- A new poll from Overton Insights found that 47% of people from a 1,377 sample size opposed sports betting, while just 31% supported it.
- 53% of voters between the ages of 45-54 were in support of sports betting, the largest share of any demographic.
LAS VEGAS – While sports betting has become more commonplace in society with widespread legalization in many states, it is still a controversial topic for the average person according to a new poll.
Overton Insights conducted a poll to determine the general population’s stance on sports betting between May 16th and May 20th. Of the 1,377 participants, the results of the poll showed that:
- 16% strongly support sports betting
- 15% somewhat support sports betting
- 15% somewhat oppose sports betting
- 32% strongly oppose sports betting
- 22% unsure / no opinion
That marks 47% of the poll opposing legal sports betting sites, while just 31% are in favor with the other 22% undecided.
According to the poll, the majority of Democrats, Republicans, and independents opposed sports betting, Republicans having the highest support rate at 32%.
Results varied by age, showing some surprising results. 53% of voters between the age 45-54 were in favor of sports betting, the strongest demographic measured. Only 24% of voters between the age 30-44 showed support for sports betting.
Why Are So Many Opposed To Sports Betting?
There are a few answers. Firstly, it can lead to problem gambling, which has been troubling for many in the country. According to the National Council on Problem Gambling, 24% of fantasy sports bettors and 17% of traditional sports bettors engage in what are considered “problematic behaviors.”
15% of players between the ages of 18-34 reported such behavior, while just 2% of the 55+ players did, which lines up with the polling numbers from Overton Insights.
Another concern around sports betting is the integrity of the game. There have been multiple scandals across sports of players engaging in sports betting or purposely missing certain statistical thresholds in order for others to profit.
There is also concern that as big as sports betting has become, it has become a vested interest of leagues and sportsbooks alike to profit from games as much as possible, though there is no credible evidence to prove that this kind of activity is currently happening.
Lastly, but just as impactful, is the mainstream push that sports betting has got from the media. Constant commercials, advertisements, promotions, and even segments on pre-game shows are unavoidable, which can be a turn off for those uninterested in wagering.
