Nevada Governor Lombardo Launches Reelection Bid, Setting Stage for Competitive 2026 race
LAS VEGAS, NV – September 16, 2024 – Republican Governor Joe Lombardo formally kicked off his reelection campaign Monday, signaling the start of what is expected to be a closely watched gubernatorial race in Nevada. Speaking to supporters at Rancho High School in Las Vegas, Lombardo highlighted accomplishments from his first term, including teacher adn state worker raises, policies aimed at improving school accountability and housing access, and approval of the Campus for Hope.
“For 34 years, I proudly wore the badge of the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department: protecting our streets, standing up for victims, and making sure our communities were safe,” Lombardo stated. “Three years ago, I turned in that badge and asked for your trust and confidence to continue that mission as your governor. That remains my motivation to keep nevada safe, strong, and full of possibility.Now Donna and I would like to ask again for your support to finish the job we started.”
Lombardo also emphasized his frequent use of veto power – a record 160 to date – positioning himself as a check on the Democratic-majority Legislature. “It’s nothing to celebrate as of what that means – it’s bad government, right? I won’t hesitate for a second to say no again, though,” he said.
Lucia Starbuck, a politics reporter with KUNR Public Radio in Reno, noted the popularity of Lombardo’s vetoes among his base. “Thay like that he is standing up to the Democrats,” Starbuck explained. “A couple of things that he has vetoed are the three gun restriction bills that have gone on his desk twice now: people under 21 not to have semi-automatic weapons,guns near election sites,and guns in the hands of people convicted of hate crimes. He vetoed a bill to require paid family leave for private workers. So, it seems like people are happy that he’s using his veto pen pretty, pretty strongly.”
Lombardo will face challenges from at least two Democratic candidates: Attorney General Aaron ford and Washoe County Commissioner Alexis Hill. Experts anticipate the 2026 race will center on key issues including housing, healthcare, economic concerns, and voters’ views on former President Trump.
“housing, health care, how much money they have in their pocket, and, of course, if you want someone who will stand up to Trump, or if you like what Trump’s been doing so far,” Starbuck said, outlining likely focal points of the campaign.
