Smith on gambling revenue
question:
Gov. Schwarzenegger has turned to Indian gaming compacts as a way to generate money for the state. He has also suggested that the state try to get more money from its lottery. Do you believe that gambling is an appropriate way to generate revenue for the state? Are you in favor of off-reservation casinos?answer:
The Indian gaming compacts are not the solution to our budget and money problems. The problem is excessive spending in Sacramento. Over the last five years the state revenues have grown 42% and Sacramento has spent at 44% therefore giving us an enormous budget deficit. Sacramental continues to try and tax the vices of the states population including cigarettes, alcohol and gambling but the more responsible and viable solution is responsible spending. Each of us has to spend within our family budgets and the state of California should be required to do likewise.