DraftKings and FanDuel Put $72 Million Into US Midterms to Influence Gambling Policy

^{DraftKings CEO Jason Robins}

The largest US betting companies have contributed at least $72 million to political campaigns ahead of the midterm elections, Reuters reports.

DraftKings, FanDuel, Fanatics and Bet365 donated the money to Win for America, a political committee that supports candidates from both major parties through two affiliated groups: American Future backs Democrats, while the American Conservative Fund supports Republicans.

The betting companies are seeking the election of politicians willing to take the industry’s position into account when considering the legalisation of sports betting, taxation and gambling regulation. However, their financial support does not guarantee decisions favourable to the companies.

Such committees may accept unlimited donations from businesses and individuals. According to Public Citizen, the betting industry has become the third-largest source of corporate funding for the midterm elections, behind the technology and cryptocurrency sectors.

The increase in political spending comes as traditional sportsbooks face growing competition from prediction-market platforms Kalshi and Polymarket.

DraftKings contributed at least $34 million to Win for America, while FanDuel donated $27 million. Bet365 and Fanatics each provided $5.5 million. BetMGM did not contribute to the committee.

Betting companies have been particularly active in funding campaigns in states considering measures that could directly affect the US gambling industry.

In Georgia, groups affiliated with Win for America spent more than $12 million supporting candidates for the state legislature, which is considering the legalisation of online sports betting.

The committee is also investing in election campaigns in Pennsylvania, where authorities have previously discussed raising taxes on online betting operators.

* The US midterm elections will be held on November 3, 2026. All 435 seats in the House of Representatives and roughly one-third of the Senate will be contested.