From Houstonchronicle · · 1m
Dan Patrick loss opens THC debate
Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick's defeat removes marijuana legalization barrier but gambling debate remains.
In brief
Texas Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick's defeat removes marijuana legalization barrier but gambling debate remains. Dan Patrick's loss in Texas lieutenant governor race removes a major hurdle for legalizing marijuana but does not change the debate on expanding legalized gambling. Originally reported by Houstonchronicle.
Dan Patrick's election loss
Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick lost the Texas lieutenant governor race to Democrat Vikki Goodwin.
Patrick blocked THC legalization
Patrick led efforts to ban THC products through Senate legislation that was later vetoed by Governor Greg Abbott.
Goodwin supports marijuana legalization
Democratic Lt. Gov.-elect Vikki Goodwin campaigned to legalize marijuana with tax revenue funding health insurance for 5 million uninsured Texans.
Patrick opposed gambling expansion
Patrick was a staunch opponent of gambling including Texas Lottery operations and pro-gaming legislation.
Gambling debate unchanged
Anti-gambling lobbyist Rob Kohler said Patrick's exit won't change dynamics on legal casinos or sports betting.
Next gambling battle
The next battle will be over prediction markets that allow legal wagers on election outcomes and sporting events.
The main idea
Dan Patrick's loss in Texas lieutenant governor race removes a major hurdle for legalizing marijuana but does not change the debate on expanding legalized gambling.
