DraftKings-Backed PAC Spends $1.2M in Illinois Primaries

In Illinois, a DraftKings-funded super PAC has spent more than $1.2 million in Democratic legislative primaries, following the state's introduction of a per-bet wagering tax that industry representatives said contributed to a decline in betting activity.

The Illinois sports betting market began applying a $0.25 tax to each sports wager last fall. Industry figures said wagering activity in the state dropped about 15% year-on-year after the policy took effect.

In response, American Future, a super PAC financed by DraftKings subsidiary DK Crown Holdings, began spending heavily in Illinois Democratic primaries scheduled for March 17. Campaign filings showed the group has already committed about $1.2 million, making it the largest outside spender in the races.

The largest share of the PAC's funding supported Sen. Emil Jones III. American Future directed more than $263,000 toward Jones' campaign. Jones was indicted on federal bribery charges in 2022 and faces little-known challengers in his re-election bid.

The PAC has also spent more than $220,000 in the 40th Legislative District in northwest Chicago. The funding backs incumbent Representative Jaime Andrade Jr. against challenger Miguel Alvelo-Rivera. 

Additional spending has targeted several other Illinois races. American Future spent $164,000 supporting Adam Braun in the 13th District, $125,000 backing Saba Haider in the 84th District, and $159,000 supporting Aja Kearney in the 34th District.

DraftKings and FanDuel expand political spending

The Illinois spending reflects a broader political strategy as DraftKings, as well as FanDuel, have increased their role in federal elections during the 2026 cycle.

Federal Election Commission filings show both companies have directed millions of dollars to political committees as lawmakers debate the effects of online sports betting and consider restrictions on advertising and gambling addiction programs.

DraftKings has focused much of its federal spending on Republican-aligned groups. On December 16, 2025, the company donated $500,000 to the Senate Leadership Fund, a super PAC that supports Republican Senate candidates.

DraftKings also contributed $2 million to a political committee called Win For America. The group later transferred $500,000 to the American Conservative Fund, which supports Senate Republicans. Win For America also sent $450,000 to American Future PAC, the organization that later funded Illinois legislative campaigns.

Before the recent donations, DraftKings had made limited federal political contributions. Previously, its only federal donation since its founding in 2012 was $500,000 to the 2024 Republican National Convention. The company also donated $502,000 to President Donald Trump's 2025 inauguration committee.

FanDuel has also expanded its federal political spending. On Dec. 24, 2025, the company donated $500,000 to the Senate Leadership Fund and $500,000 to the Congressional Leadership Fund, which supports Republican House candidates.

The same day, FanDuel contributed $500,000 each to the Senate Majority PAC and the House Majority PAC, which support Democratic candidates. FanDuel also created FanDuel PAC in June 2025 and has raised roughly $130,000 through employee contributions.