Pope County casino debate continues at the polls as voters focus on Issue 2

POPE COUNTY, Ark. – The fight continues as several groups are still trying to sway voters on a specific issue centered around a Pope County casino license.

The issue has been the subject of years of discussion. One early voter, Kristi Teeters, says she is ready for the debate to be over.

“I think our county is probably pretty divided,” Teeter said.

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The vote, which is statewide on the ballot, has some voters confused when it comes to the meaning and wording used for Issue 2.

“I do think that it’s a little confusing,” Teeter said. “I had to read it a couple of times myself.”

Early voter Robin Reed says, “I verbally talked out loud to myself when voting.”

Voting against Issue 2 would revoke the casino license for Pope County, which was granted by Arkansas voters in 2018 to allow four casinos around the state.

Issue 2 would also require future casinos’ approval by a county vote before issuing a license.

“While some people say there’s economic benefits, I feel like in the long run it would cause other problems socially and economically in the area,” early voter Chad Masters said.

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Those voting against Issue 2 hope the planned Pope County casino breaks ground and brings revenue and entertainment to the area.

“We’re just ready for them to come here,” voter Justin Schuffield said. “We are tired of one Walmart, one skating rink, one movie, all the Dollar Generals and there’s nothing to do.”

Many of these early voters say they already had their minds made up.

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The election night decision will mark the latest outcome in the multi-year-long casino political fight.

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