Richard Blumenthal

In the following viewpoint Connecticut’s attorney general, Richard Blumenthal, claims that Internet gambling interests take advantage of gambling addicts, who find it easier to hide their addiction by using the Internet as opposed to more traditional gambling methods, such as buying lottery tickets. Blumenthal argues that Congress should prohibit all Internet gambling and the use of financial instruments— such as credit and debit cards—when used to finance online gambling. By granting law enforcement broad powers to prosecute those who violate these laws, Blumenthal contends, the government can send a clear message that the United States will not tolerate Internet gambling.

As you read, consider the following questions:

1. In addition to taking advantage of gambling addicts, what are some of the other problems associated with Internet gambling, in Blumenthal’s...