While a number of elections across the state appear to be interesting contests that will go to the wire, more than 30 members of the Legislature can uncork the champagne and claim victory more than four months before citizens actually vote.

While the House had been a barrier to previous gambling pacts in 2007 and 2009, state representatives joined the Senate on Monday in passing a Seminole gaming compact by a 74-39 vote.

Rep. Bill Galvano, R-Bradenton, maneuvered the measure through the session, bringing it to both a second and third reading on Monday and then moving it through questions and debate.