Patrice Kunesh testified on Wednesday before the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, expressing her commitment to the role of chairperson of the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC). During a nearly 45-minute hearing, she addressed key topics such as tribal economics, Indian gaming, and self-determination. Although the committee did not take a vote, its support for Kunesh's nomination seemed evident.
If the committee endorses her for the NIGC post, Kunesh would still require confirmation from the full U.S. Senate.
Committee chairman Brian Schatz introduced Kunesh as a "proven leader who can and will achieve these goals," noting the supportive letters the committee has received from various tribes.
Should Kunesh's nomination go through, she would succeed Sequoyah Simermeyer, who stepped down in February to join FanDuel. Since May, Sharon Avery has been serving as the acting chair.
In her opening statement, Kunesh outlined three main priorities for the NIGC. Firstly, she aims to "fulfill the mission of NIGC in promoting tribal economic development and maintaining the critical integrity of the gaming industry." Secondly, she highlighted the importance of managing the risks presented by emerging technologies and gaming formats, including online gaming and artificial intelligence. Lastly, she emphasized her commitment to good governance practices within the NIGC and ensuring the Commission has adequate resources to carry out its mission.
Senators probed a wide range of issues, including the $49.1 billion Indian gaming sector and challenges such as human trafficking. Vice-chairman Lisa Murkowski focused her questions on human trafficking, to which Kunesh responded that she perceives notable information gaps regarding its intersection with gaming. She expressed a desire to learn more about the issue and stated that it would be a priority to ensure gaming venues are safe from illegal activities like human trafficking. Kunesh also mentioned the need to take action to support survivors.
On the topic of Indian gaming, Kunesh shared her commitment to understanding the dynamics, pressures, and tensions surrounding the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, which establishes the federal framework for gambling in Indian Country.
Currently, Kunesh serves as the commissioner of the Administration for Native Americans. Her background includes executive roles at the Native American Rights Fund, Pehin Haha Consulting, and the Federal Bank of Minnesota. She is a descendant of the Standing Rock Lakota tribe.
