The California Nations Indian Gaming Association brought James Siva back as chairman on December 16. He ran without opposition.
Siva currently serves as vice chairman for the Morongo Band of Mission Indians. The association represents 57 tribal nations across California.
Isaiah Vivanco also won re-election as treasurer. Nobody challenged his position either. Vivanco chairs the Soboba Band of Luiseno Indians when he’s not working with CNIGA.
The executive committee saw multiple returning faces. Vice Chairman Mike Lopez and Secretary Crystal Chalk both kept their roles. Regional representatives also secured new terms across the state.
Why this leadership continuity matters for tribal gaming
CNIGA’s membership has grown steadily over recent years. Most of California’s federally recognised tribes now belong to the association.
Siva pointed to this expansion in his post-election statement. “I’m pleased that our membership has grown over the past few years to now include the majority of California’s federally recognised tribes,” he said.
The unopposed elections signal member satisfaction with current leadership direction. Tribal representatives didn’t field alternative candidates for key positions. That’s not something you see when members want change.
Vivanco highlighted the connection between organisational work and tribal sovereignty. Gaming rights stem from sovereign tribal status, which makes protecting those rights central to CNIGA’s mission. “I am very honoured and humbled to continue my service to CNIGA and look forward to furthering the work of securing tribal sovereign rights and advancing our industry, which is derived from those very rights,” he said.
What happened during the December elections
Regional representatives also secured new terms. Jack Potter, who chairs the Redding Rancheria Tribe, won re-election.
Joshua Muse and Chris Creasey did too. Muse serves as vice chairman for the Sycuan Band of Kumeyaay Nation. His regional role adds another layer to his tribal leadership responsibilities.
The Northern District at-large spot stayed with Dale Miller. Michael Vasquez held onto the Central District at-large position. These votes took place during CNIGA’s annual meeting.
The association gathered its tribal members for standard governance procedures. All elections followed established protocols.
How the leadership plans to move forward
Siva outlined specific goals for his continued tenure. Growing the organisation through inclusivity topped his list.
“My goal is to continue to grow our organisation through inclusivity and continue to work toward unity of purpose to defend the sovereign rights of all federally recognised tribal governments,” Siva said after the vote.
The chairman emphasised unity among California’s tribes. CNIGA aims to present a coordinated front on sovereignty issues. That coordination becomes more important as regulatory pressure increases across gaming sectors.
Siva expressed gratitude for the membership’s trust. “I am deeply grateful that the membership of CNIGA has placed their trust in me to continue to lead this dynamic and growing organisation,” he said.
The executive committee’s preserved makeup suggests stability for California’s tribal gaming sector. Leadership transitions often bring uncertainty. This election avoided that complication entirely.
