Gaming Interests Amp Up Lobbying Push in Washington
30 September 2026
The American Gaming Association has spent $1.39 million on lobbying so far in 2026, pacing ahead of its 2025 expenditures. It's part of a broader surge in Washington influence efforts as the online gaming industry grows and politicians look for new revenue sources.
The gaming industry's political spending has seen a steady ascent over the past two decades, even as overall lobbying costs have declined in recent years. In 2026, spending by casino, sports betting, and gaming lobbies has intensified.
The American Gaming Association, a major industry group, has been particularly active. In a year when states are facing budget pressures, the gaming association is ramping up its presence in Washington to push for expanded online markets and to ward off policy changes that could hobble the industry.
The lobbying push comes as states and the federal government weigh the risks and rewards of legalizing and regulating online gaming. Industry groups point to potential tax revenue while opponents raise concerns about problem gambling and market oversight.
'The online gaming sector has long been a priority for the association,' explained the group's head of government relations. 'As the industry grows, it's vital that we're present in Washington to shape these crucial policy decisions.'
Online gaming lobbying is part of a long tradition of political engagement by gambling interests. In the 1990s, the emerging industry made its first forays in Washington. Since then, gaming companies have steadily increased their campaign contributions and lobbying to shape policy and regulation.
Between 2019 and 2022 alone, the gambling industry contributed $287.6 million to state and federal politicians. And that doesn't include the millions more spent directly on lobbying.
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Sports betting companies FanDuel and DraftKings offer a more recent example. Since 2018, they've donated over $2.6 million directly to state politicians and spent another $114 million on lobbying and legalization efforts.
The stakes for gaming lobbyists are high. A favorable policy decision can open up lucrative new markets. The Entertainment Software Association, for instance, spent nearly $5.5 million on lobbying to defend video game industry interests. The association's Washington presence helped shape policies that benefited the sector.
For critics, gaming industry lobbying raises red flags. The substantial lobbying expenditures and political donations, they argue, demonstrate the industry's influence and the need for strong oversight. Clem Davis, a consumer advocate, notes, 'The amount of money gaming interests are spending shows this isn't a one-sided fight. Regulation and consumer protections need to keep pace with the industry's expansion.'
Beyond gambling interests, gaming companies wield considerable political resources. The Entertainment Software Association directly lobbies on legislation, while companies like FanDuel and DraftKings invest millions in sponsorships and marketing. Legal challenges from gaming companies have also blocked certain political ads.
The significant sums now flowing into online gaming lobbying reflect a pattern of political engagement that has characterized the gaming sector for years. But this latest spending surge also highlights the industry's evolving priorities as lawmakers consider gaming expansion proposals and seek new revenue streams.
Increased lobbying efforts represent how the gaming sector responds to changes and prepares for future opportunities. What the recent lobbyist activity and political contributions make clear is this: Online gaming won't just be part of the American policy discussion—it will dominate it.