Online Poker Victory Predicted

The panelists of keynote discussion at the G2E on Wednesday discussed the outlook of internet gambling in the United States. The panel included former Senator Alfonse D'Amato, chairman of the Poker Player's Alliance; J. Terrence Lanni, chairman and CEO of MGM MIRAGE; Gary Loveman, chairman, CEO and president of Harrah's Entertainment, Inc.; and Andre Wilsenach, CEO of the Alderney Gambling Control Commission.

When asked about over turning the present ban of online poker, D"Amato said, "We will win this battle." He said he expects the legalization of online poker in the United States within 18 months. The panel agreed. They said pending sanctions by the World Trade Organization due to current U.S. policy on Internet gambling could be the major driver for legalization because non-gaming corporations likely to be affected by the sanctions could put pressure on Congress to make a change.

The panelists said they expect online poker to be legalized prior to other online casino-style games. There was consensus among the panelists that it is possible to successfully regulate Internet gambling to prevent underage gambling and ensure player protection.

After the discussion I had a minute to briefly speak with D'Amato and he assured me that there was reason for optimism but urged everyone who is interested in getting online poker legal to contact their Senators and Representatives and ask them to support proposed legislation that would legalize online poker such as the Barney Frank bill.