Global Poker Parent Donates $30K to Alabama Governor Campaign

VGW Holdings, the parent company of Global Poker, has donated $30,000 to Sen. Tommy Tuberville’s campaign for Alabama governor. Tuberville is currently a US senator. The donation from the Australia-based sweepstakes casino operator comes after efforts in recent years to legalize gambling in the state have failed.

Alabama has limited gaming; it is one of only five states without a lottery. The Yellowhammer State only has three tribal casinos, all owned and operated by the Poarch Band of Creek Indians. Nova Southeastern University professor of law and gambling and sports law expert Bob Jarvis told AL.com, “Just because gambling is illegal in Alabama now does not mean that it will be illegal forever.”

The Republican primary is set for May 19. Tuberville has a double-digit lead over his nearest competitor. In a head-to-head battle against Democrat frontrunner, former US Sen. Doug Jones, Tuberville has almost a 20-point lead, according to some polls. Alabama voters haven’t elected a Democrat governor since 1998.