Ted Olson, Who Played a Key Role in the Legalization of Sports Betting, Passes Away at 84


Date: November 13, 2024, 03:07h. 

Last updated on: November 13, 2024, 03:07h.

Theodore (Ted) Olson, a prominent American lawyer who held key positions in the US government, passed away today at the age of 84.

Ted Olson sports betting Supreme Court
New Jersey Gov. Chris Christie (R), right, speaks in front of the United States Supreme Court alongside attorney Ted Olson on Dec. 4, 2017, in Washington, D.C. Olson passed away on Nov. 13, 2024, at the age of 84. (Image: Getty)

Olson was known for his conservative legal views and his involvement in numerous cases before the US Supreme Court.

One of his significant cases was Bush v. Gore in 2000, which decided the outcome of a presidential election recount in Florida. He also represented same-sex couples in overturning Proposition 8 in California.

Olson’s work had a lasting impact on the US gaming industry, particularly in his role in challenging federal laws that restricted sports betting.

Sports Betting Advocate

In 2010, he played a key role in New Jersey’s efforts to legalize sports betting, leading to a change in federal laws that allowed states to regulate this industry.

Despite initial legal challenges, Olson successfully argued for New Jersey’s right to implement its sports betting laws, leading to a groundbreaking Supreme Court decision in 2018.

His work paved the way for states across the country to legalize sports gambling, empowering them to set their own regulations in this area.

Olson emphasized the importance of states’ rights in determining their laws on sports wagering, a principle upheld by the Supreme Court in its ruling.

Remembering Ted Olson

In addition to his legal legacy, Olson’s personal life was marked by tragedy, with the loss of his wife Barbara in the 9/11 terrorist attacks.

He is survived by his second wife, Lady Booth, whom he married in 2006, and leaves behind a lasting impact on American law and society.



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