California’s Proposition 27 campaign this week dropped an ad that clearly defines what it stands for – supporting an answer to homelessness and “disadvantaged tribes.” But the tone of the ad makes it clear that the campaign is ramping up efforts to not just get its initiative passed, but to keep Proposition 26 from getting votes. Though the ad does not clearly suggest a “no” vote on Proposition 26, it does use the word “no” in relation to the tribal-backed proposal throughout the 30-second spot.
Two legal sports betting initiatives will be on the November ballot in California. Voters can vote for both. But in the world of wagering, the two are significantly different. Proposition 26, backed by the bulk of California’s tribes, would allow for in-person wagering only at tribal casinos and four horse racetracks. It would also allow for certain ball-and-dice games and change the way gaming lawsuits are handled. Proposition 27 would legalize statewide mobile gaming and require that platforms be tethered to tribal casinos. The two are considered complementary, and each needs 50% “yes” votes to pass.
When seven commercial companies – 'Bally's,'BetMGM,'DraftKings, Fanatics,'FanDuel, PENN Entertainment/Barstool Sportsbook, and'WynnBET'- started on the road to legal sports betting in California, they did so by tying their hopes key causes in California: homelessness and mental health.'Called the “California Solutions to Homelessness and Mental Health Act,” the initiative didn’t even mention wagering in its title when it was filed. The campaign said it did significant research showing these are two key issues for voters. But when the campaign got approval for the ballot and began dropping ads, the focus was more on tribes than homelessness and mental health issues.
Shifting focus
The latest ad marries those issues while also lashing out Proposition 26.