Majority of Wisconsin Residents Oppose Legalization of Online Sports Betting, Poll Finds

Key Points

• 64% of Wisconsin voters oppose legalizing online sports betting, according to a February 2026 Marquette Law School poll.
• Opposition cuts across party lines: 61% of Republicans, 66% of Democrats, and 74% of independents are against legalization.
• The poll results come as a tribal wagering bill, which could impact gambling regulations, awaits Senate action.

What This Means

This poll indicates substantial resistance among Wisconsin residents to the legalization of online sports betting. The opposition is notable not just overall but also within distinct political groups, with high percentages among Republicans, Democrats, and independents. Such widespread public sentiment may make it difficult for legislators to move forward with proposals to expand online gambling options in the state.

This level of opposition is likely to influence both the debate and the pace of legislative efforts. Lawmakers may feel pressured to consider or even prioritize the views of their constituents as they weigh the potential benefits, such as increased state revenue, against concerns such as problem gambling, integrity in sports, and impacts on community values.

Background

Interest in legalizing online sports betting has grown in various U.S. states since the Supreme Court allowed states to regulate the activity in 2018. In Wisconsin, however, gambling regulations are more restrictive, and most legal wagering is done through tribal-run casinos, with limited mobile sports betting available on tribal lands.

The recent poll, conducted by Marquette Law School from February 11 to February 19, 2026, surveyed 818 registered voters statewide. The findings emerge as the Wisconsin Assembly has passed a bill relating to tribal wagering, which could shape the future framework for gambling in the state.

What Happens Next

With the Senate yet to act on the tribal wagering bill, public opposition highlighted by the poll could weigh heavily on lawmakers’ decision-making. Whether the strong resistance among voters will delay or reshape potential legislation regarding online sports betting remains to be seen, but the poll’s results suggest that significant challenges exist for proponents of expanded gambling options in Wisconsin.

Sources

• Yogonet - Sports Betting

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