A Letter to Governor Walker from Iowans Against Kenosha Casino

Some Iowans sent a message to Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker - telling him the proposed casino in Kenosha is not wanted or needed. 

Citizens Against Gambling Expansion supporter and Consumer Credit of Des Moines President, Tom Coates, signed a letter which accompanied a petition with 600 signatures signed by Iowans that are opposed to gambling expansion. 

Similar letters were also sent to Governor Chris Christie, Governor Bobby Jindal, Governor Jeb Bush, Governor Rick Perry and Congressman Paul Ryan - leaders across the country who - along with Walker - are considering a presidential run in 2016.

In his letter, Coates states his concerns about expanded gambling in Iowa:
“With the arrival of casinos in Iowa, the percentage of addicted or pathological gamblers rose from 1.7% of the population to 5.4%.  Recent legislation allows a pathological gambler to unban themselves from gambling after five years. The effects of creating pathological gamblers in our midst show a wide range of social pathologies playing out. Among these pathologies are: 22% divorce due to gambling, 49% steal to feed the habit, 40% lose their jobs, 63% contemplate suicide and 18% attempt suicide. Highest suicide rate for any addiction as heroin is next closest with 9%.” Coats go on to say “As you are contemplating a presidential bid, I sincerely hope you will consider a “No Expanded Gaming” policy.” 

Please support our efforts and join us in telling these potential presidential candidates that you are opposed to expanding gambling.

Click here to read the complete copy of the letter from Coates to Walker.