A new national poll found more Americans oppose legalized sports betting than support it, despite the industry’s nationwide expansion across the since the Supreme Court struck down the federal ban on state-authorized wagering in 2018.
The findings came from a broader Overton Insights survey focused on political and public policy issues. The poll surveyed 1,377 registered voters between May 16 and May 20. Asked whether they support or oppose legalized sports betting in their state, 31% of respondents indicated support while 47% said they oppose it. Another 22% said they were unsure or had no opinion.
Among respondents in support, 16% said they strongly support legalization and 15% said they somewhat support it. Meanwhile, 15% said they somewhat oppose legalization and 32% strongly oppose it.
Sports betting support by demographic
The opposition to legalized betting crossed party lines, according to Overton Insights. Republicans came closest to supporting legalization, with 32% in support, 36% opposing it and 32% saying they were unsure.
“Sports betting has become one of the most debated issues at the state level over the past several years, with more and more states legalizing it since the 2018 Supreme Court ruling that opened the door,” Overton Insights Poll Director Mark Cunningham said in a statement. “Even with that rapid expansion, voters in our poll remain skeptical.”
Democrats and independents also registered more opposition than support, though Overton did not release detailed breakdowns of their responses.
Support varies by age group
The poll found significant differences among age groups.
Voters between ages 45 and 54 were the most supportive demographic, with 53% backing legalized sports betting. By comparison, just 24% of voters ages 30 to 44 said they support it.
Sports betting is legal in 39 states, with 30 allowing online wagering.
