Voters in Maine Reject Two Plans for Gambling Expansion

Voters in Maine rejected a proposed gambling expansion on Tuesday, granting a setback to forces that had hoped to capitalize on the momentum from last year’s successful gambling vote.

Main Voters had three statewide questions to vote on, two of which were related to gambling. Question 2 asked whether the state should allow racinos in Biddeford and Washington County, and was the closer of the two measures. In the end, 55% of voters were opposed to the measure, while 44% supported it.

A separate measure, Question 3, asked voters to consider allowing the building of a casino in Lewiston. This proposal was overwhelmingly rejected, with 63% of voters coming out against the proposal.

"The people of Maine have renewed my faith in them," said James Bartlett of York, a board member for Casinos No! told Seacoast Online. "It's such a powerful statement, saying 'We've had enough. You can't just keep coming back with one proposal after another.'"

Bartlett was likely referring to the 2010 vote, Question 1, that allowed for the creation of a casino in Oxford. That vote was close and contentious, with Casinos No! being one of the major voices against the proposed casino project. After a recount, the measure passed by over 6,000 votes, with 51% supporting the casino project and 49% opposed to it.

Supporters for both last year’s casino proposal and the questions on this year’s ballot pointed to the likely economic gains that would come along with expanded gambling. Supporters say that not only will casinos create jobs, but they will keep local gamblers from traveling to nearby states to spend their gambling dollars.

Those opposed to the expansion point to negatives like problem gambling as consequences to adding new gambling options in Maine. They also point out that Maine is unlikely to become a gambling destination, thus limiting the potential income from out-of-state visitors.