Alabama Governor Betting on Sports Despite Anti-Gambling Stance

Governor Bob Riley of Alabama abhors gambling and wants to eradicate it in his state, except when it comes to him betting on sports.

Governor Bob Riley of Alabama wants a zero tolerance policy against all forms of gambling in his state. But such a position didn't prevent him from hypocritically accepting a bet on a sports result with Florida Governor Charlie Crist.

The two governors agreed to wager on the results of today's SEC Championship Game, the highly anticipated matchup in football between the Florida Gators and the Alabama Crimson Tide. Riley risked a full rack of barbecue ribs from Dreamland Bar-B-Que, while Crist put up a box of Florida oranges.

Riley may defend his betting with Crist as a simple friendly wager, but the residents of his state have been denied any friendly wagering of their own, including the bingo machines which Riley is pushing to drive out of the state. Further, a public demonstration of gambling on sports can hardly be the role model for children fitting Riley's stated position.

Alabama won the game in a surprisingly easy fashion, leaving Riley to collect his winnings. Someone on the governor's staff needs to make a note for Riley to be sure to list the value of those oranges on his income tax this year, as the law requires.

Meanwhile, Riley openly gambles while ferociously advocating none of his constituents be allowed the same privilege. On the other hand, no tribal casinos contributing to Riley's campaigns would likely be upset by betting on oranges, so he may feel he's sticking to whatever backroom deals he's made.