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VGW has spent more than $1 million on political activity across several US states as the operator behind Chumba Casino, LuckyLand Casino and Global Poker faces more legal challenges to the sweepstakes casino model.
The spending comes alongside much larger legal costs. New York recently secured an $8 million settlement from VGW after the company stopped offering sweepstakes coin play in the state.
Good to Know
- Gaming America calculated more than $1 million in VGW political spending across six states.
- Florida and Alabama accounted for the largest reported amounts.
- VGW agreed to pay $8 million to New York in September 2026.
VGW Spending Spans Six States
Gaming America reported that VGW political spending reached more than $1 million across Florida, Alabama, Texas, Arizona, Tennessee and Kentucky, based on Transparency USA data.
Florida received the largest share. Live Transparency USA records currently show VGW LuckyLand Inc with $412,500 in contributions during the 2026 Florida election cycle, although totals can change as new filings enter the database.
Gaming America also reported spending linked to Florida gubernatorial candidate Byron Donalds and Alabama gubernatorial candidate Tommy Tuberville. VGW declined to comment to the outlet about its political spending.
Alabama records also show substantial activity from VGW. Transparency USA currently lists VGW LuckyLand Inc with $230,500 in contributions during the 2026 cycle.
The spending comes as VGW and other sweepstakes casino operators face different legal treatment from state to state. Some jurisdictions have adopted bans or enforcement actions, while others continue to allow the dual currency model.
New York Settlement Costs VGW $8 Million
New York Attorney General Letitia James announced an $8 million settlement with VGW on September 9.
The state said Chumba Casino, Global Poker and LuckyLand Slots offered casino games through virtual sweepstakes coins redeemable for cash or prizes. New York authorities sent VGW a cease and desist letter in June 2025, after which the company stopped offering sweepstakes coin gambling there.
New York later enacted a formal sweepstakes casino ban in December 2025. The $8 million payment covers disgorgement, penalties and costs.
VGW also faces litigation elsewhere, including cases in Alabama and California. One Alabama case involving VGW remained in arbitration proceedings during 2026.
Leadership has changed during the same period. Founder Laurence Escalante resigned as CEO and executive chairman in July after taking leave earlier in 2026. VGW said the charges against Escalante in Australia were unrelated to the company.
FAQ
How much has VGW spent on US political activity in 2026?
Gaming America reported more than $1 million across Florida, Alabama, Texas, Arizona, Tennessee and Kentucky.
Which brands does VGW operate?
VGW operates Chumba Casino, LuckyLand Casino and Global Poker.
How much did VGW pay New York?
VGW agreed to pay $8 million in disgorgement, penalties and costs under the September 2026 settlement.
Why did VGW leave New York?
New York authorities challenged the sweepstakes coin model and sent VGW a cease and desist letter in 2025. The company then stopped offering sweepstakes coin gambling in the state.
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