Poll Shows Rising Support for North New Jersey Casino Expansion

Plans to expand casino gambling beyond Atlantic City are back on the table, and recent data suggest that the public may support a move. New polling by Global Strategy Group and commissioned by Meadowlands operator Jeff Gural shows that a clear majority of likely voters would now back a casino at the Meadowlands Racetrack. A similar project at Monmouth Park Racetrack also received similar support. 

Supporters Point to Economic Benefits

According to the poll, support for casino expansion extends across political parties and age groups. This data marks a notable shift from the 2016 referendum that failed decisively, with more than three-quarters of voters rejecting the expansion. Critics at that time argued that allowing casinos outside of Atlantic City could damage the existing gaming market.

According to a recent New Jersey Globe report, supporters now argue that a north New Jersey casino at the Meadowlands would attract customers who prefer to cross the Hudson River and wager in New York rather than travel for hours to Atlantic City. Roughly six in ten respondents now support a Meadowlands casino, believing that the extra revenue would help support public programs.

Voters recognize the benefits casinos bring to the state. The revenue casinos bring to the state is beneficial, especially with the financial challenges voters recognize the state faces.

Global Strategy Group

Legislative efforts are already underway. State senators Paul Sarlo and Vin Gopal have introduced a proposal to amend the state constitution and allow another referendum. To reach the ballot in 2026, the measure would need strong backing by lawmakers, either a supermajority in a single session or approval across two consecutive terms.

Casino Expansion Faces an Uphill Battle

Despite the polling, opposition in southern New Jersey remains substantial. Many officials believe casino expansion would siphon customers from Atlantic City. According to local leaders, the state’s gaming industry is still recovering from pandemic-era setbacks and cannot afford another setback. Two senators have already signaled they will fight any attempt to break the city’s longstanding monopoly.

Market saturation remains another concern. Adding more casinos in a relatively small state could just redistribute existing revenues rather than create meaningful growth, leaving existing operators at a disadvantage. To address these concerns, the current proposal would divert at least 10% of tax revenue from any new northern casinos to support Atlantic City.

The renewed push aims to improve the state’s economy without inflaming internal tensions. Lawmakers must now tread carefully or risk disrupting the state’s gambling industry. Still, the path forward is far from clear, as any new measure must receive the approval of lawmakers and New Jersey voters.