Tuesday Buzz: Casino Industry Ramps Up 2016 Initiative

Tonight’s Democratic presidential debate will be held at the Wynn Las Vegas resort and casino, a fact that isn’t lost on the American Gaming Association  (opens in a new tab) (AGA) as it continues the first voting initiative in its history.

“Gaming Votes”  (opens in a new tab) is the association’s effort to turn the nearly 500,000 jobs supported by casino gaming into an influential voting bloc that ensures the industry’s views are acknowledged by the broad field of candidates.

“All presidential candidates should embrace casino gaming and understand that doing so will help, not hinder, one’s chances of gaining more votes,” Sara Rayme, AGA senior vice president of public affairs, said in a statement  (opens in a new tab). “We look forward to showing candidates the ins and outs of today’s gaming industry and the significant positive impact we have on the economy across the nation.”

To set the stage for tonight’s debate, AGA has released five key facts it wants candidates and the public to know, including that the casino industry generates $240 billion and provides $38 billion in tax revenue, that it contributes $53 billion to Nevada’s economy, and that casinos are prohibited from offering daily fantasy sports.

Ahead of 1st-ever debate at a casino, here are 5 facts about gaming that aren’t debatable #GamingVotes  (opens in a new tab) #CNNDebate  (opens in a new tab) pic.twitter.com/r67K5clBLK  (opens in a new tab)

— American Gaming Association (@AmericanGaming) October 13, 2015  (opens in a new tab)

In addition to its five facts, AGA has created a cheat sheet for presidential candidates  (opens in a new tab) with more information about the industry and its contributions to the economy.

Webinar of the Day

Giving Tuesday is December 1 this year, but if you’re already feeling the pressure from that close deadline, this Giving Tuesday Nonprofit Playbook webinar  (opens in a new tab), featuring nonprofit expert Beth Kanter  (opens in a new tab), could be just what you need to get prepared.

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(fergregory/ThinkStock)