This week, Victor Rocha, chair of the Indian Gaming Association (IGA), and executive director Jason Giles were joined by longtime association chairman Ernest Stevens Jr. and journalist Mark Trahant, former editor of Indian Country Today, to discuss the future of Indian affairs under the Trump administration. A significant part of their conversation focused on the potential changes in the landscape for Indian gaming.
One key topic was North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum’s recent appointment as the new Secretary of the Interior, a critical role for Indian affairs previously held by Deb Haaland. Rocha acknowledged that while Burgum is 'not the worst we could do,' he has a mixed track record. Although he has shown some protection for tribal rights, Rocha noted concerns regarding online gaming, referencing Burgum’s past decision to sign new compacts with state tribes that denied them exclusivity for digital wagering.
Rocha also expressed worries about the federal government tightening tribal casino approvals under the new administration, predicting that initiatives like 'no more land into trust, no more off-reservation gaming' might be implemented. He mentioned that under Joe Biden’s presidency, there were numerous controversial project approvals, including some for off-reservation casinos, which have historically faced significant hurdles.
Trahant observed that if Trump or his advisors stood to benefit, controversial projects may continue, noting a recent incident in Florida where GOP lawmakers rejected a special session meant to ban signature gathering companies, a measure Trump might oppose due to its potential to complicate his own casino development plans.
Giles addressed the pressing need for federal assistance to combat the illegal gambling market, emphasizing that tribes must fight the rise of sweepstakes sites in California and similar regions. He indicated the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC), which oversees Indian gaming regulations, has been without a confirmed chair for over a year following the resignation of longtime chairman Sequoyah Simermeyer, who moved to FanDuel.
Trahant further highlighted that the economic impact and employment figures associated with tribal gaming should warrant more attention from lawmakers, who currently seem more focused on attracting major corporate players like Microsoft and Tesla.
Stevens insisted on the importance of patience and strategic thinking. 'We have to hunker down and fight smart,' he stated, stressing the need to confront these challenges head-on rather than hoping they will resolve themselves.
He reflected on historical periods of adversity, comparing today’s challenges to times in the early 20th century when prominent business figures like John D. Rockefeller wielded considerable influence over politics, leading to significant land losses for Native Americans. He pointed out that past initiatives during the Nixon administration to reduce federal government size faced substantial resistance, unlike today.
Stevens underscored the need for tribal leaders to prioritize education, especially as tribal colleges grapple with funding issues. He shared his personal commitment to advocate in Washington for his community, drawing inspiration from his father, Ernest Stevens Sr., a Marine veteran and Indian rights advocate. 'We have to fight to not let anyone change what works for us,' he declared, emphasizing the crucial role of effective leadership.
Recently, at the ICE Barcelona conference, Stevens promoted the tribal gaming industry, proclaiming that tribes are 'open for business' and looking to expand into new ventures. With respect to Trump's business acumen, he encouraged Indian Country to pursue their commercial interests while remaining vigilant against any threats to sovereignty. 'If you start throwing haymakers, that’s how you get knocked out. But you gotta throw something,' he advised.
