Gambling In Bubbleland

On Background - NEWEST LOGO
On Background - NEWEST LOGO

Gambling In Bubbleland

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Video gambling machines are not allowed in Chicago. What Mayor Rahm Emanuel wants is one big downtown casino. But meanwhile, unregulated, ‘slot style’ machines have started popping up all across Chicago — in convenience stores, gas stations, and even a laundromat. 

WBEZ investigative reporter Dan Mihalopoulos explains what he found when he started looking into these “mini-casinos” and why it matters.

Each week at On Background, WBEZ’s team of political reporters brings you the backstory on the week’s big story. Host Becky Vevea and guests take you inside the back rooms of Chicago and Illinois government to better understand the people, places and forces shaping today’s politics. Find more episodes and where to subscribe here.