Son of Donald Trump, Eric Trump is looking to see the family’s Trump National Doral golf resort near Miami, Florida become a gambling destination. A proposal has been discussed behind the scenes in legislature, considering the option to allow existing venues to offer gambling services.

In simple terms, the legislation would allow a gambling license to be transferred to a location where betting is not currently allowed. The measure would also stop local governments from trying to get involved and hinder the process. After the report surfaced of the supposed proposal, Eric Trump declined to comment if the plan was being pushed.

No Comment

Additional comments were requested from the Trump Organization, but the group declined to comment. Donald Trump has also not revealed if this plan would be something of interest.

If the Trumps decide to push the gambling proposal, it could move and end up legalized. Governor Ron DeSantis is considered a close ally of the family. The Trumps might have enough pull to see the measure approved and be of their benefit.

Gambling in Florida

Right now, gambling is very limited in the state. Tribal casinos and pari-mutuels offered limited options including horse race tracks and jai-alai. Some offer cardroom poker games as well. There are no full-scale casino operations in the state currently. Table games like blackjack and roulette are non-existent.

In the state, any policy regarding gambling is usually discussed outside the public eye and is controlled by special interests. For quite a while, talks have been underway to see the Seminole Tribe and the state sign a gambling agreement. Such a compact could bring millions of dollars to the state.

The governor will meet with pari-mutuel gambling operator representatives this week, but it is unclear what will be discussed. A spokeswoman for the governor, Meredith Beatrice, addressed gambling in an email, but not the possibility of using the Doral property.

According to Beatrice, the governor’s office feels it is important to hear from pari-mutuel industry reps as the state considers a path forward as well as options for the gaming industry. She said it is important that the industry have a voice in the conversation.

One point of contention that continues to be an issue is sports betting. The state can’t seem to decide which interests should be in control of the market if sports betting were to be legalized. Another issue is the Walt Disney Company. Disney does not want to see its family destination empire harmed by allowing casino gaming in the state.