won't necessarily favor expanded gambling for its ability to raise revenue. Many were elected by voters who want the government to spend less money. They want lawmakers to balance the budget with existing revenue, and they don't want them to seek new sources of money, like gambling.

Additionally, some lawmakers might not vote in favor of gambling for fear of backlash from the socially conservative wing of the Republican Party.

Gov. Rick Perry has said he does not want to expand the footprint of gambling in Texas, but his signature is not required on a proposed constitutional amendment.