Chicago Mayor Seemingly Supports the Idea of Gambling Machines in O’Hare Airport

Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson’s office is reportedly considering installing slot machines at O’Hare and Midway International Airports. This is an unexpected proposal coming as part of a broader effort to address a $1.15 billion budget deficit, with gambling reforms among the potential revenue-generating measures.

Chicago Mayor’s Office Goes Out With New Stance

Firstly, we should mention the Rebuild Illinois Act of 2019, signed by Governor JB Pritzker (D), which approved the development of six new land-based casinos. Five of them were approved for the Chicago suburbs, and one in the downtown area. Bally’s was selected as the city’s casino partner and is currently building a $2 billion resort in River West.

However, the legislation also permits slot machines at Chicago’s two major airports, provided the machines are placed beyond TSA security checkpoints. While former Mayor Lori Lightfoot chose not to pursue this option, Mayor Johnson may decide otherwise.

If the idea goes through, Chicago would become the third city in the US, following Las Vegas and Reno, to house slot machines in its main airport. Slot machines at the Las Vegas airport are often considered some of the tightest in Southern Nevada. They target bored or tired travelers and eager visitors who want to place a bet as soon as they arrive. 

For over four decades, casino owner Michael Gaughan has held the exclusive license to operate slot machines at Harry Reid International Airport. His company, Michael Gaughan Slots, currently manages more than 1,000 machines throughout the airport terminals. Roughly 86.5% of the revenue generated from airport slot machines is directed to Clark County to help fund operations at the county-owned airport.

The Idea Already has Big Support from Some

Many aldermen were pleased to hear the news that Chicago’s airports may have slot machines. Alderman Gilbert Villegas (36th) stated that financial projections indicate the city could earn up to $40 million annually from airport slot machines. He described the opportunity as a clear and straightforward decision, noting that the General Assembly had already provided the necessary authority. Villegas criticized both the previous and current administrations for failing to act on it.

When asked whether having slot machines among the first things travelers see might negatively affect Chicago’s image, Villegas firmly disagreed. He explained that the machines would offer passengers a way to pass the time while waiting for flights, dealing with delays, or being rerouted. According to Villegas, this would not only provide entertainment for adults but also allow the city to generate revenue from visitors and give Bally’s a platform to promote its brand.