June 19, 2025
Governor Phil Murphy said this week he is open to discussions about expanding New Jersey casinos beyond Atlantic City. The comments came during a press conference in Trenton following a recent report from the Stockton University Poll that shows growing public support for allowing casinos in other parts of the state.
Murphy emphasized that while he is not currently pushing for expansion, but he is willing to engage in conversations about the possibility. Atlantic City has held an exclusive license for casino gaming since 1978, and all nine of the state’s casinos are located within the resort town.
Previous attempts to legalize New Jersey casinos in other regions, including a 2016 ballot measure to allow up to two casinos in North Jersey, failed to gain voter approval. A Stockton poll, conducted in May, found that 52 percent of New Jersey adults support ending Atlantic City’s casino monopoly, while 37 percent are opposed and 11 percent are undecided. Support was strongest in the northern and central parts of the state.
The possibility of expansion remains controversial. Proponents argue that new casinos would boost state revenue and create jobs, while opponents warn it could further harm Atlantic City, which has struggled with financial instability and casino closures in the past decade. But any change to the state’s gaming laws would likely require a constitutional amendment and voter approval.
Murphy acknowledged the economic significance of Atlantic City and said any discussion about an expansion of New Jersey casinos must include ways to protect the city’s interests. “I want to make sure Atlantic City continues on the road it’s on, which is a very good one,” he said.
