A former Maine Republican gubernatorial hopeful who claimed the leading candidate was ‘unethical’ has been called out for betting on his own race.
Ben Midgley has been penalized by Kalshi, a betting website, for gambling on his personal political fortunes.
Before Bobby Charles won the nomination in the primary contest against Midgely, the latter’s campaign filed an ethics complaint against his opponent claiming he was hiding behind an anonymous website critical of Midgley.
Speaking of ethics, Kalshi says it has suspended Midgley from placing bets for three years after he bet $1,000 on his own race.
In a statement shared with The Associated Press, Midgley claimed he was unaware candidates could not support themselves on Kalshi.
He says he viewed using the betting platform as “a novelty and entertainment source.”
“The moment I became aware the site preferred not to have candidates supporting themselves, I suspended any involvement,” Midgley said.
Midgley also said he had no winnings from his trades.
“It is our understanding that the Kalshi fee goes to charity, so happy about that,” he said, without specifying “our.”
Kalshi said Midgley violated the company’s rules that prohibit someone from placing trades on an outcome they have influence over or involvement in.
“If a Trader is a decision maker, either directly or indirectly, or has any influence, directly or indirectly on the outcome of the Underlying event of any Contract, that Trader is prohibited from attempting to enter into any trade,” the company said.
Kalshi ordered Midgely to pay a settlement of $5,434.30. Kalshi also banned him from the platform for three years.
The odds ended up favoring the ‘unethical’ Charles over his gambling opponent, who threw the dice and lost.
Can’t make it up folks.
I always thought that Midgley had kind of a funny smile …..
Always wondered if he had loose fitting dentures ….
Or no teeth …..
Sounds like Ben might have himself a little gambling problem .?
It’s probably best that he didn’t win .
I could look past this if only Midgley had trained the Afghani or Iraqi police, just like Bobby Charles.