Controversial Endorsements by Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo
In a striking political move, Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo has come under scrutiny for his endorsements of candidates with controversial histories. These endorsements have sparked debates about his political strategy and the implications for the state’s diverse communities.
A recent report highlighted Lombardo’s active involvement in Republican primaries, where he endorsed candidates known for making racist and bigoted remarks. Notably, Assembly candidate Brandon Davis was supported by Lombardo despite his association with an Islamophobic website targeting his opponent, Assemblywoman-elect Hanadi Nadeem. The website falsely accused Nadeem, a practicing Muslim, of supporting terrorist sympathizers.
State Senator Carrie Buck, another candidate backed by Lombardo, faced accusations of antisemitism after she criticized Jewish Americans who vote for Democrats on social media. Her posts questioned their support for candidates not aligned with certain pro-Israel policies. Buck also controversially compared legal abortion to the Holocaust in April 2023.
Amid these controversies, Nevada State Democratic Party spokesperson Tai Sims stated, “Joe Lombardo and his allies are willing to do and say anything to hang onto power, including aligning with extreme candidates who spew vile and racist comments denigrating Nevada’s diverse communities.” Sims criticized Lombardo for not denouncing the actions or comments of his endorsees.
Political Dynamics and Financial Support
Lombardo’s endorsements were part of a broader strategy to influence legislative outcomes in Nevada. With Democratic majorities in both the House and Senate potentially reaching veto-proof levels in 2024, Lombardo’s associated PACs invested millions in supporting his preferred candidates, including in Republican primaries.
One beneficiary of Lombardo’s support was incumbent Rep. P.K. O’Neill in District 40, for whom Lombardo hosted a fundraiser. O’Neill stirred controversy by dismissing Democratic efforts to promote diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) as “stupid” and suggesting that such initiatives should be spelled “DIE.”
Additionally, Lombardo endorsed state senate candidate John Ellison, who once made a racially insensitive comment regarding his employment practices.
Federal Office Endorsements
Extending his influence beyond state politics, Lombardo backed candidates for federal office. In November, he supported former North Las Vegas Mayor John Lee in his challenge against incumbent U.S. Rep. Steven Horsford. Lee, whose remarks about the Congressional Black Caucus were deemed offensive, failed to win his race.
Despite some losses, Lombardo’s endorsements have had a noticeable impact. While Democrats maintained control of the Nevada legislature, they did not secure the veto-proof majority they sought.
Questions directed to a Lombardo spokesperson about these controversial endorsements went unanswered, leaving many to speculate on the governor’s motivations and future political maneuvers.
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