Trump Jr. Advocates for Legalizing Sports Betting in Georgia and Alabama
Donald Trump Jr. Voices Support for Legal Sports Betting in Georgia and Alabama
Donald Trump Jr., son of the former US President, recently expressed his support for legalizing sports betting in the states of Georgia and Alabama. Reacting to a social media post, he described it as “crazy” that residents of these states cannot place wagers on major sporting events, such as high-stakes football matchups between prominent local teams.
Current Situation and Trump Jr.’s Involvement
While Trump Jr. has not made clear whether he will actively campaign for sports betting reform, his remarks come at a time when he is increasingly engaged with prediction markets. This highlights an ongoing discussion around the legalization of sports betting in Georgia, where many bettors currently rely on online sportsbooks operating outside state regulation. Alabama faces a similar scenario, even though most Southeastern Conference (SEC) states have already embraced regulated betting markets.
Sports Betting Landscape in Georgia and Alabama
Both Georgia and Alabama remain among the dozen or so states that have yet to legalize retail or online sports betting. Alabama stands out for also lacking a state lottery, with lawmakers repeatedly blocking initiatives to establish one. Trump Jr. emphasized that this situation needs urgent reform.
Potential for Future Advocacy and Industry Ties
It is uncertain if Trump Jr.’s comments represent a casual opinion or signal upcoming advocacy efforts. Nonetheless, his unique background at the crossroads of politics, investment, and the prediction markets industry lends weight to his views. Notably, he recently joined the advisory board of Polymarket, a prediction markets platform, coinciding with considerable investment from the firm 1789 Capital into the company.
Steps Toward Legalization in Georgia
Though sports betting is illegal in both states, Georgia appears to be taking tentative steps toward legalization. Advocates remain hopeful that 2026 could mark progress after several unsuccessful attempts. Legislative efforts have encountered resistance or constitutional challenges requiring voter approval for changes in gaming laws.
This year, Georgia’s state legislature established a House Study Committee on Gaming to investigate the matter further. The PGA Tour has publicly supported legal sports betting, betting that expanded gaming could generate substantial tax revenues and economic benefits, which may become a compelling argument for lawmakers.
Interest from gambling companies has also emerged; for instance, a Wynn Resorts executive identified Georgia as an attractive location for a high-end casino resort should the state legalize gambling.
Alternative Betting Options and Prediction Markets
Despite restrictions, residents of Georgia and Alabama can still access federally regulated prediction markets legally. One such platform is Kalshi, on whose advisory board Trump Jr. also serves. Kalshi operates nationwide, allowing users to trade contracts on sports outcomes regardless of state-level betting laws.
