Danielle Ford Placed Fifth in Poker Tournament
The gubernatorial candidate finished behind winner Tamar Berkowitz at an October 3 charity event.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Gambling
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Independent gubernatorial candidate Danielle Ford placed fifth in the Every Hand Makes a Difference poker tournament held on October 3. The event served as a fundraiser for the Junior League of Las Vegas.
Why it matters
Ford, who plays the game as a meditative stress relief, participated as a guest bounty in the tournament. Her performance comes one month before the November 3, 2026, Nevada gubernatorial election.
Tournament winner Tamar Berkowitz took home the $2,000 top prize after defeating Ryan Riess in a heads-up match. Ford, who finished fifth, received two Vegas Golden Knights tickets for her performance.
The players
Danielle Ford
An independent candidate for governor of Nevada who participated in the tournament.
Tamar Berkowitz
The winner of the tournament who claimed the $2,000 top prize.
Ryan Riess
The tournament runner-up who finished in second place.
Junior League of Las Vegas
The local nonprofit organization that served as the beneficiary for the poker tournament.
The details
The Charity Series of Poker hosted the tournament to benefit the Junior League of Las Vegas. Tamar Berkowitz secured the win after a final heads-up round against Ryan Riess. Danielle Ford, currently running for governor, joined the tables as a guest bounty.
Timeline
October 3, 2026: The Charity Series of Poker event was held.
November 3, 2026: The Nevada gubernatorial election takes place.
Beyond the Strip
This event continues the series of Charity Series of Poker tournaments held to support valley nonprofits. It follows a recurring pattern of local figures participating in community-focused gaming events.
Residents should mark their calendars for the upcoming gubernatorial election on November 3, 2026. Those interested in supporting the Junior League of Las Vegas can look for future charity event schedules on their website.
The takeaway
While the tournament provided a brief respite for a political candidate, voters should focus on the upcoming election cycle. Keep an eye on the November 3 ballot as the gubernatorial race progresses.
Further reading
For more on the local gaming scene, see Gambling.
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Do you find it more appealing when a political candidate participates in public hobby events?
