Guam Votes No on Slot Machines
Casino gambling continues to expand worldwide, as restrictive laws are changed and the benefits to governments and communities increase at rates higher than ever imagined. As many countries rush to join the gambling explosion, new areas have opened their doors to welcome gamblers and the wealth they bring. Pacific Rim countries and provinces are now entering the debate on legalizing slots and casinos... and Guam once again said no to the industry.
While other nearby regions, such as the Mariana Islands, establish casinos to try to acquire their share of the gambling pie, Guam voters rejected a proposal to bring slot machines to Guam Greyhound Track by an almost 2-to1 ratio. This was the second time in just over a year the voters prevented slots from being installed at the track.
Powerful foes, including the island's Catholic Archbishop, Anthony Apuron, and all three senatorial candidates, campaigned vigorously against Proposal A, which would allow slots to be installed at the dog track. Opposition was well-organized, and, although overall voting was light, a number of voters were turned out by anti-slots groups specifically to vote against gambling.
Track owner John Baldwin had been prone in last year's election to displaying $3 million in cash, making a point as to revenue Guam could expect from slots action. However, pro-slots forces did not campaign well, failing to produce any of their leading figures at public meetings to discuss the issues.
It seems Guam will remain one of the few spots determined to reject the economic surge casinos and slots have provided virtually everywhere they have been accepted. If one wants the thrill of gambling on Guam, there's always bingo at the Church. Isn't there, Archbishop?
