Ted Olson, the influential lawyer responsible for dismantling the federal ban on sports betting, has passed away at 84. His landmark victory in 2018 before the United States Supreme Court reshaped the landscape of legal sports gambling across the nation.
Olson, a partner at the prestigious law firm Gibson Dunn, was a titan in the legal field. Known for his brilliance and eloquence, Olson’s legal arguments led to the overturning of the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA), a 1992 law that prohibited most states from legalizing sports betting. His death was confirmed by Gibson Dunn, and the legal community has been quick to mourn the loss of one of its most esteemed figures.
A Monumental Legal Victory
Ted Olson’s victory in Murphy v. NCAA in 2018 stands as one of the defining moments in his career. The case challenged PASPA, which had limited the legality of sports betting to just four states — Nevada, Oregon, Delaware, and Montana. Olson, representing New Jersey, argued that the law violated the 10th Amendment by infringing on states’ rights to regulate their own affairs.
The Supreme Court’s decision to strike down PASPA opened the door for states across the country to legalize sports betting. It was a landmark moment not only in sports law but in the broader debate about the role of federal government versus states’ rights. In essence, Olson’s argument shifted the balance of power, allowing individual states to decide whether to permit sports betting within their borders. This monumental legal win was hailed by many as an important step toward the future of gambling law in America.
Ted Olson: A Legacy of Legal Prowess
Olson’s legal expertise and reputation extended far beyond sports betting. He served as solicitor general under President George W. Bush and argued numerous high-profile cases before the Supreme Court. His list of clients included some of the most powerful and influential entities in the U.S., but his passion for justice never wavered, regardless of the case.
Olson was known for his relentless dedication to his clients and his ability to craft persuasive, powerful arguments. His career included significant victories in constitutional law, civil rights, and national security issues.
His colleagues at Gibson Dunn remembered him not just as a colleague but as a mentor and friend. Barbara Becker, the firm’s managing partner, described Olson as “creative, principled, and fearless,” adding that he was “a trailblazing advocate who cared about all people.”
A Trailblazer for States’ Rights
Ted Olson’s success in the PASPA case wasn’t just a win for sports betting enthusiasts. It was also a significant victory for advocates of states’ rights. By overturning PASPA, Olson helped affirm that states, not the federal government, should have the autonomy to legislate on matters affecting their own populations.
Since the Murphy v. NCAA decision, over 30 states have legalized sports betting in some form, with billions of dollars in wagers being placed every year. Olson’s legal battle made it possible for states to control how sports betting operates, from regulating the industry to ensuring that betting revenue is properly taxed.
It’s also worth noting that Olson’s legal victory didn’t just benefit the states. It has had a positive economic impact, creating thousands of jobs and generating new tax revenue streams. Sports betting has transformed from a largely underground activity to a legitimate, regulated industry in states like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Michigan.
Remembering Ted Olson: A Champion of the Law
Ted Olson’s passing marks the end of an era in American legal history. His contributions to the legal profession, particularly in sports law and constitutional matters, will remain a lasting legacy. He may be best known for his victory against PASPA, but his broader work in the courts reshaped the legal landscape in ways that continue to affect millions of Americans.
At his law firm, colleagues remembered Olson as a legal giant whose influence stretched across multiple areas of law. He was admired for his intellect, his ability to engage with complex legal questions, and his deep respect for the rule of law. He was not only a brilliant advocate but a genuinely decent person who always believed in using the law to advance justice and fairness.
Though Olson’s career included many notable cases and accomplishments, the Murphy decision stands as a testament to his remarkable legal mind and unwavering dedication to his principles. In sports, business, and law, Olson’s impact will be felt for years to come.
