Tarcísio de Freitas, the São Paulo governor seeking re-election, voiced his stance against gambling during a recent debate, asserting that Brazil must put an end to betting. In a bid to attract conservative voters, he joined a growing chorus of prominent figures criticizing the sports betting sector.
With a strong likelihood of continuing his tenure at the Palácio dos Bandeirantes, Tarcísio declared, "Either Brazil ends betting, or betting ends Brazil. We have to understand that this is a health problem." This declaration came during the "Health Dialogues" event hosted by the Union of Hospitals, Clinics and Laboratories of São Paulo (SindHosp).
The rapid proliferation of online betting platforms has positioned Brazil as one of the largest gambling markets globally. Tarcísio, however, contends that this trend extends beyond mere entertainment, evolving into a public health crisis that necessitates immediate action.
He likened the current gambling situation to historical battles against smoking addiction, emphasizing the need for the state to offer specialized care for those affected. Tarcísio claimed that gambling addiction should be recognized and treated as an illness.
He linked the surge in gambling to rising household debts in Brazil, stating that "20% of Brazilians' income is committed to gambling,
