Politics

Why sports betting failed again this session

On the ‘Politically Georgia’ podcast, hosts Greg Bluestein, Tia Mitchell and Patricia Murphy talk about the long-debated proposal
The AJC’s “Politically Georgia” podcast is available on AJC.com and wherever you get your podcasts.
The AJC’s “Politically Georgia” podcast is available on AJC.com and wherever you get your podcasts.
March 18, 2025

Today’s episode of the AJC’s “Politically Georgia” podcast features an in-depth explanation of the sports betting proposals put forward this session.

But first, hosts Greg Bluestein, Patricia Murphy and Tia Mitchell talk about Congress avoiding a government shutdown and U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff’s much anticipated rally to kick off his reelection campaign.

Back at the state Capitol, sports betting fell to the wayside yet again this session. The hosts discuss why legislation did not make it to a vote on the Georgia House floor and provide analysis on its future.

Greg Bluestein interviews Rep. Marcus Wiedower, R-Watkinsville, about the failed legislation.

Rep. Marcus Wiedower, R-Watkinsville, discusses sports betting with "Politically Georgia." (Courtesy)
Rep. Marcus Wiedower, R-Watkinsville, discusses sports betting with "Politically Georgia." (Courtesy)

Wiedower has been a longtime advocate of legalizing sports betting in the Peach State. He says legislators have not been educated enough about sports betting to get the bill across the finish line.

“I think there’s some people that don’t really understand how prevalent online sports betting is right now in the illegal market,” said Wiedower. “At this point, obviously, that education hasn’t gone far enough for people to feel comfortable bringing it to the floor.”

New episodes of the “Politically Georgia” podcast are available every week wherever you get your podcasts. Be sure to subscribe for free at Apple Podcasts, Spotify or any other podcast platform. You can also ask your smart speaker to “play the Politically Georgia podcast.”

Have a question or comment for the hosts? Call the 24-hour “Politically Georgia” podcast hotline at 770-810-5297.

On the next episode: It’s Washington Wednesday. Hosts Tia Mitchell and Patricia Murphy talk with Wall Street Journal reporter Gavin Bade about tariffs.

About the Author

Natalie Mendenhall is an award-winning producer for the "Politically Georgia" podcast. She also steps in front of the mic, creating compelling segments for the show. Before joining the AJC, the Chicago native worked as a senior producer at Georgia Public Broadcasting.

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