Ernie Stevens, Jr., has been re-elected by acclamation to serve his 12th two-year term as chairman of the Indian Gaming Association. Stevens, who ran unopposed, said he was honored and grateful for his re-election and that his commitment has been “unwavering” since he first took the role.
“For 24 years, I have remained steadfast and I will not unpack my bags for the next two years either,” Stevens said in a statement. “Together, we will vigorously advance our proactive agenda and stand ready to unite Indian Country to defend tribal sovereignty at all costs. I promised each of you that I would dedicate myself fully — morning, noon, and night — to champion our interests in tribal-government gaming.”
During his tenure, Indian gaming revenues have soared from $11 billion in 2000 to over $49.1 billion in 2024, solidifying tribal gaming as the largest segment of the U.S. gaming industry.
The election was held on the final day of the membership meeting during the 2025 Indian Gaming Tradeshow & Convention in San Diego. This year marked the 40th anniversary of the IGA, an organization Stevens said has served as a powerful advocate for the voice of Indian Country.
Over the past four decades, the IGA has not only influenced policy and growth within the industry, but has also propelled tribal gaming forward, showcasing its resilience and commitment to excellence, Stevens said.
Stevens served as an elected councilman for the Oneida Nation in Wisconsin from 1993 to 1999 and was the first vice president of the Congress of American Indians (NCAI). He also holds board positions with the Center for American Indian Enterprise Development (NCAIED), the Nike N7 Foundation Board, the Executive Board of the Center for Native American Youth (CNAY), and the Native American Advisory Board for the Boys and Girls Club of America (BGCA).
