Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo formally announced his bid for reelection Monday, setting the stage for a potentially pivotal 2026 gubernatorial race. Speaking before a crowd of supporters at Rancho High School in Las Vegas, the Republican governor emphasized public safety and economic opportunity as cornerstones of his continued leadership.
Lombardo’s reelection campaign launches as Nevada is considered a key battleground state, and his race is already drawing national attention. The Cook Political Report recently rated the Nevada governor’s race a ”toss-up,” identifying Lombardo as a vulnerable incumbent. His decision too seek a second term positions him for a high-profile contest wiht potential implications for the balance of power in the state and beyond.
The governor framed his campaign as a continuation of his commitment to Nevada, echoing his transition from a career in law enforcement. “Three years ago, I turned in [my] badge and asked for your trust and confidence to continue that mission as your governor,” Lombardo stated. “That remains my motivation to keep Nevada safe, strong, and full of opportunity.” He highlighted his first term accomplishments and requested renewed support to “finish the job we started.”
Lombardo also pointed to his record of 160 vetoes during his first term, framing them as necesary checks on legislation passed by the Democratic-majority Legislature. “It’s nothing to celebrate as of what that means, it’s bad government,” he said, adding he would continue to oppose bills he deems detrimental to the state.
Currently, Lombardo faces challenges from two Democratic candidates: State Attorney General Aaron Ford and Washoe County Commissioner Alexis Hill. The 2026 election is expected to be closely watched as a bellwether for national political trends and a test of Lombardo’s ability to navigate a politically divided state.
