Ohio seems like a prime candidate to legalize online poker. It’s bordered on three sides by other states which have that option: Pennsylvania, Michigan, and West Virginia. With a population of nearly 12 million, it would contribute greatly to the player pool of the U.S. regulated market.

However, the current governor, Mike DeWine, is opposed to any further online gambling expansion after the launch of legal sports betting in 2023.

Retail poker is available in Ohio, particularly in the Columbus area, with Hollywood Casino and Shark Tank being reasonably popular with locals. However, compared to other states of similar size, it’s lacking in terms of “destination” poker rooms or important tournament series.