NAFOA Supports Nomination of Patrice Kunesh as National Indian Gaming Commission Chair

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NAFOA provides draft letters for tribal leaders to support Patrice Kunesh’s nomination

Patrice Kunesh at the 2019 NAFOA Fall Finance and Tribal Economies Conference.

Late last month, President Joe Biden nominated Patrice H. Kunesh to serve as Chair of the National Indian Gaming Commission (NIGC). NAFOA supports Kunesh’s nomination, recognizing her extensive background in tribal economic development, law, and public policy.

A descendant of the Standing Rock Sioux Tribe, Kunesh has built a distinguished career dedicated to enhancing the lives of Native American communities. Her work spans various roles in tribal organizations, tribal governments, and federal agencies, reflecting her unwavering commitment to the advancement of Indian Country. Currently, she serves as Commissioner of the Administration for Native Americans (ANA) within the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, a position she began following her Senate confirmation in March 2023.

Kunesh’s extensive legal career includes serving as a staff attorney for the Native American Rights Fund, providing legal counsel for the Mashantucket Pequot Tribal Nation, and working as Deputy Solicitor at the U.S. Department of the Interior. She also served as the founding Director of the Center for Indian Country Development at the Federal Reserve Bank of Minneapolis. Her contributions in these roles have been instrumental in fostering economic growth and development in tribal communities.

NAFOA President Rodney Butler, Chairman of the Mashantucket Pequot Tribe, offered the following statement regarding the nomination: “Patrice Kunesh’s nomination holds great potential for the Indian gaming industry and tribal economies. Her deep understanding of tribal issues and proven leadership will contribute significantly to the National Indian Gaming Commission’s mission. We are optimistic that her appointment will have a profound impact on Indian Country and are eager to witness her leadership in this crucial role.”

NAFOA urges the U.S. Senate to swiftly confirm Patrice Kunesh’s nomination as Chair of the National Indian Gaming Commission. Her leadership will be instrumental in advancing the regulatory framework governing Indian gaming and strengthening tribal sovereignty.

NAFOA is providing a draft letter for tribal leaders to send to Senate Committee on Indian Affairs Chair Senator Brian Schatz (D-HI) and Vice Chair Senator Lisa Murkowski (R-AK), expressing support for Kunesh’s nomination.

Download the template letter

For any other questions or concerns, please contact info@nafoa.org.

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