Tribal gaming leaders optimistic about Doug Burgum's nomination as Interior Secretary

Tribal leaders expressed optimism over North Dakota Governor Doug Burgum’s nomination as Secretary of the Interior by incoming President Donald Trump, citing his strong track record of working with Native American tribes and respect for tribal sovereignty. This comes as leaders brace for what could be the biggest online expansion of tribal gaming.

The Department of the Interior plays a critical role in overseeing tribal-state compacts under the Indian Gaming Regulatory Act (IGRA), which governs the $40 billion tribal gaming industry. Burgum’s tenure could coincide with significant expansion in online tribal gaming, following the example of the Seminole Tribe’s groundbreaking compact in Florida.   

Tribal leaders welcomed the announcement, highlighting Burgum’s collaborative approach during his governorship. Standing Rock Sioux Tribe Chairwoman Janet Alkire praised Burgum’s accessibility and commitment to fostering partnerships with North Dakota tribes. “He really understands the relationship with tribes, meets with us regularly, and we can call on him anytime. He just really has a good friendship and partnership with all the tribes in North Dakota,” Alkire told PlayUSA.  

Indian Gaming Association Chairman Ernie Stevens Jr echoed Alkire’s sentiments, calling Burgum’s nomination a “bright spot” for Indian Country. “Gov. Burgum appears to be a bright spot. He’s fair, cordial, and effectively communicates with tribal governments, and that’s all we can ask for in the work we do," Stevens said.  

In 2022, Burgum negotiated gaming compacts with North Dakota tribes amidst legal uncertainties around online gaming under IGRA. While refraining from approving statewide mobile gaming due to pending court challenges, he included provisions allowing tribes to expand into mobile gaming if authorized by state and federal laws.

“With gaming, he understood that things are constantly changing and was always willing to listen and try to make it work,” Alkire noted.  

Despite concerns about potential regulatory rollbacks under the Trump administration, tribal leaders expressed confidence that Burgum would not undermine progress made in modernizing tribal gaming. California Nations Indian Gaming Association (CNIGA) Chairman James Siva emphasized Burgum’s respect for tribal sovereignty. “I don’t have concerns over Burgum undoing the progress made over the last few years as far as tribes moving into online gaming,” Siva said.

Holly Cook Macarro, a tribal advocate in Washington, D.C., called Burgum’s appointment an “inspired choice” and dismissed fears of major policy shifts. “All of Indian Country breathed a sigh of relief and are hopeful to have good relations with Gov. Burgum,” she said.  

Burgum’s appointment comes as outgoing Interior Secretary Deb Haaland and Assistant Secretary Bryan Newland leave behind a legacy of advancing tribal gaming into the digital age. Under their leadership, the department defended the Seminole compact in Florida, paving the way for tribes to incorporate online gaming into compacts.

“I think Secretary Haaland has done a tremendous job, the best she could with the resources and time she had,” said Stevens.  

While tribal gaming modernization may not be Burgum’s primary focus—his expertise lies in energy and mining—tribal leaders remain optimistic that he will build on the momentum established under Haaland.  

“For the potential of rolling back or implementing new regulations, we’ve seen no indication of that yet,” Macarro said.