Tuberville Took Gifts From Sweepstakes Operator, Florida Casino

U.S. Sen. Tommy Tuberville accepted campaign contributions from a company that operates sweepstakes-style gaming outlets and from a Florida-based casino, according to his campaign’s most recent finance filing. The donors were listed among other itemized contributors in the filing submitted for the latest reporting period.

The report identifies one donor described as a business that runs prize-based sweepstakes gaming locations and a second donor tied to a Florida casino company. The filing includes the donors’ names, business affiliations and contribution amounts as required by state campaign finance rules. The records do not list any contracts, services or other arrangements connected to the donations.

Sweepstakes operators offer prize-based games that in some states operate where traditional casinos are limited or restricted by law. Companies that own or operate casinos in Florida have in the past made political contributions in neighboring states when they have business interests or regulatory issues that cross state lines.

Alabama has ongoing legislative debate over the expansion and regulation of gambling, including discussions of casino licensing and the legal status of sweepstakes-style gaming. The governor’s office and state agencies have roles in enforcement decisions and in setting priorities for any new legislation related to gaming.

Tuberville is campaigning for the Republican nomination for governor while retaining his U.S. Senate seat. His campaign finance reports will be updated in future filing cycles and are maintained as public records by state election authorities.