Jockey Backs Governor For Kentucky Gambling Expansion

Governor Beshear has been fighting to expand gambling laws to include video gaming machines at Kentucky's Race Track. Recent addition to his personal army is Kentucky Derby and Preakness Stakes winner Calvin Borel. Borel's victories and popularity is helping to sway dissident thought toward the acceptance of the video game terminals.

Some argue that if Kentucky's race tracks do not include a gambling expansion, they may lose so much business that they have to close shop and relocate. The biggest fear stemming from this line of thought is that Kentucky has a great deal of jobs relying on these race tracks and a decline in business could put many people out of work, particularly those who work with the horses. The weakened economy of the nation has made it difficult for many to find new jobs, and this blow could be too harsh for the state to bear.

Governor Beshear has remained steadfast on the trail toward expanding legal gambling expansion. Video game terminals could easily provide the race tracks with the much needed income to stay afloat. Kentucky has heavy emphasis on the Equine community, and the shutting down of the state's racetracks is suspected to damage the fragile economy of the state.

With backing from Calvin Borel and the Kentucky Equine Education Project, legislation might be convinced to expand gambling options. The next session will be held in the middle of June, with the state's budget being the key issue. Any gambling talks will be directly tied into the budget.