Miriam Adelson Continues Mega-Donor Push For Casino Legislation In Texas Ahead Of 2025 Session

Texas will likely revisit the contentious issue of casino legislation in the 2025 legislative session, and Miriam Adelson, the billionaire widow of Las Vegas Sands founder Sheldon Adelson, continues to lead the charge through massive injections of cash.

According to The Dallas Morning News, Adelson has already contributed $13.7 million in political donations to support the push for expanded gambling in Texas. Despite ongoing and confirmed resistance to legalized gambling from the top lawmakers in the state, this marks a significant increase from the $3.3 million Adelson spent in 2022.

The Texas legislature will convene from Jan. 14 to June 2, 2025, with lawmakers allowed to pre-file bills as early as this past Nov. 11. State Sen. Carol Alvarado wasted no time, introducing SJR 16, a proposed constitutional amendment that would allow for destination resorts and wagering.

However, Texas’ political landscape remains challenging for proponents of expanded gambling. During the 2023 legislative session, a bill permitting statewide mobile sports betting narrowly passed the House but stalled in the Senate.

A separate bill for destination resorts, which included casino provisions, was withdrawn without a vote. Adding to the uphill battle, Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick has consistently stated his opposition to gambling expansion.

Never give up, never surrender

Despite the apparent political gridlock, Adelson’s hefty contributions signal a long-term commitment to reshaping Texas’ gambling laws. The potential economic benefits of casino legalization, through increased tourism, job creation, and tax revenue, have been a cornerstone of her advocacy message.

However, opponents argue that expanded gambling could lead to increased addiction and other societal costs, a debate that has deeply divided lawmakers and constituents alike.

Political experts are highly skeptical about the chances of legalization in 2025. In August, Eilers & Krejcik Gaming, a consulting firm that tracks gambling legislation, removed Texas from its list of states likely to legalize gambling in the near future.

Additionally, Bob Garrett, a political consultant, echoed this sentiment in a recent interview with Texas Spectrum News, stating that Lt. Gov. Patrick’s influence over the Republican caucus in the Senate poses a significant barrier. “The odds are not good,” Garrett said. “For now, Mrs. Adelson, I think, is stalled.”

A duel with politicians

For expanded gambling to become a reality next year, Texas legislators must achieve a two-thirds majority in both the House and Senate to pass a constitutional amendment. If successful, the amendment would then go to Texas voters in November 2025 for final approval.

Public opinion may be tilting slightly in favor of change: An April survey found that 47% of Texans support legalizing sports betting, while 56% favor adding destination resorts. Adelson’s efforts aim to capitalize on this growing public support.

Adelson’s involvement in Texas politics comes as President-elect Donald Trump prepares to return to the White House in 2025. In 2018, Adelson received the Presidential Medal of Freedom from Trump, and she and her late husband were among his top campaign contributors.

With Trump’s influence potentially extending into state-level politics, some speculate that Adelson may have a strategy to sway Texas leadership. Whether this translates into legislative success remains uncertain, but her financial contributions underscore the high stakes of this ongoing battle.

While the political climate appears unfavorable, Adelson’s determination and significant financial backing, along with support from the industry, may yet shift the narrative.