A new Minnesota Poll published Sunday finds Minnesotans prefer using new forms of gambling revenue instead of higher taxes if a new stadium for the Minnesota Vikings is to be built.
The poll published by the Star Tribune finds widespread support for everything from a state lottery scratch-off game to slots at horse-racing tracks and electronic pull tabs.
In order of popularity, 81 percent of respondents supported a Minnesota Lottery Vikings scratch-off game to help pay for the stadium, followed by 72 percent who liked the idea of video gambling at horse tracks.
Electronic pull tabs in bars and restaurants were favored by 70 percent, while 60 percent said they could support a casino in downtown Minneapolis.
A statewide 2-cent-per-drink tax on alcohol, proposed by St. Paul Mayor Chris Coleman, was favored more narrowly with 53 percent in support of it and 46 percent against.
A clear finding is that Minnesotans don't want the team to leave. About two-thirds of Minnesotans say that keeping the team in the state is important.
However, 56 percent of those polled opposed using public money while 37 percent favored it. Last May, the Minnesota Poll showed 74 percent opposed to public subsidies and 22 percent in favor.
Dayton said he doesn't think Minnesotans or legislators have enough information to make a site decision.