Long-serving Tribal Gaming Chief Ernie Stevens Jr. Dies at 66
Summary
Ernie Stevens Jr., longtime chairman of the Indian Gaming Association (IGA) and member of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, died on 26 September 2025 at age 66. He led the IGA for almost 25 years and presided over a period when tribal gaming revenues grew from $11 billion in 2000 to $44 billion in 2024, making it the largest segment of the US gaming industry.
Stevens was widely respected as a mentor, advocate and unifying leader who championed tribal sovereignty, strong oversight and economic self-reliance. He was reelected to his 13th term in April 2025 and held roles across tribal organisations and national boards supporting youth, economic development and community health. The Oneida Nation will hold a wake on 3 October and a funeral on 4 October; flags will be flown at half-staff. He is survived by his wife Cheryl, five children and 20 grandchildren.
Key Points
- Stevens chaired the Indian Gaming Association for nearly 25 years and won a 13th term in 2025.
- During his tenure tribal gaming revenues rose from $11bn (2000) to $44bn (2024).
- He was a prominent lobbyist in Washington, fighting for tribal sovereignty and economic independence.
- Stevens served on the Oneida Nation council and held senior roles with the National Congress of American Indians and other bodies.
- The Oneida Nation will hold a wake on 3 October and a funeral on 4 October; flags lowered to half-staff until services conclude.
- He leaves behind a large family and a legacy that colleagues say will continue to shape tribal gaming and policy advocacy.
Context and Relevance
Stevens helped transform tribal gaming into a dominant force in the US gambling market and was central to federal-tribal policy discussions. His leadership influenced oversight practices, lobbying strategy and how tribal nations use gaming revenue to support services and self-determination. His death is relevant to anyone tracking US gaming trends, indigenous governance or federal policymaking because it may prompt leadership shifts and changes in advocacy approaches.
Why should I read this?
Short and blunt: this bloke helped turn tribal gaming into a $44bn sector and was the go-to voice for tribes in Washington for decades. If you follow US gaming, indigenous affairs or industry policy, you’ll want to know what he did, who he leaves behind, and how his absence could change the scene — plus the funeral details if you need them. We’ve read it so you don’t have to.
