The American Gaming Association (AGA) wants presidential candidates to visit Las Vegas casinos to learn and better understand the positive effects of the gaming industry.
Florida Governor Jeb Bush, who seeks the GOP presidential nomination, recently told a Nevada political reporter that he doesn’t like gambling. The AGA responded by inviting all candidates to come to Nevada and learn more about the gaming industry.
“Gaming is the lifeblood of Nevada’s economy, and we invite Governor Bush to visit a casino and meet gaming employees in Nevada in order to better understand our industry,” AGA Senior Vice President of Public Affairs Sara Rayme said.
“Candidates seeking votes in Nevada shouldn’t be averse to stepping … inside a casino, because they don’t like gambling. The reality is that embracing casino gaming will boost, not hurt, a candidate’s campaign.”
Direct gaming taxes make up 47 percent of Nevada’s general fund revenue, while casino gaming contributes $53 billion to the Nevada’s economy, supports 425,000 jobs and generates nearly $8 billion in tax revenue, according to the AGA.
Earlier this year, the AGA launched its “Gaming Votes” initiative, which educates candidates about the gaming industry and informs gaming employees about the candidates via a voter guide.
The AGA is a national trade group representing the $240 billion U.S. casino industry, which supports 1.7 million jobs in 40 states.
AGA members include commercial and tribal casino operators, suppliers and other entities affiliated with the gaming industry.
