Democratic candidate for governor Andy Beshear has pushed casino gambling expansion as a new revenue source to fix the state pension. He claims the state could bring in $500 million/year in new revenue. Critics say that’s an inflated figure. Now, leaders in the state Senate are saying that if Beshear is elected, his casino proposal is dead on arrival. Senate President Robert Stivers and Senate Majority Leader Damon Thayer said any casino legislation will not pass the senate. This is a reversal for Thayer who once sponsored casino legislation. Whether it’s a political maneuver to throw a wrench into Beshear’s campaign promise or a policy position based on principle, the Senate leaders are acting as a firewall between a predatory industry that’s good at separating vulnerable people from their hard-earned cash.