Bonta's Fantasy Sports Ruling and Tribe Donations Raise Concerns

California Attorney General Rob Bonta is facing mounting ethical and political scrutiny following a series of sizable campaign donations—totaling over $100,000—from Native American tribes that operate casinos. These contributions came just before his office issued a landmark decision declaring daily fantasy sports (DFS) contests, including those hosted by DraftKings and FanDuel, to be illegal under state law.

A Timely Ruling with Major Implications

In a 2025 public statement, Bonta classified DFS platforms as a "modern type" of unlawful sports betting, aligning with longstanding tribal opposition to online fantasy contests. These tribes have argued that fantasy sports companies bypass the stringent regulatory standards imposed on tribal gaming, allowing them to threaten casino revenues while operating under the guise of skill-based entertainment.

While Bonta’s spokesperson denied any conflict of interest—stating that contributions from fantasy sports companies were declined—critics claim the timing raises questions about impartiality and influence.

Ethical Debate and Tribal Lobbying

The issue has ignited concerns among ethics watchdogs, especially as tribal groups have historically pushed for stricter enforcement against fantasy sports. For years, they have maintained that platforms like FanDuel and DraftKings siphon off income from state-sanctioned gambling operations.

Tribal leaders, who welcomed Bonta’s decision, are now pressing for immediate enforcement actions to remove DFS operators from California. These developments underscore the broader power struggle between digital disruptors and entrenched tribal gaming interests.

Fantasy Sports Operators at a Crossroads

The ruling could mark a turning point for fantasy sports operators in California. With legal clarity now in place, companies may be forced to either lobby for legislative changes or exit the market altogether. DraftKings and FanDuel maintain that their platforms are rooted in skill, not chance—a distinction that could form the basis of legal challenges moving forward.

California's gaming ecosystem is complex, shaped by decades of legal agreements that grant tribes exclusive control over most gambling activities. With this new directive, the state reaffirms its regulatory stance, signaling increased pressure on platforms that operate in legal gray areas.

What Comes Next for Bonta and California's Gaming Landscape

Attorney General Bonta defended the decision as a matter of legal duty, asserting his obligation to clarify the status of DFS under state law. However, the intersection of political donations and public policy continues to raise transparency concerns.

As California navigates this new frontier in gambling regulation, the outcome could influence how other states handle the rapidly evolving fantasy sports industry.