Representative Barney Frank (D - MA) will open the day Sunday at the World Series of Poker by calling out the ceremonial "Shuffle Up and Deal." The pro-gambling legislator will later field questions from the press and players at a news conference.
Frank is already considered a friend of online gambling. His visit at the poker tournament is greatly anticipated, as Frank is moving ahead with new legislation that will repeal the current ban, known as the Unlawful Internet Gambling Enforcement Act.
One of Frank's proposals sets the framework for a legal and regulated Internet gambling in the US. The other targets the UIGEA, crippling it from taking greater effect come December.
Frank's visit is taking place on July 5, during the Independence Day weekend. The visit - and the tournament - will be carried live nationally on ESPN.
