As voters prepare to select a new state senator for Texas Senate District 9, one candidate is receiving a flood of support from the casino industry.
Former Southlake Mayor John Huffman reported a $500,000 contribution from the Texas Sands PAC, the political arm of Las Vegas Sands, in the latest campaign finance report covering the period through September 25.
The casino lobby has also funded advertising through the Texas Defense PAC, a committee wholly funded by Sands.
With more than $9 million in cash on hand, nearly all from billionaire Miriam Adelson—owner of Las Vegas Sands and majority owner of the Dallas Mavericks—the casino giant has become a big spender in Texas politics. Major TV ad buys in the district’s television market suggest even more spending is expected before Election Day.
Huffman, however, insists his position on gambling has been consistent.
“From day one, I’ve been consistent in my belief that Texans should have the right to decide this issue for themselves,” Huffman told Texas Scorecard. “I support putting the question of expanded gaming on the ballot for voters to consider.”
