Internet Gambling: Watch Out For Jon Kyl

A win by Republican Senator Mitch McConnell in Kentucky might not be so bad for the online gambling sector.  That tightly contested race was nearly won by his democratic challenger in a state that was the first to go Republican John McCain's way Tuesday night. 

McConnell was the guy who got the Unlawful Internet Gaming Enforcement Act carve out for horse betting.  Nearly all other forms of Internet gambling were made illegal (at least from an operational aspect) under the UIGEA.  That legislation was co-authored by Arizona Republican Senator Jon Kyl.

"(He is) a pragmatic politician," one industry analyst, who wished not to be named, told Gambling911.com.  "Maybe someone the industry could deal with.  And, certainly, better than the alternative...Jon Kyl."

Politico reported on Wednesday following Election Day that "If [Senate Minority Leader Mitch] McConnell (R-KY) takes on the role as dealmaker, he may begin to see some serious challenges from conservatives like Jon Kyl (Ariz.), the Republican whip, and back benchers like DeMint and Tom Coburn of Oklahoma."

"Fewer Republicans will be comfortable trusting McConnell to lead the effort to rebrand the Republican party and hold the line against a liberal onslaught," said one Senate GOP aide. "Plus, if the Democrats achieve a de facto filibuster proof margin his role in keeping Republicans together will be far less relevant. In that scenario, though, leaders like Jon Kyl and Jim DeMint will play a much more prominent role in the party."

McConnell could not be reached for comment when Gambling911.com attempted to contact him last week.

Christopher Costigan, Gambling911.com Publisher