Poll : 30 July - 12 August 2008

Analysis

As expected, we got a passionate response on this one—the total of 4,799 was one of the biggest single-vote tallies ever. As has been the case with every poll we’ve seen on online gambling, there was resounding support for legalization. However, the spread in the Yes/No percentages was more narrow than in other polls we’ve seen. With all three Yes categories totaled, 68% were in favor of legalization, while 32% were opposed via two No categories. That’s a convincing majority, but less than the 75%-92% (in favor) that we’ve seen from other sources.

Our poll was different from most on this subject in that it gave options to qualify a Yes or No vote, and that yielded some interesting results. For starters, considering the 17% who voted No due to "recent scandals," it could be argued that as high as 85% would be in favor if online gambling was properly regulated. But it also illustrates that online problems (hole-card spying in poker likely being the most prominent) are not going unnoticed. We also found it interesting that the traditional 15% or so that are categorically opposed to online gambling exist even here, on a Las Vegas and gambling site.

The main reason for a Yes vote was the basic rights-and-liberties argument—"if they want to play, let ‘em play." And a solid 41% indicated that they either do already, or would, gamble online if there was proper regulation. It’s a result that causes us to reflect on earlier plans to act as a go-between for players and reputable sites. We don’t foresee reliable regulation in the near future, but responsible third-party oversight seems to be the next best thing—but only if that third party had enough clout with the online sites to exert influence.

Thanks to all who voted on this important matter.