Tribes must navigate changes from Trump for gaming and beyond

The potential reality of a second Trump administration raises significant concerns for various sectors within Indian Country, particularly regarding Indian gaming, as discussed in a recent webinar hosted by the Indian Gaming Association (IGA) on February 5th.

This insightful session featured IGA’s conference chair Victor Rocha, executive director Jason Giles, former association chairman Ernest Stevens Jr., and journalist Mark Trahant. Together, they explored the likely impacts of the Trump administration on Indian affairs and the gaming landscape over the next four years.

Anticipated Impacts on Indian Gaming

The discussion commenced with the recent appointment of North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum as Secretary of the Interior, a pivotal role concerning Indian policies. Rocha noted that while Burgum is “not the worst we could do” regarding tribal rights, his track record with online gaming poses concerns. In late 2022, Burgum signed compacts with state tribes that denied them digital wagering exclusivity, signaling a cautious approach to the burgeoning online gaming sector.

Rocha expressed a somber prediction regarding federal oversight, suggesting that the new administration may be inclined to restrict approvals for tribal casinos. “Expect no more land into trust and no more off-reservation gaming,” he stated, referencing the Trump administration’s potential to revoke recent approvals made during the Biden administration—particularly those concerning off-reservation casino projects, which historically faced significant hurdles.

Trahant added that this trend of potential obstruction may continue, particularly if there is a perception of a conflict of interest, as seen in Florida’s recent legislative maneuvers. GOP lawmakers declined to hold a special session to discuss a ban on signature-gathering companies, a move some speculate might obstruct Trump’s own prospective casino developments in the state.

The Illegal Gambling Market and Federal Uncertainty

Giles underscored the urgent need for federal support to combat the growing illegal gambling market, particularly the rise of sweepstakes sites in California and other regions. The National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC)—the principal regulatory agency for Indian gaming—has been without a confirmed chair for over a year, following the departure of Sequoyah Simermeyer. This lack of leadership hampers the ability to enforce regulations effectively.

Trahant emphasized the economic importance of tribal gaming and its impact on employment, arguing that lawmakers’ focus seems disproportionately directed towards attracting corporate giants like Microsoft and Tesla, rather than addressing the pressing issues facing tribal governments. Stevens echoed the need for strategic patience, advising, “We must hunker down and fight intelligently. We can’t afford to act as if the problems will resolve themselves.”

Historical Context of Federal Challenges

Drawing comparisons with historical precedents, Trahant referenced the influence of business tycoons like John D. Rockefeller in the early 20th century and the detrimental impact on Native peoples during that era. He noted that previous administrations, such as Nixon’s, initiated policies aimed at reducing the size of the federal government, facing more resistance than what is seen today.

Advocacy and Education for Indian Country

Stevens passionately argued for the necessity of education advocacy within tribal communities. He lamented the funding struggles that tribal colleges and universities face, which are exacerbated by recent disruptions from the pandemic. Emphasizing his own lineage of activism, he insisted that tribal leaders must assertively protect what benefits their communities. “Leadership needs to take the reins and navigate our path,” he stated emphatically.

At the recent ICE Barcelona conference, Stevens presented on the tribal gaming industry’s potential, promoting the message that tribes remain “open for business.” He urged Indian Country to leverage their gaming successes to diversify economically while maintaining vigilance against sovereignty encroachments. “If you start throwing haymakers, that’s how you get knocked out,” he advised. “But you gotta throw something.”