Taking freedom away is not what America is all about. Poker is an intrinsic part of America’s soul. Poker is an American game. Poker was a vital part of the American frontier. [...]
I love America. And I love to play poker. It is my version of the American dream. I have a simple message to Congress. Keep your hands off of my poker hand.

Greg Raymer – 02/2010 – in The Daily Caller

 

I have played a lot of poker in my time, so I know a winning hand when I see one. Giving the American people more freedom, collecting more tax revenue for the government, enhancing regulations to protect children, and bringing more common sense to our legal system looks like a Royal Flush to me.

Annie Duke – 07/2009 – in The Huffington Post

 

We all think the UIGEA is going to be reversed at some point. It’s just a matter of when. I’m convinced we’re going to see another poker explosion like we saw six years ago. It’ll be second to none.

Mike Sexton – 12/2009 – in PartyPoker’s PokerBlog

 

The government’s attempts to outlaw poker are based upon a misconception of its nature and value. It is not ‘just gambling’, and it should not be subject to the same rules and penalties as other gambling games. Instead, the government should allow you to play poker in regulated and taxed places because poker is good for you and good for America.

David Sklansky & Alan N. Schoonmaker – 09/2007 – in Two plus two Magazine

 

I believe in poker the way I believe in the American Dream. Poker is good for you. It enriches the soul, sharpens the intellect, heals the spirit, and – when played well, nourishes the wallet.

Lou Krieger

 

In Europe, there are more very good players, but also a lot of bad players. In the United States, there are a lot more average and good players. I think there are more great players in Europe than America.

Antonio Esfandiari – 02/2009 – In Poker News Daily