Why does my taxable income go up if my gambling winnings and losses are the same

[DoninGA]

Gambling losses can only be deducted up to the amount of the gambling winnings. Gambling winnings are reported on Form 1040 Schedule 1 on Line 8 as Other Income. Gambling Losses are reported on Form 1040 Schedule A as a Miscellaneous itemized deduction. Gambling losses are not a one-for-one reduction in winnings. Your total itemized deductions reported on Form 1040 Schedule A must be greater than the standard deduction for your filing status to have any tax benefit.