Powerball Reaches Largest Lottery Jackpot In United States History

There could finally be a winner for the Powerball on Wednesday night. The winner will not only win a staggering $1.5 billion, but will be making history by winning the largest lottery jackpot ever in the United States.

The lottery jackpot has made a huge jump from the previous $950 million to $1.5 billion since the last drawing on Saturday, January 9th. With being unable to produce a winner, more and more people are jumping in and buying their tickets. We talked to owner of Mother Tucker’s, Jimmy Pitcock and he said he’s surprised by the amount people that have stopped at his business this week to buy tickets.

“I didn’t really know what to expect for this week. I knew that people would still buy them, but I didn’t know how much. Honestly, it has been better than last week. I think that people were kind of shocked that no one did hit and was wondering how it couldn’t happen. It’s gambling so you don’t know the guarantees behind it,” said Pitcock.

The potential winner of the Powerball will have the option of a cash pay out of $950 million or receive 30 annual payments of $50 million before taxes. The odds of winning are 1 in 292.2 million. Powerball player, Tony Scanlen said that you have to go out and play.

“Everybody has to take a shot, it doesn’t matter how many people you’re up against. You’ll never win if you don’t play,” said Scanlen.

The drawing for the Powerball was set for 11pm on Wednesday.