On September 28, 2025, Donald Trump Jr., the son of the current US President, publicly expressed his support for the legalization of sports betting in Georgia and Alabama. This response came via a social media post on X, formerly known as Twitter. Trump Jr. described it as “crazy” that residents in these states couldn’t place wagers on major football matches involving their top programs. This statement highlights the ongoing debate about sports betting in regions where it remains illegal, despite its widespread legalization in the rest of the SEC region.
Georgia and Alabama are among approximately twelve states that have yet to authorize either online or retail sports betting. Specifically, Alabama has not even established a state lottery, continuously facing legislative roadblocks. Trump Jr. suggested that this situation requires immediate change, though he did not clarify whether he would actively campaign for this reform. His remarks come as he becomes increasingly involved in prediction markets, a sector that intersects with his interests in politics and venture capital.
The absence of legal sports betting options in these states pushes many residents toward unregulated online sportsbooks. This situation leaves Georgia and Alabama trailing behind other SEC states where sports betting has become an emerging market. The potential revenue from legalized betting remains untapped, despite its promise to boost state finances significantly.
Georgia, however, appears to be edging closer to legalizing sports betting. Advocates are optimistic that 2026 might be the year of substantial change, despite numerous unsuccessful attempts in the past. A major hurdle has been the necessity for constitutional amendments, which require voter approval, a process historically met with resistance. Nevertheless, lawmakers established the House Study Committee on Gaming earlier this year to delve deeper into the possibilities of expanded gambling.
The economic potential of legalized sports betting has attracted attention from various stakeholders. The PGA Tour, for instance, has publicly supported the initiative, recognizing the potential benefits for sports and community engagement. Additionally, prominent gambling companies have shown interest in Georgia. Wynn Resorts recently indicated that Georgia represents an ideal location for a high-end casino resort, reflecting the state’s untapped potential.
The conversation around sports betting is not limited to gambling companies and sports organizations. Prediction markets, such as those operated by companies like Kalshi, provide an alternative to traditional sports betting. These markets offer contracts on sports outcomes and operate legally across all 50 states. Trump Jr. is involved with Kalshi, serving on its advisory board, which further underscores his interest in prediction markets as a viable business venture.
While Trump Jr.’s endorsement is significant, it also raises questions about his future role in the advocacy for sports betting reform. His involvement with prediction markets and his position on the advisory board of Polymarket, a prediction markets provider, signals his broader interest in the industry. This involvement is timely, given the substantial investment from 1789 Capital into Polymarket, highlighting the growing attention and resources directed toward prediction markets.
Despite the momentum toward legalization, there remains opposition rooted in concerns over gambling addiction and its societal impacts. Critics argue that without proper regulatory frameworks, the introduction of sports betting could lead to increased gambling-related problems. They urge for comprehensive measures to protect the vulnerable before moving forward with legalization.
On the other hand, proponents stress the economic benefits that states like Georgia and Alabama could reap from regulated sports betting. The potential tax revenue is a compelling argument at a time when states are exploring new revenue streams to fund public services. Legalization could also lead to job creation in the gambling sector, further bolstering local economies.
In conclusion, the debate over legalizing sports betting in Georgia and Alabama is multi-faceted, involving economic, social, and political considerations. Trump Jr.’s recent comments have undoubtedly brought renewed attention to the issue, though the path to legalization remains fraught with challenges. As both states contemplate this potential shift, stakeholders from various sectors continue to weigh in, each with their perspectives on the future of gambling in the region. The dialogue around sports betting legalization is likely to intensify as more states begin to witness the economic benefits that regulated gambling can offer, pushing Georgia and Alabama closer to making a decisive change in their gambling laws.
David Garato is a luminary in gaming journalism, renowned for peeling back the curtain on the gaming world with his witty and insightful commentary. A decade into weaving stories from the pixelated edges of indie games to the expansive universes of AAA titles, David’s work is a thrilling blend of analysis and adventure. When not writing, he’s live-streaming, sharing his gaming exploits with an engaged and growing audience. David doesn’t just write about games; he lives them, making him a trusted guide in the gaming community.
