Goodwin win removes Patrick from Texas gambling debate, but hurdles remain
Regulation1 min read
In brief
- Vikki Goodwin reportedly defeated Texas Lieutenant Governor Dan Patrick, who had kept gambling bills off the Senate floor.
- Legalisation still needs a constitutional amendment, two-thirds Senate support and a statewide vote.
On Tuesday, as part of a large Democratic wave, Vikki Goodwin defeated Dan Patrick. Patrick was a staunch opponent of Texas gambling expansion and had killed multiple sports betting efforts in recent years.
The lieutenant governor presides over the Texas Senate and decides which bills reach the floor. Legalisation would still need a constitutional amendment backed by two-thirds of the Senate, where Republicans hold a 19-seat majority. A statewide vote would also be required. Lawmakers return to Austin for the 2027 regular session.
Josh Kirschner, a partner at Holland & Knight, said the official most responsible for keeping gambling off the floor for debate will be leaving office. He called the shift "a sea change". Mark Cuban, a Texas billionaire, told SBC Americas on Wednesday that the outcome "certainly changes the calculus". He claimed no knowledge of what may or may not happen.