Public Resistance Grows as Maine Weighs Online Casino Bill
Expertise: US Gaming, European Gaming Industry, iGaming
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A survey commissioned by the National Association Against iGaming (NAAiG) and conducted by Lake Research Partners found 64% of likely Maine voters oppose legalizing iGaming, with 49% saying they are strongly opposed. The poll, carried out December 13-16, 2025, among 500 likely voters ahead of the 2026 general election, reported just 16% in favor of permitting online casino games in the state.
Opposition cut across party lines: 69% of Democrats, 58% of Republicans and 70% of independents expressed disapproval. When respondents were presented with common arguments for and against iGaming, resistance increased to nearly 60%, and 51% said they would be less likely to back a lawmaker who voted to legalize online casino play after hearing both sides.
Survey respondents singled out two chief concerns. The largest worry was the industry’s ability to prevent underage access to online gambling platforms, followed by fears that iGaming would exacerbate problem gambling and addiction. The findings arrived as lawmakers and tribal leaders debate Legislative Document 1164, a bill that would authorize the four Wabanaki Nations to offer online casino games in Maine.
RELATED TOPICS: Regulation
