excerpt:

The Republicans’ last two national party platforms opposed Internet gambling. Online poker players want a new deal at this year’s convention next month.

The Poker Players Alliance, which spent $1.2 million lobbying during the first half of 2008, aims to legalize virtual versions of the game now played under the table. Dozens of people listing poker as their profession have contributed $353,802 to federal candidates this election cycle. And the group will sponsor events at both conventions.

But so far the deck has been stacked against the group, which claims 1 million members nationwide — including a few Republicans in their off hours.

“This shouldn’t be a partisan issue. It should be a personal-freedom issue,” said John Pappas, the alliance’s executive director.

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CQ Politics | Poker Lobby Wants New Deal From GOP

Author Contact Info: Bart Jansen, Congressional Quarterly

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