Where Minn. gov candidates stand on gambling

By The Associated Press

Minnesota's next governor could decide the fate of proposals to expand casino-style gambling in the state. A brief look at where the leading candidates stand:

MARK DAYTON, DEMOCRAT:

The former U.S. senator says he supports a state-owned casino at the Mall of America, with the profits going to education. He won't rule out supporting the racino plan, which would allow slot machines at horsetracks.

TOM EMMER, REPUBLICAN:

As a legislator, he has taken steps to eliminate gambling and expand it. Emmer says he doesn't back additional gambling as a revenue source for the state amid its current budget trouble. He hasn't said whether he would back or block gambling bills that go beyond the budget.

MATT ENTENZA, DEMOCRAT:

The former House minority leader says he wouldn't back additional gambling. Entenza says the revenue stream is too erratic and the social costs are too high.

ROB HAHN, INDEPENDENCE PARTY:

The magazine publisher says he'd push for riverboat gambling in Minnesota, with up to six new gambling parlors. He would put the money toward a range of state-financed programs.

TOM HORNER, INDEPENDENCE PARTY:

The public relations executive is open to the racino proposal as a publicly regulated alternative to the tribal casinos. But Horner says he would first try to renegotiate gambling compacts between the tribes and the state to get the public a cut of existing profits.

MARGARET ANDERSON KELLIHER, DEMOCRAT:

The House speaker distinguishes between casino games and charitable gambling, such as pull-tab sales in bars and bingo. Kelliher says she backs charitable gambling but opposes expanded casino-style gambling.