Sheldon Adelson concerned about the social cost of Internet Gambling

Sheldon Adelson has generated more wealth from people losing money in casinos than anyone else on earth. Ever.

But he’s concerned about the social costs of Internet gambling. So much so, he plans on ramping up lobbying efforts against its legalization across the United States.

Adelson donated over $95 million in support of Republican causes last year, making him America’s largest private political donor (daylight second and third), so any talk of ramping things up up from here is a scary thought.

And it’s definitely not just talk. He has a net worth of somewhere around $34 billion, is 80 years old and according to his top political adviser, has never been as passionate about any other issue. As for his moral position on exerting such influence on political process, a couple of years ago he told Forbes magazine that he is,

“against very wealthy ­people attempting to or influencing elections. But as long as it’s doable I’m going to do it…”

At least on this issue he’s being straight down the line. I’m not sure this is the case when it comes to his claimed motives for stamping out Internet gambling. A cynic might suggest that it’s more likely he would rather punters just kept on walking through the doors of his casinos than stay at home and play online.

Sheldon Adelson saying he’s concerned about the social cost of any type of gambling, is like Vladimir Putin saying homophobia needs to be stamped out.

Like Melissa Bachman campaigning against the senseless slaughter of Africa’s wildlife.

Like Silvio Berlusconi criticizing Bill Clinton for using his position of power to seduce a woman one-third his age…and visa versa.

Like the Taliban preaching the importance of female education.

Like  Pol Pot condemning human rights abuses.

Like Robert Mugabe lecturing on the merits of sound economic management.

Like Kim Kardashian complaining about the over-exposure of no-talent celebrities these days.

Like Pablo Escobar expressing concerns about cocaine abuse in society.

Like Roman Abramovich saying there’s just way too much conspicuous consumption in the world.

Like Estée Lauder telling you that beauty is only skin deep.

I think the word is hypocrisy.