Washington, DC – The American Gaming Association (AGA) today announced it has hired Erik Balsbaugh to be vice president of public affairs. In this role, Balsbaugh will advance AGA’s day-to-day public affairs efforts, which include aggressive campaigns to change federal sports betting law and to shape the industry’s image as a strong community partner.

“Erik brings sharp campaigns skills and unmatched experience, including working on gaming issues in Massachusetts, that will help AGA and the industry achieve its most important goals over the coming months and years,” said Sara Rayme, senior vice president of public affairs. “Many in the industry already know what Erik is capable of, and we’re excited to welcome him to the AGA team.”   

“I’m thrilled to join the AGA team as this dynamic industry continues to grow and create opportunity across the country,” said Balsbaugh. “I’ve seen the AGA transform into a modern, incredibly effective advocate for the gaming industry, and I look forward to contributing to the good work it’s accomplishing for its diverse, expanding membership.”

Balsbaugh spent the last five years at The Dewey Square Group in Boston, where he managed public relations, electoral and issue campaigns for corporate, non-profit and gaming clients.

In 2014, Balsbaugh led the successful campaign to prevent repeal of the Massachusetts Expanded Gaming Act. He also worked in support of the gaming law in the lead-up to its passage in 2011.

Balsbaugh is the former executive director of the Massachusetts League of Environmental Voters and a veteran of the John Kerry and Hillary Clinton presidential campaigns.

About AGA: The American Gaming Association is the premier national trade group representing the $240 billion U.S. casino industry, which supports 1.7 million jobs in 40 states. AGA members include commercial and tribal casino operators, suppliers and other entities affiliated with the gaming industry. It is the mission of the AGA to be the single most effective champion of the industry, relentlessly protecting against harmful and often misinformed public policies, and paving a path for growth, innovation and reinvestment.