A second Donald Trump presidency could shake up the gambling industry in ways that aren’t entirely clear yet—but insiders are already bracing for challenges. From labor shortages to supply chain disruptions, casino operators and other gaming stakeholders may face a bumpy ride depending on how policy shifts unfold.
Workforce Shortages Could Hit Casinos Hard
Hiring has already been a struggle in many industries, and casinos are no exception. If Trump’s policies tighten immigration rules or place restrictions on work visas, the labor supply for gambling establishments could shrink even further.
Many casinos rely heavily on immigrant workers for positions ranging from housekeeping to customer service. If those workers become harder to hire, the industry might have to increase wages, which could cut into profits.
Some executives worry about a domino effect. Fewer workers mean longer wait times for customers, potential declines in service quality, and ultimately, a hit to revenue. No business wants to be in that position.
Energy Costs Could Become an Issue
Casinos don’t just use a lot of electricity—they rely on it. The flashing lights, high-tech slot machines, air conditioning, and 24/7 operations mean energy bills are already steep. If Trump rolls back environmental regulations, fossil fuel prices could fluctuate, impacting electricity rates.
There’s also the question of energy reliability. If policies reduce investment in infrastructure or alternative energy sources, some regions could see more frequent outages or price volatility. That’s a major concern for casinos that depend on a consistent power supply to keep operations running smoothly.
Supply Chain Disruptions Could Delay Gaming Tech
Casinos are filled with high-tech gaming machines, security systems, and digital infrastructure. If trade policies shift—especially those involving tariffs on China—gaming equipment suppliers could see delays and price increases.
- Slot machines, poker tables, and even chips often come from international suppliers. Any disruption in those supply chains could mean casinos struggle to get the products they need.
- Cybersecurity is another concern. Many gaming platforms depend on foreign-made chips and software. If certain countries face new trade restrictions, companies may have to find alternative suppliers, which could slow innovation.
Some executives are already making contingency plans. They don’t want to be caught off guard if policy changes make sourcing technology more expensive or difficult.
Gambling Industry Adopts a Wait-and-See Approach
For now, industry officials aren’t hitting the panic button—but they’re also not dismissing potential risks.
Some lobbyists are preparing to engage with lawmakers to ensure the gaming industry’s concerns are heard. Others are quietly monitoring Trump’s campaign statements and the policy shifts that could follow.
One thing is certain: If Trump takes office again, gambling licensees in the U.S. could face a very different landscape than they do today. How much it changes will depend on which policies move forward and how quickly they take effect.
