John Pappas Steps Down as Poker Players Alliance Executive Director

Following a decade long tenure as Executive Director of the Poker Players Alliance (PPA), John Pappas has decided to step down from his role by month's end. Scroll Down For More..

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Pappas directed the advocacy organization through a trying decade that included arguably poker's darkest day, later dubbed "Black Friday".  On April 15, 2011, two of the PPA's biggest supporters - PokerStars and Full Tilt Poker - were forced out of the U.S. online poker market after main principles were named in a Justice Department indictment.  Full Tilt Poker would later be found to be engaging in an elaborate ponzi scheme.

“There has never been greater momentum than right now for the advancement of sensible internet gaming policy in the U.S. Whether lawmakers are considering poker, casino gambling or even sports betting, a strong and organized grassroots effort will be critical to legislative success. I am proud of the work I have done with the PPA board of directors and the amazing PPA staff to bring us to this point. I will miss working for the poker community on a day-to-day basis, but I am confident that the PPA will continue its great work with Rich Muny at the helm,” said John Pappas.

“John is a tremendous leader and a true professional. Under his guidance, PPA has emerged as a policy advocacy and the grassroots powerhouse in Washington D.C. and in state capitals across the country. For almost a decade, he has been the political voice and face of the poker community and regulated internet gaming advocates. He leaves the organization in a strong position to continue to ensure that consumer voices drive the internet gaming debate,” stated the PPA’s longest serving board member and former chair, Poker Hall of Famer Linda Johnson.

Current Vice President Rich Muny will take over the position of PPA President.

- Ace King, Gambling911.com