Top Gambling News Stories for Tuesday August 18, 2026

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Politics

Bet on Who Will Be Named U.S. President Donald Trump's Next Press Secretary

Tuesday August 18, 2026 (8:44 am EDT)

Karoline Leavitt, the youngest White House press secretary in history, announced her departure from the role effective at the end of August, citing her desire to spend more time with her two young children, according to CNN. No successor has been named, with her exit coming less than three months before the 2026 midterm elections.  Trump is weighing relying again on a rotating cast of Cabinet officials to handle press briefings for an indefinite period following, according to reports. 

Next White House Press Secretary

Alina Habba 3/1

Anna Kelly 4/1

Jenn Pellegrino 6/1

Roma Haravi 7/1

Steven Cheung 10/1

Emerald Robinson 10/1

Chanel Rion 10/1

Scott Jennings 16/1

Natalie Harp 16/1

Jason Miller 16/1

Scottie Nell Hughes 22/1

Lara Trump 33/1

Kari Lake 33/1

Spencer Pratt 50/1

Erika Kirk 66/1

Tucker Carlson 100/1

Sweepstakes Casinos (Virginia)

Virginia Eyes Sweepstakes Casino Ban in 2027 Legislative Session

Tuesday August 18, 2026 (8:44 am EDT)

Virginia's 2027 legislative session has been updated to include Senate Bill 579, which would stop the operation and promotion of online sweepstakes casinos in the state.  Senator Bryce E. Reeves introduced the bill earlier in 2026.  Sweepstakes casinos do have the remainder of this year.   Not every proposed sweepstakes casino ban has passed in state legislatures (i.e. Mississippi lawmakers have tried and failed).  And time is not on the side of lawmakers when it comes to Virginia's 2027 legislative session.  It runs from January 13 through February 27 with an extension period possible for 30 days. 

Casino News (Chicago)

Debt-Laden Bally’s Future in ‘Substantial Doubt’ Amid Video Gambling Dispute Over Chicago Casino

Tuesday August 18, 2026 (8:44 am EDT)

While the company is on the hook for about $400 million in costs over the next two years to complete its permanent complex at 777 W. Chicago Ave., Bally’s still isn’t breaking even at its temporary casino at the historic Medinah Temple.  (read more from the Chicago Sun Times)

Politics (Florida)

Florida Primaries Betting Odds - Races Surprisingly Competitive

Tuesday August 18, 2026 (8:44 am EDT)

Today is the big day in Florida as voters head to the polls for the Democrat and Republican primaries.  Only party-affiliated residents can vote in their respective primaries (not open).  Unaffiliated (Independent) registered voters can only participate if they switch to one of the two party designations prior to voting.  You can find all the latest odds here with some of these races competitive. 

Top Trending

Little League World Series Betting Odds 2026

Tuesday August 18, 2026 (8:44 am EDT)

Our coverage of this year's Little League World Series newly released betting odds by BetOnline was  the most popular in terms of overall audience intent and engagement.  The opening odds appear below as well. 

More News Here

• Chris Costigan, Gambling911.com Publisher