Last year, in the words of “Last Week Tonight” host John Oliver, “Americans basically spent more on the lottery than they spent on America.” And although lottery commercials would have you believe that proceeds go to charitable causes, the truth is a bit more complicated.

—Posted by Natasha Hakimi Zapata

Your support matters…

Independent journalism is under threat and overshadowed by heavily funded mainstream media.

You can help level the playing field. Become a member.

Your tax-deductible contribution keeps us digging beneath the headlines to give you thought-provoking, investigative reporting and analysis that unearths what's really happening- without compromise.

Give today to support our courageous, independent journalists.

SUPPORT TRUTHDIG