Ernie Stevens Jr. died on Friday at the age of 66 Stevens had led the Indian Gaming Association since 2000 The Indian Gaming Association (IGA) lost its longtime leader on Friday, as Ernie Stevens Jr. died suddenly at the age of 66. Ernie Stevens Jr. speaks at the 2025 Indian Gaming Tradeshow & Convention. Stevens died suddenly on Friday, Sept. 26, 2025. (Image: Indian Gaming Association) Among the most powerful figures not only in tribal gaming but the US gaming industry as a whole, Stevens led the IGA for more than two decades. A member of the Oneida Nation of Wisconsin, Stevens was elected to chair the Indian Gaming Association in 2000. In April, he was reelected to a 13th term in the critical position. Ernie Stevens Jr. was more than a chairman — he was a warrior, a statesman, and a champion for all of Indian Country. His vision and commitment built bridges across tribal nations, Congress, and federal…Read MoreCategory: Tribal Gaming, Ernie Stevens, IGA, Indian Gaming Association, tribal casino, Tribal gamingSource: Casino.org