Governor, candidates weigh the pros, cons
Governor Mitt Romney is likely to veto a bill legalizing slot machine gambling if the Legislature passes it, meaning that legislators who support the bill would have to override him or return to the issue next year, when a new governor is in office. Here's a look at how Romney and potential and declared gubernatorial candidates view the issue.
Romney (Republican): In 2003, Romney said he would support adding slot machines under certain conditions to help the state emerge from its fiscal crisis. The issue then died before it reached his desk. Last year, under pressure from conservative activists in key presidential primary states, Romney vowed to oppose any such legislation, citing the improved economy and concerns about potential social costs.
Chris Gabrieli (Democrat): Gabrieli insists he has not decided whether to seek the nomination, but he said he views slot machines as not much different from Keno and other forms of legal gambling. If the racetracks want slots, the communities approve, and the state oversight was sound, Gabrieli said, he would be open to bringing them to Massachusetts.
Kerry Healey (Republican): In a break with Romney, Healey is open to the idea of adding slot machines at racetracks, said Tim O'Brien, her campaign manager. Healey does not want to see the racetracks close, O'Brien said, but if slot machines were legal she would want to make sure lottery revenue -- and thus local aid to cities and towns -- did not suffer.
Christy Mihos (may run as Republican or Independent): Mihos said he had been ambivalent about adding slot machines at racetracks, but has studied the proposal closely in recent days and now believes it would be good for the state. ''I would be in favor," he said, adding that it would be important that the state regulate the industry closely.
Deval L . Patrick (Democrat): Patrick is opposed to bringing slot machines to Massachusetts, according to campaign spokesman Kahlil Byrd. Patrick recognizes the case for saving jobs and gaining additional revenue, Byrd said, but he's worried slot machine gambling could have a negative impact on communities, and on the lottery. ''We can't do anything to jeopardize that," Byrd said of the lottery.
Thomas F. Reilly (Democrat): Reilly is open to expanded gambling in Massachusetts and ready to work with the Legislature to make sure it's done right, said campaign spokesman Corey Welford. ''[Reilly] has long believed that any expansion of gaming here should be done comprehensively, taking into account public safety, economic and fiscal costs and benefits, potential social problems, and the need for strong and professional oversight," Welford said.
SCOTT HELMAN
