Today’s episode of the AJC’s “Politically Georgia” podcast features an in-depth explanation of the sports betting proposals put forward this session.

But first, hosts Greg Bluestein, Patricia Murphy and Tia Mitchell talk about Congress avoiding a government shutdown and U.S. Sen. Jon Ossoff’s much anticipated rally to kick off his reelection campaign.

Back at the state Capitol, sports betting fell to the wayside yet again this session. The hosts discuss why legislation did not make it to a vote on the Georgia House floor and provide analysis on its future.

Greg Bluestein interviews Rep. Marcus Wiedower, R-Watkinsville, about the failed legislation.

Rep. Marcus Wiedower, R-Watkinsville, discusses sports betting with "Politically Georgia." (Courtesy)

Credit: Photo contributed by the candidate

icon to expand image

Credit: Photo contributed by the candidate

Wiedower has been a longtime advocate of legalizing sports betting in the Peach State. He says legislators have not been educated enough about sports betting to get the bill across the finish line.

“I think there’s some people that don’t really understand how prevalent online sports betting is right now in the illegal market,” said Wiedower. “At this point, obviously, that education hasn’t gone far enough for people to feel comfortable bringing it to the floor.”

New episodes of the “Politically Georgia” podcast are available every week wherever you get your podcasts. Be sure to subscribe for free at Apple Podcasts, Spotify or any other podcast platform. You can also ask your smart speaker to “play the Politically Georgia podcast.”

Have a question or comment for the hosts? Call the 24-hour “Politically Georgia” podcast hotline at 770-810-5297.

On the next episode: It’s Washington Wednesday. Hosts Tia Mitchell and Patricia Murphy talk with Wall Street Journal reporter Gavin Bade about tariffs.

About the Author

Keep Reading

Aerial photo shows the Mercedes-Benz Stadium decorated with College Football Championship logos ahead of the 2025 College Football National Championship between Notre Dame and Ohio State, Friday, January 17, 2025, in Atlanta. (Hyosub Shin / AJC)

Credit: HYOSUB SHIN / AJC

Featured

New Labor Commissioner Barbara Rivera Holmes speaks during a news conference at the state Capitol in Atlanta on Tuesday, March 18, 2025. (Ben Gray for the AJC)

Credit: Ben Gray for the Atlanta Journal-Constitution