Andrew Yang, former Democratic presidential candidate, has criticized the expansion of legal sports betting in the US, comparing it to lottery systems that disproportionately affect lower-income individuals.

Yang, while admitting to using sports betting apps himself, warns about their addictive nature and potential financial impact on vulnerable populations. "It's incredibly easy to imagine people betting money that they can ill afford," he stated on X.

Research supports Yang's concerns about gambling's impact on lower-income communities. The Economist reports that the poorest 1% of households spend approximately $600 annually (5% of their income) on lottery tickets - roughly 30 times more than wealthier households as a percentage of income.

Key statistics highlight the scale of gambling in America:

• Americans spent over $100 billion on state lotteries last year
• Sports betting has generated $6.8 billion in state tax revenue since 2018
• During the pandemic, the poorest 1% of households increased their lottery spending by $100, while the richest 1% only increased by $10

Despite his criticism of sports betting, Yang maintains support for other forms of gambling, including online poker and the development of full-scale casinos in New York City. His stance reflects a nuanced view of gambling regulation rather than complete opposition.

Yang's political career included a notable 2020 presidential campaign, backed by prominent figures including Elon Musk, Jack Dorsey, and Sam Altman. His current odds for winning the 2028 election stand at approximately 125/1.

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