A California judge temporarily blocked state regulators from banning blackjack at cardrooms, a victory for private gambling halls over tribal casinos. The ruling keeps the legal battle alive, benefiting politicians who receive campaign donations from both sides.
Key facts: The preliminary injunction lasts 45 days, with a court hearing on June 30. Tribes have donated $15.8 million to state legislators, while cardrooms contributed $2.8 million.
Attorney General Rob Bonta, up for reelection, received $244,000 from cardrooms and $531,000 from tribes since 2012. The dispute affects local government tax revenue, with San Jose receiving $30 million annually from cardrooms.
The ongoing fight ensures continued campaign contributions from powerful gambling interests.