The Iowa Racing and Gaming Commission sent a message Thursday that it’s not willing to approve any new gambling licenses — but the commission’s most outspoken member on the issue urged those against expanded gambling not to rest. Mike Mahaffey of Montezuma was the only commissioner to vote against the approval of four new gambling licenses back in May. He says, “After my vote in May, I heard from people who were critical of that vote, and that’s understandable, that’s part of the game. But I heard from many, many people who I believe very honestly, and I am convinced not only with my heart, but with my head, represent the majority of Iowans who’re troubled by the fact that we continue to, continue to expand gambling in the State of Iowa.” Mahaffey says the people who contacted him came from a wide background. He says they were Democrats, Republicans, liberals, conservatives, moderates, lawyers, general citizens, lawyers and “quite a few bankers” who said there’s another side to gambling we don’t hear a lot about. Mahaffey urged those who don’t want more gambling in Iowa to not go quiet.Continue to be part of this process,” he says, “we need to hear from what I consider the majority of Iowans who think enough is enough. But you have to be here to do that.” Mahaffey says if those people are active in the process, their voice will be heard.
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