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New Jersey voters continue to oppose expanding gambling outside Atlantic City casinos, according to a new Fairleigh Dickinson University (FDU) poll, reinforcing a long-standing resistance that could complicate renewed efforts to bring casinos to North Jersey.
The survey, conducted March 20–28 among 805 registered voters, shows public opinion on expansion has remained largely unchanged for more than a decade, and still leans against it.
Opposition remains steady over time
The poll found that a plurality of voters oppose allowing properties outside Atlantic City, while a smaller share supports expansion. The gap has remained consistent with past polling dating back to at least 2014.
The results were as follows:
- 44% favor expansion
- 49% oppose expansion
- 7% don’t know/refused
Dan Cassino, executive director of the FDU Poll, said in a statement:
“People made up their minds about casino expansion a long time ago. Unless something dramatic happens, putting the issue in front of voters is going to lead to the same outcome as it did before.”
Any expansion of casino gambling would require a constitutional amendment approved by voters. Lawmakers have periodically revisited the idea, particularly proposals tied to racetracks in North Jersey such as the Meadowlands.
But the latest polling suggests that a referendum would face significant challenges, much like the failed 2016 ballot question that was overwhelmingly rejected by voters.
Changing market hasn’t shifted voters
Despite major shifts in the regional gaming landscape – including the growth of online casinos, New Jersey sportsbooks, and increased competition from neighboring states – voter sentiment has not followed suit, Cassino said.
“The only thing that’s changed since last time this was tried is more casinos opening in New York. That matters a lot to the folks who want to open casinos, but it doesn’t seem to matter to the voters.”
That disconnect highlights a key challenge for expansion supporters, who often argue that new properties would help New Jersey remain competitive in the broader Northeast gaming market.
Opposition cuts across demographics
The poll shows opposition spans multiple age groups, though the reasoning may differ.
Older voters remain among the most resistant, in part due to the original promise that retail gambling would be limited to Atlantic City, Cassino said.
“Older voters remember the commitment that casinos were only ever going to be in Atlantic City, and they’re holding the state to those promises.”
Younger voters, including those more engaged with online gambling, are also slightly more likely to oppose expansion than support it, suggesting that broader access to gambling through digital platforms has not translated into greater enthusiasm for new brick-and-mortar properties.
Local resistance remains a factor
Geography also plays a role in shaping opinion. Voters in regions closest to potential development sites – including areas near the Meadowlands – are among the most opposed. Only 38% of residents in Bergen and Passaic counties say they support casino expansion, with 56% opposed.
At the same time, resistance remains strong in and around Atlantic City, where concerns persist that new casinos elsewhere in the state could divert revenue from the city’s existing gaming industry.
Outlook uncertain for future referendum
While discussions around retail expansion continue in Trenton, the poll underscores the difficulty of advancing any proposal that ultimately depends on voter approval.
For now, public opinion appears firmly entrenched, Cassino said.
“Unless something changes in a big way, it’s hard to see voters coming to a different conclusion than they have in the past.”
