ANNAPOLIS Md. (AP) — Maryland voters have passed a ballot measure to expand gambling in the state.

The vote for Question 7 on Tuesday came after the most expensive political advertising campaign in Maryland’s history. More than $90 million was spent on television and radio ads.

Gov. Martin O’Malley called a special session in August to take up the gambling expansion to allow table games like blackjack and a casino near the nation’s capital. Lawmakers approved the legislation, which required voter approval.

Supporters say they voted for the ballot question to keep Maryland gamblers from spending their money in neighboring states like Delaware, Pennsylvania and West Virginia.

Opponents say they voted against the expansion because they did not believe the money would be used for education as lawmakers have said.

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