Thoughts on gambling expansion through the years
The debate over more casinos and slot machines at race tracks at Illinois has lasted for years. Yet, the conversation has barely changed.
“I have no idea what will happen.”
— Arlington Park Chairman Richard Duchossois in 1997 on the prospect of getting slot machines.
#147;Right now, we just don#146;t know.#148;
#8212; Duchossois last week on the prospects for slot machines at his track.
#147;It#146;s a controversial issue. Some of the same people who voted #145;yes#146; last time voted #145;no#146; this time. Some of the people who voted #145;no#146; last time voted #145;yes#146; this time.#148;
#8212; State Rep. Lou Lang in 1997 on the prospect of getting legislative approval for gambling expansion.
#147;Tomorrow, or next month, or next year.#148;
#8212; Lang last week on when he#146;ll try again.
#147;I don#146;t play the lottery. I think it#146;s a stupid thing to do, myself. But if it raises $100 million, give #146;em Keno.#148;
#8212; Then-Senate President James #147;Pate#148; Philip in 2002.
#147;Given the conditions that exist here in Springfield, I think that the proposed expansion of gaming is a dead issue.#148;
#8212; House Speaker Michael Madigan in 2008.