Published: October 18, 2023, 10:03h.
Last updated: October 18, 2023, 10:03h.
Supporters of the Richmond casino referendum in Virginia are offering free Uber rides and meals to win over voters. The referendum aims to endorse the Richmond Grand Resort & Casino, a $562 million project. Backed by Urban One and Churchill Downs, Inc., this is their second attempt following a narrow rejection in 2021.
The supporters are emphasizing the potential economic benefits of the resort, including 1,300 union jobs and $30 million in annual revenue for the city. With a campaign budget of over $8.1 million, they are providing free Uber vouchers to residents who express support for the project to use during door-to-door canvassing and early voting.
Free Rides and Meals
In addition to free Uber rides to early voting centers, backers of the Richmond casino are offering free meals to voters. Food trucks have been stationed outside early polling centers, and voters can receive a meal at no cost, regardless of their stance on the casino.
We’re celebrating early voting,” said Michael Kelly, a spokesperson for the referendum initiative.
The campaign is jointly funded by Urban One and Churchill, with each company contributing $4 million to the “Richmond Wins” campaign. Additionally, they have donated over $32,000 to state and city lawmakers, including Richmond Mayor Levar Stoney and the Richmond City Council.
Opposition Files Lawsuit
Opponents of the casino resort, led by political strategist Paul Goldman, are facing financial challenges in coordinating their message. Goldman’s group, “No Means No Casino,” has a budget of approximately $200,000, with a significant portion coming from philanthropists James and Barbara Ukrop. Goldman is currently seeking access to the registered voter list, alleging that the state has attempted to censor their messaging.
Goldman’s federal lawsuit against the Virginia Department of Elections alleges violations of the First and 14th Amendments. The case will be heard on Friday in the US Court for the Eastern District of Virginia.
Despite the opposition’s financial disadvantage, the referendum is progressing, and Richmond voters will have the final say on November 7, Election Day.