In a bid to advance the agenda of “promoting tribal economic development” and “curtailing the risks associated with new technological advancements in the gambling industry,” the nominee for the chair of the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC) under President Joe Biden, Patrice Kunesh, faced a preliminary confirmation hearing on Wednesday. Testifying before the Senate Committee on Indian Affairs, Kunesh expressed her unwavering dedication to the role, addressing various inquiries about tribal economics, Indian gaming, and tribal self-determination during the approximately 45-minute session. While the committee did not cast a vote, it was evident that Kunesh had the support of the members for her nomination to the NIGC.
If approved by the committee, Kunesh’s nomination to the NIGC will then proceed to a confirmation by the full US Senate. Committee chairman Brian Schatz introduced Kunesh as a “proven leader who can and will achieve these goals,” noting the overwhelming backing from numerous tribes through letters endorsing her nomination.
Kunesh’s potential appointment would see her taking over from Sequoyah Simermeyer, who vacated the position in February to join FanDuel. Sharon Avery has been serving as the acting chair since May. In her initial address, Kunesh outlined three key focal points that she would address upon confirmation.
“First,” she articulated, “would be fulfilling the mission of NIGC in promoting tribal economic development and maintaining the critical integrity of the gaming industry. Second, I would endeavor to mitigate risks within the influx of new technologies and gaming formats including online gaming and artificial intelligence. Third, I would be committed to good governance practices within the NIGC and ensure that NIGC has sufficient resources to fulfill its mission.”
During the hearing, senators delved into a wide range of topics, from overseeing the vast $49.1 billion Indian gaming industry to combating the issue of human trafficking. Vice-chairman Lisa Murkowski probed Kunesh extensively on the matter of human trafficking, to which Kunesh acknowledged that there are information gaps concerning the “intersections” of gaming and human trafficking, expressing her intent to delve deeper into the issue.
She emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety and security of gaming establishments, stressing the need to prevent illegal activities like human trafficking and provide support to survivors. With regards to Indian gaming, Kunesh pledged to “understand the dynamics and pressures on” the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act, the federal law that governs gambling activities in Indian Country.
Currently serving as the commissioner of the Administration for Native Americans, Kunesh has previously held executive positions at the Native American Rights Fund, Pehin Haha Consulting, and the Federal Bank of Minnesota. As a descendant of the Standing Rock Lakota tribe, Kunesh brings a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the issues facing Native communities to the potential role of NIGC chair.
