Ernie Stevens Jr. Reelected for 12th Term in IGA

Ever wonder how Indian gaming soared from $11 billion to over $49.1 billion? Ernie Stevens Jr. just won his 12th term as Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association. He vows to keep elevating tribal voices. You want assurance that tribal sovereignty remains strong while gaming revenues flourish. Read on to discover how Stevens’s unwavering leadership promises growth, unity, and forward momentum for Indian Country.

Ernie Stevens Jr. Secures 12th Term: How One Visionary Continues Transforming Tribal Gaming

3 Key Points

1. Historic 12th Term. Ernie Stevens Jr. remains a steadfast champion of tribal sovereignty and gaming success.
2. Revenue Milestones. Tribal gaming revenues skyrocketed from $11 billion in 2000 to $49.1 billion in 2024.
3. Longstanding Advocacy. Stevens’s involvement spans from the Oneida Nation Council to major boards that support Native progress.

Ernie Stevens Jr. has officially secured his 12th term as Chairman of the Indian Gaming Association (IGA). Running unopposed, he received unanimous support from tribal leaders. This re-election took place on the final day of the 2025 Indian Gaming Tradeshow and Convention in San Diego, California.

Stevens expressed deep gratitude to those who placed their trust in him. He emphasized his unwavering commitment, calling his work a constant “campaign” guided by tribal leadership. He praised the resilience and unity of tribes nationwide, crediting them for helping advance the gaming sector’s positive impact on local economies.

His track record speaks volumes. When Stevens first took office, tribal gaming revenues were around $11 billion. By 2024, they had topped $49.1 billion, solidifying Tribal Government Gaming as the largest segment of the U.S. gaming industry. This surge reflects a relentless focus on economic development, tribal sovereignty, and community-driven initiatives.

In his acceptance remarks, Stevens promised not to let up. He announced plans to move forward on a proactive agenda that defends tribal interests. He also pledged to keep advocating for robust regulatory structures that protect both operators and players. He emphasized that this approach not only benefits individual tribes but also promotes a healthier national gaming environment.

Marquee projects loom on the horizon. With the IGA celebrating its 40th anniversary, Stevens hopes to commemorate this milestone by cementing a legacy of unity and collaboration. He said that ongoing challenges—like legal battles, regulatory hurdles, and economic disparity—require collective resolve. He sees tribal gaming as a catalyst for job creation, educational programs, and community welfare.

Before rising to the IGA’s top position, Stevens served as a councilman for the Oneida Nation in Wisconsin from 1993 to 1999. He also served as first vice president of the National Congress of American Indians (NCAI). These experiences sharpened his advocacy skills. He believes in combining grassroots action with high-level policy discussions.

His extensive board memberships underline his influence beyond gaming. Stevens sits on the board of the Center for American Indian Enterprise Development (NCAIED) and the Nike N7 Foundation Board. He also holds positions with 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). Through these platforms, he aims to address issues ranging from youth empowerment to entrepreneurial growth.

As tribal gaming evolves, so do the demands on the IGA. Stevens sees emerging technologies like mobile betting, esports, and virtual reality as both opportunities and potential pitfalls. He wants to ensure that tribal entities have the proper legal frameworks, regulatory guidance, and entrepreneurial freedom to explore these markets responsibly.

Despite the industry’s remarkable revenue climb, Stevens remains vigilant. He acknowledges that external pressures—such as competing commercial casinos, shifting consumer behaviors, and political headwinds—could disrupt progress. Yet, he believes tribal unity and consistent advocacy can overcome these hurdles.

Many in Indian Country feel confident about the IGA’s future. They see Stevens’s leadership as vital to maintaining a strong collective voice. They trust that his ongoing efforts will help tribes remain at the forefront of policy discussions, thereby fortifying their gaming operations and community initiatives.

Ernie Stevens Jr.’s re-election for a 12th term highlights his unwavering dedication to tribal sovereignty and gaming prosperity. Under his guidance, the Indian Gaming Association has championed record-breaking revenue growth and strategic advocacy. As tribal governments navigate an evolving gaming landscape, Stevens promises robust leadership, ensuring that tribal interests remain paramount.