A new poll by Survey USA, commissioned by WRAL in Raleigh indicates 55 percent of residents strongly or somewhat support allowing slots and table games in rural areas of the state. The survey of 850 adults, taken March 6-9, also found 28 percent strongly or somewhat oppose casinos; 16 percent were unsure. Supporters include 61 percent of men and 65 percent aged 35-49.
The Survey USA poll mirrors a poll conducted last month by Meredith College in Raleigh, which indicated 57 percent of likely North Carolina voters support commercial casinos.
Public support for casino gambling isn’t required in North Carolina, as the state constitution does not prohibit gambling. The state currently has three tribal casinos, online sports betting, and a lottery.
Efforts to pass legislation allowing casino gambling has not been successful. Last year, state Senate President Pro Tempore Phil Berger sponsored a bill allowing three commercial casinos in the rural counties of Rockingham, Anson, and Nash. Berger had lined up Maryland-based Cordish Companies, operators of Live! casinos and mixed-use entertainment districts, as a potential developer. The bill ultimately failed.
Casino gambling is unlikely to get a boost from North Carolina’s next governor, with candidates Attorney General Josh Stein and Lieutenant Governor Mark Robinson both having expressed opposition.
The General Assembly will convene on April 24.
