Table Games Polling

Landings Research of Fort Collins, Colo., is polling likely Kanawha County voters in advance of the special June 9 election on table games, The Associated Press reports.

The survey tests statements both pro and con to gauge what might sway voters. It also asks about the direction of the state, Kanawha County and their economies.

The poll is also asking residents whether they feel safe walking in downtown Charleston at night. The survey includes several statements linking gambling to increased crime.

One of the first sets of questions, though, seeks to measure the favorable/unfavorable ratings of several public officials (without their titles) and groups:

- Kanawha County Commissioner Dave Hardy;
- Sen. Vic Sprouse, R-Kanawha;
- West Virginia Family Foundation;
- the Legislature;
- President Bush;
- Gov. Joe Manchin;
- Tri-State Racetrack and Gaming Center;
- Charleston Mayor Danny Jones;
- Kanawha County Commission President Kent Carper.

At least one of the other three tracks, Charles Town Races & Slots, has done polling since the table games legislation passed. The initial results helped prompt its parent company to petition the Jefferson County Commission for the special Saturday vote.

Vowing to sue over the new law and block these four local elections, the family foundation expects to have its legal challenge ready this week, its lawyer tells AP.