Online gambling apps draw concern from Mescalero Apache Tribe

Mescalero Apache Reservation Vice President Duane Duffy is calling on New Mexico officials to address online sports gambling apps that he says threaten tribal gaming rights, according to Source New Mexico. Duffy told state lawmakers that companies like Kalshi operate under the guise of financial trading to offer online betting, which violates state-tribal gaming compacts.

Duffy said the Mescalero Apache Tribe will seek support from the Legislature and the New Mexico attorney general during the 2025 legislative session. Lauren Rodriguez, chief of staff for the attorney general, confirmed receipt of a letter from gaming tribes. Duffy cited a similar case involving the app Jackpocket, which ceased operations following the attorney general’s determination that it constituted unauthorized internet gaming.