Squawk Pod “Please, Spare Me.” Chris Christie on Kalshi & Polymarket 2/20/26
18 snips
Feb 20, 2026 
Ron DeSantis, Florida governor focused on pro-business tax moves and an AI Bill of Rights. Chris Christie, former New Jersey governor turned gaming regulation advisor. They debate whether prediction markets like Kalshi and Polymarket function as unregulated sportsbooks and siphon state revenue. DeSantis explains why businesses and wealthy movers choose Florida and outlines property tax and infrastructure pressures.
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Federal Overreach Vs. State Regulation
- Chris Christie argues the CFTC is overreaching by trying to federally regulate markets states already manage.
- He frames existing state regimes as effective and sees no need for a national gaming board.
Register And Play By State Rules
- Kristie urges Kalshi and Polymarket to register and get licensed in states that allow sports betting if they want to operate legally.
- He warns they must pay state taxes and follow existing rules or face legal action.
‘Not The House’ Is A Weak Defense
- Christie says Kalshi and Polymarket claim they're not the house, but he calls that position legally ridiculous.
- He contends 90% of their revenue is sports betting and they're avoiding regulation and taxes.