Md. gov says he's working hard for slots vote WASHINGTON (AP) (wesm) - Maryland Gov. Martin O'Malley says he's working hard for the passage of a November referendum on slot machine gambling in the state, despite claims to the contrary.

The governor responded to reports that he's distancing himself from the issue Tuesday, saying he agrees with Montgomery County Executive Isiah Leggett, who announced last week that he is reluctantly supporting the measure.

O'Malley says in a perfect world the state would not have to face the decision, but gambling revenue will help the state avoid higher taxes or budget cuts in areas like education.

Proponents say slots are expected to provide hundreds of millions of dollars a year in revenue, but critics say those revenues won't start flowing for years if voters approve the referendum.

The Democratic governor made the comments during an appearance on Washington radio station WTOP's "Ask The Governor" program.

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