A Virginia casino measure advances, but another in Arkansas gets defeated
In the recent elections, gambling and casino expansion were major topics in Virginia and Arkansas, where voters took distinct approaches toward casino development. These results highlight how public opinion on gambling remains divided across the country.
In Virginia, the city of Petersburg saw a strong majority in favor of building a new casino. About 82% of local voters supported a $1.4 billion project led by The Cordish Companies, which plans to build a casino featuring a hotel, multiple entertainment options, and a substantial gaming area.
This development is expected to generate $2.8 billion in economic benefits over the next decade, including $240 million in tax revenue—a significant boost for Petersburg as it continues to recover from recent financial troubles. Mayor Sam Parham welcomed the outcome, noting it paves the way for economic growth and new jobs. Construction is expected to begin in 2025, with an anticipated opening in 2026.
In contrast, Arkansas voters passed Issue 2 with 55.8% approval, introducing more stringent regulations around casino licenses. This new amendment requires countywide votes for any future casino proposals and removes the Arkansas Racing Commission’s authority to issue a casino license in Pope County.
The decision follows a series of legal battles and community pushback related to a license initially awarded to the Cherokee Nation. With this amendment, any future developments will be decided directly by county residents, giving local communities more control over casino projects.
The differing outcomes in Virginia and Arkansas demonstrate a clear divide in how communities view the economic and social impact of casinos. While some areas are eager to embrace casino projects for their potential economic benefits, others are focused on exercising caution and retaining local control.
