Harness Racing Communications, a division of the USTA

With just days remaining until the March 8 vote to permit slots at tracks in Broward and Dade counties in Florida, there is a flurry of activity.

According to a report in Bloodhorse.com, the group pushing for a yes vote on slots, “Yes For Better Schools and Jobs” is spending much of the $3.7 million it raised from locals and the seven pari-mutuel facilities in those counties. A campaign consultant for the group says they are placing much of their effort in a door-to-door campaign.

Meanwhile, the opposition, including Florida Governor Jeb Bush, is working to defeat the measure. Bush has sent a letter to Christian Coalition of South Florida, as well as church and community leaders, contending that slots at tracks would create a “snowball” effect that would lead to casinos throughout the state. Bush has also asked Secretary of State Glenda Hood to investigate the racing’s industry’s involvement in funding the election.

Randy Johnson, a central Florida Republican opposed to gambling, has filed a resolution in the Florida House that would place an amendment on the ballot statewide repealing slots. He has also begun lining up support for “harsh” regulation of slots should they come to pass.