Expanded Gambling Approval To Bring Table Games To Md.

BALTIMORE (WJZ) -- In Maryland, several key ballot issues drew voters to the polls in high numbers. One of the most hotly contested was expanded gambling, which pulled out a victory early Wednesday morning.

Jessica Kartalija has the latest on the battle over expanded gambling here in Maryland.

Fifty-two percent of voters are in favor of expanded gambling and 48 percent are against. Supporters say expanded gambling will keep more money in our state, create jobs and give money to education.

At National Harbor, those in support of Question 7 gathered to see the results of the election. That's also where they want to see a new casino built.

As Marylanders went to the polls, politicians worked to sway those still up in the air on Question 7.

"For us, Question 7 is making sure we keep revenue in the state of Maryland," said Prince George's County Executive Rushern Baker.

With multi-million dollar ad campaigns on both sides, politicians hit polling places in the 11th hour.

"I just think it's critically important for Maryland to step up to keep Maryland money here in Maryland and not in West Virginia, to support our neighbors in Prince George's County but really for all over the state," said Howard County Executive Ken Ulman.

"They just say this one thing over and over again that there are going to be more money for schools and you're going to believe it, but I think most people know by now that's not the case," said Marta Mossburg, Public Policy Institute.

Question 7 allows for additional slot machines, adds table games in addition to those slots and allows a sixth casino to be built at National Harbor in Prince George's County.

That casino at National Harbor would be similar to what you'd see at Atlantic City or Las Vegas.