Former Democratic presidential candidate Andrew Yang wrote in an op-ed this week that sports betting increases harms such as financial hardship and domestic violence. The ex-New York City mayoral candidate called for the U.S. to rethink regulation of online sports wagering.
Writing for Newsweek, Yang noted that he bets on sports himself after being “enticed” by a promotional offer for new customers. However, he wished he didn’t and he wants to see regulation and expansion of sports wagering reconsidered, for various reasons.
“I would love to see the regulation on this issue rethought,” wrote Yang. “… The facts are clear. Online sports betting is the equivalent of a new tax on Americans that preys upon vulnerable, low-income men in particular. It increases financial stresses and emotional problems. It’s not what your citizens need.”
Ultimately, he advised any states that may be considering legalizing online sports betting to consider the consequences carefully.
“Betting on sports on..