A Close Call: Experts Doubt Sports Betting Recount in Missouri
Missouri’s sports betting vote has reached a tipping point, with the final ballots counted and the outcome almost too close to call. The election results show that sports betting was narrowly legalized, but with less than a 1% margin, the possibility of a recount is very much alive.
As of November 8, 2024, Missouri’s Secretary of State reported that 2,932,246 residents participated in the vote. Of those, 1,468,306 supported the legalization of sports betting through Amendment 2, while 1,463,940 opposed it. That gives the “yes” vote a lead of just 4,366 votes—a margin that’s small enough to potentially trigger a recount under Missouri law. According to the state’s regulations, any outcome with a margin of 0.5% or less is eligible for a recount.
However, election experts are not convinced that a recount will actually take place. Despite the razor-thin margin, many are pointing to the difficulty in overturning such a result.
The Numbers Behind the Vote
While 4,000 votes might seem like a lot, it’s important to understand just how close this election really was. In Missouri, a state with a history of closely contested votes, this latest decision has been no different. With nearly 3 million ballots cast, the fact that the numbers are so close is both remarkable and troubling for those hoping for a swift resolution.
Here’s a breakdown of the results:
- Yes Votes: 1,468,306 (50.1%)
- No Votes: 1,463,940 (49.9%)
- Margin: 4,366 votes
Even though this margin falls well within the 0.5% recount threshold, the election experts point out that the recount process itself is far from straightforward.
Why the Recount Likely Won’t Happen
Some may be wondering how, after such a close vote, a recount might still be avoided. Experts are quick to point out that recounts aren’t automatic just because a result meets the threshold. Instead, the party requesting the recount must prove that it would significantly alter the outcome.
Missouri’s system doesn’t automatically initiate a recount when the margin is under 0.5%. Instead, the request for a recount must come from an interested party. That means unless one of the sides steps forward with significant concerns or evidence suggesting an error, the results will likely stand.
Additionally, recounts can be costly and time-consuming. Some critics argue that a recount in this case would be unlikely to change the outcome, given the narrow gap and the generally reliable nature of Missouri’s voting system.
Key Factors to Consider:
- Voter Confidence: With the numbers showing a clear, though small, lead, the public confidence in the results could make a recount less likely.
- Cost of Recounting: Recounts can be expensive, and Missouri lawmakers may view the costs as unjustifiable for such a small margin.
- Time Frame: Recounts, if requested, can take weeks. The delay could be frustrating to those eager to see sports betting launched in the state.
The Implications of the Vote
If the results hold, Missouri will join a growing list of states to have legalized sports betting. Amendment 2 specifically allows the Missouri Gaming Commission to regulate the industry, including licensing both in-person and online sports betting operations. This means that, within months, Missourians may be able to legally place bets on their favorite teams—online or at local sports betting districts.
The addition of sports betting could also lead to a boost in Missouri’s economy. States that have legalized sports betting have reported substantial tax revenues, with much of that revenue going to state education and infrastructure programs. Missouri could expect similar benefits, providing a financial windfall for public services.
It’s worth noting that Missouri’s sports betting rules will be stricter than those in some states. Only those physically located in Missouri, and who are 21 or older, will be able to participate. While some states have faced challenges with regulating online sports betting, Missouri’s more controlled approach could reduce the potential for complications.
What Happens Next?
As Missouri waits to see if a recount is requested, the focus shifts to how the state will move forward with the legalization process. While the outcome of the election is still fresh, both supporters and opponents of Amendment 2 are bracing for what comes next. If the results hold, the state will likely see new legislation designed to implement sports betting laws and begin issuing licenses to operators.
There’s also the looming question of how much impact sports betting will have on the state’s economy and its residents. Will Missouri’s betting industry boom like those of New Jersey or Pennsylvania? Or will the novelty wear off quickly, and Missouri will be left wondering what could have been?
Missouri’s sports betting saga isn’t over yet. Though experts doubt a recount will change the outcome, it’s a waiting game for now. What is clear is that the state’s residents, lawmakers, and potential operators are all waiting with bated breath to see what will happen next.
