EXCLUSIVE: Most Americans oppose betting on elections, government events, Reuters/Ipsos poll finds
- Over 60% of both Democrats and Republicans oppose using prediction markets for election outcomes.
- Bipartisan majorities view betting on military actions and government policy as unethical and potentially corrosive.
- Poll reveals 75% of Americans see prediction markets as nothing more than glorified gambling.
- Concerns mount over insider trading risks and the integrity of democratic processes as platforms face heavy regulatory scrutiny.
Brief Summary
A new Reuters/Ipsos poll finds that the American public is largely repulsed by the rise of prediction markets like Polymarket and Kalshi. Despite the industry's massive marketing blitz and claims of providing 'unbiased information,' voters across the political spectrum are signaling a deep-seated distrust, viewing the commoditization of elections and military actions as a dangerous step toward gambling with the nation's future.
Why This Matters
This isn't just about whether you can place a side bet on the next president; it's about the future of how information and power intersect in your democracy. If these platforms are allowed to operate without strict oversight, you are looking at a system where those with inside information—congressional staffers, lobbyists, or government officials—could potentially profit off the very policies they shape. As the debate moves toward the Supreme Court, the outcome will determine if your government affairs become just another asset class for high-frequency traders to exploit, potentially skewing public perception and further eroding faith in the integrity of the ballot box.