Washington – Voters across the political spectrum view casino gaming more favorably than ever before, according to a new nationwide poll conducted by respected political pollsters Mark Mellman and Glen Bolger, and the vast majority recognizes that casino gaming creates jobs, strengthens local businesses and benefits communities. The new survey also squashes stereotypes of the typical casinovisitor.

INFOGRAPHIC: Who is the typical casino visitor? You might be surprised

The timely findings come as many state policymakers begin to re-examine punitive gaming taxes, inefficient regulations and other threats to casinos in an increasingly competitive environment. The results also come at the same time the American Gaming Association is releasing the latest nationwide gross gaming revenues, whichincreased one percent from $37.34 billion in 2012 to $37.78 billion in 2013.

“Voters recognize that casinos are a mainstream form of entertainment and an economic driver that supports jobs and boosts growth in communities across the nation,” said Geoff Freeman, president and CEO of the American Gaming Association.  “Casino visitors are a portrait of the American electorate, and voters are giving policymakers permission to treat casinos like any other business. The AGA will aggressively pave the way for policies that reflect voters’ favorable view of gaming, protects jobs and promotes innovation.”

The national telephone survey was conducted by Democratic pollster Mark Mellman, CEO of the Mellman Group, and Republican pollster Glen Bolger, founder and partner of Public Opinion Strategies. Key findings include:

• By a 2-1 margin, American voters view casino gaming favorably;
• More than 70 percent of voters recognize that casinos create jobs;
• Nearly 60 percent of voters know that casinos boost local economies;  
• A majority says casinos shouldn’t pay more taxes than other businesses.

“Across partisan, ideological and geographic divisions, the vast majority agree that gaming is acceptable,” said Mellman. “Voters overwhelmingly believe casinos have a positive effect on local communities.Nearly two-thirds of casino visitors leave the property to patronize neighboring local small businesses and other attractions.”

Who is the typical casino visitor?

You might be surprised. Here’s snapshot:

• Homeowners: Nearly two-in-three casino visitors own a home;
• Younger: Most are 21-59—target audiences businesses are trying to reach;
• Middle class: A plurality earns $60-$99k/year and 70% say they’re middle class;
• College graduates: Nearly half – 16% more than national rate—holds a bachelor’s degree;
• Religious: Two-thirds of casino visitors attend church; 25% are evangelical or born again Christians.

“Casino visitors aren’t who some think they are,” said Bolger. “Most casino visitors are between the ages of 21 and 59, and a plurality earns $60-99k a year. They’re also well educated, churchgoing voters who volunteer and contribute to their communities. And when they gamble, nearly three-quarters of visitors set a budget before they walk in the door.”

The executive summary, national survey and the survey methodology are available online at www.gettoknowgaming.org. The national survey kicks off the AGA’s “Get to Know Gaming” campaign – an aggressive effort to promote the value of the gaming industry, combat outdated stereotypes and pave the way for gaming’s next generation.