The race to legalize sports betting in California has become one of the most expensive in the history of the United States as two ballot measures have already drawn in over $500 million in funding ahead of the November election season.
Propositions 26 and 27 will appear on the November ballot and both would see some form of sports betting legalized in the state if approved by the electorate.
According to the California Secretary of State’s Office, propositions on the ballot typically raise less than $10 million ahead of the election. This funding is used by supporters to build awareness of the proposition and highlight its benefits to the electorate. Funding is also raised by opponents of the measure.
Proposition 26
Proposition 26 is backed by the state’s Native American tribes. It would see sports betting legalized but only at retail sportsbooks. These would be located in tribal casinos or at race tracks.
| Total Number of Contributions | 125 |
| Contributions For | $109.5 million (50 contributions) |
| Contributions Against | $41.9 million (75 contributions) |
| Total Value of Contributions | $151,478,519 |
Largest donors
- Rincon Band of Luiseno Indians
- Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians
- Pechanga Band of Luiseno Indians
- Sycuan Band of the Kumeyaay Nation
- Barona Band of Mission Indians
- Yocha Dehe Wintun Nation
- San Manuel Band of Mission Indians
Proposition 27
Proposition 27 is backed by mobile sports betting operators as it would allow Californians to place bets from any location in the state using a mobile device.
| Total Number of Contributions | 116 |
| Contributions For | $169.2 million (23 contributions) |
| Contributions Against | $200.7 million (93 contributions) |
| Total Value of Contributions | $369,931,682 |
Largest donors
- FanDuel
- BetMGM
- DraftKings
Earlier this year, the California Republican Party (CAGOP) revealed that it would oppose both propositions for sports betting. The Democratic Party also stated that it would oppose proposition 27 but would remain neutral on the matter of retail sports betting at tribal casinos and horse race tracks.
Ciaran has been working within the Gambling Industry as a deep analyst since 2019. His deep knowledge and understanding of all the gambling regulations, and processes makes him a true asset, and an always valuable point of view for Gambling Industry News, allowing us to cover every topics from a brand new perspective.