October 16, 2026 – DALLAS — A coalition of conservative organizations and advocacy groups is calling on the State Fair of Texas to cut ties with DraftKings, arguing that partnering with a major online gambling company directly undermines the iconic event’s family-friendly mission.
The coalition—which includes Texans for Fiscal Responsibility (TFR), Stop Predatory Gambling, Texans Against Gambling, Texas Values, and Texas Eagle Forum—is urging fair leadership to terminate its sponsorship deal with DraftKings immediately and enact policies prohibiting future partnerships with companies that market predatory gambling.
The controversy highlights growing concerns over the rapid expansion and accessibility of online gambling. Critics emphasize that modern sportsbooks allow users to place bets instantly from their smartphones on virtually anything—ranging from live sporting events and political races to weather outcomes like daily rainfall. Advocates warn that this constant access increases the risk of gambling addiction, severe personal debt, financial hardship, bankruptcy, and exposure to gambling among minors.
Despite the pushback, State Fair of Texas President Mitchell Glieber defended the collaboration, emphasizing the tangible benefits provided to visitors.
“DraftKings provided great value to fairgoers this year by sponsoring an exciting drone show and free parking for our guests,” Glieber said in a statement.
However, opponents argue that promotional perks like free parking and evening entertainment come at too high a cost when tied to an industry they believe harms Texas families. The coalition continues to push state fair leadership to realign its corporate sponsorships with the values of the community it serves.
