Faced with a budget shortfall, and with just a little over a week to solve the problem, Governor Strickland has proposed that Ohio make up the difference with gambling proceeds from slot machines. The governor has chosen this proposal rather than simply cutting the size of government - and in spite of numerous prior statements denouncing gambling of any kind:
- Democratic Congressman Ted Strickland, a psychologist, warns of the social costs that accompany gambling addiction, which he called "an insidious condition that can ruin lives." (Cleveland Plain Dealer, 3/24/06)
- Although the proposal includes money to treat gambling addictions, Strickland said its inclusion "points to my biggest concern as a psychologist: This is a difficult addiction to treat." (Cleveland Plain Dealer, 3/24/06)
- "Quite frankly, if I'd been in the legislature when the Ohio lottery passed, I would have opposed it," [Strickland] said. "It amounts to a regressive tax. The benefits of casino gambling in my judgment are significantly outweighed by the negative consequences." (Toledo Blade, 4/10/06)
- Strickland, the Democratic frontrunner, told The Plain Dealer's editorial board earlier this week that he is not supportive of expanding legalized gambling in the state. While he didn't bring up religion, his denomination's Social Principles, which are its guideposts of faith, are clear. They denounce gambling as "a menace to society, deadly to the best interests of moral, social, economic, and spiritual life, and destructive of good government." (Cleveland Plain Dealer, 3/25/06)
- "I don't think an answer to Ohio's economic future is expanded gambling," [Strickland] said." (Columbus Dispatch, 4/13/06)
- Strickland said he always has regarded gambling as a false solution to Ohio's economic-development needs. (Columbus Dispatch, 5/13/06)
- Strickland ... opposes expanded state-sponsored gambling in Ohio as well as three proposed ballot issues this fall to allow casinos or slot machines at racetracks. Strickland, a six-term congressman from Lisbon and a Methodist minister, said his opposition isn't based on moral issues but on a belief that gambling isn't good for the state. (Columbus Dispatch, 4/13/06)
- "The people of Ohio have spoken with a clear voice on this issue time and time again. They do not want an expansion of gambling in their state." - Ted Strickland, 10/25/07