2026 – GOVERNMENT

Richard Milanovich of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians was a prominent Native American leader, businessman, and advocate for Native American rights. He is best known as the long-serving chairman of the Agua Caliente Band of Cahuilla Indians.

Milanovich’s political career began in 1978, when he was elected to the Agua Caliente Tribal Council. He served as secretary from 1982 to 1984 before being elected chairman in 1984, a position he held for nearly 30 years. Under his leadership, the tribe transformed from a low-profile community into one of the most prosperous Native American groups in the United States.

As chairman, Milanovich spearheaded major developments, including the purchase of the Spa Hotel in 1992, the addition of the Spa Resort Casino in 1995, the construction of the Agua Caliente Casino in 2001, and the $90 million Spa Resort Casino expansion in 2003. These projects boosted the local economy and enabled the tribe to fund education, cultural preservation, housing, and health care programs.

Milanovich was a strong voice for Native American rights, often challenging opposition in Washington D.C. and advocating for tribal sovereignty. He served on numerous boards and committees, including the Advisory Committee to the Office of Special Trustees for the United States Department of the Interior and the Native American Stewardship Committee for the Autry National Center in 2004.

Milanovich was regarded as a courageous, humble, and selfless leader whose vision and perseverance elevated the Agua Caliente Band to national prominence.