Posted6/4/2021 5:30 AM While state lawmakers might wish that Arlington Park remain open for horse racing, they're not taking nearly the same tack as former Gov. Jim Edgar, who thinks legislators and the governor's office should apply pressure on owner Churchill Downs Inc. Instead, their views seem to be grounded in the reality of the moment, amid a report that Churchill Downs has reached a deal to sell the historic Arlington Heights venue.
"I don't think the governor can intervene in any sort of formal way," said state Sen. Bill Cunningham, the Senate's point person on gambling. "One thing I will agree with former Governor Edgar: There are many people who care about horse racing who are upset at Arlington/Churchill Downs/Rivers (Casino) for all the obvious reasons."