Idaho Gov. Brad Little defended the Idaho Lottery against criticism that it preys on the get-rich hopes of poor people on Friday, moments after accepting the Lottery’s biggest-ever annual dividend check for Idaho schools and state buildings.
“There’s nothing wrong with people having a little hope in their life — that’s a good thing,” Little told the Idaho Press. “The people obviously voted to put in the lottery,” Little said. “It became law. In essence, it was in response to a public demand.”
This year, the Lottery gave the public schools of Idaho $60 million.
“I wholeheartedly thank the whole Lottery team,” said state Superintendent of Schools Sherri Ybarra. “They are truly partners in education.”