Lombardo’s Vetoes Favor Donors Over Lowering Costs for Nevadans

Controversial Vetoes and Campaign Contributions: Examining Governor Lombardo’s Decisions

As the Nevada legislative session of 2025 kicks off, attention shifts to the Assembly floor where Governor Joe Lombardo’s veto messages from 2023 are set to be scrutinized. These messages have sparked debate over Lombardo’s decisions, particularly concerning legislation aimed at reducing housing and prescription drug costs. Here’s an exploration of the underlying issues and influences.

Lombardo’s gubernatorial campaign received substantial funding from a billionaire linked to real estate. Subsequently, Lombardo vetoed several bills that promised to alleviate housing expenses for numerous Nevada families. In a move that raised eyebrows, he also appointed a former lobbyist, associated with a corporate landlord benefiting from these vetoes, as his chief of staff. More details on the vetoes can be found here.

The pharmaceutical industry’s influence on Lombardo’s decisions has also been a point of contention. According to a report, after vetoing a bill intended to lower Medicare-negotiated prescription drug prices, Lombardo garnered nearly $100,000 in contributions from major drug companies. Before this veto, which mirrored numerous industry arguments, his campaign had only seen $11,000 from pharmaceutical sources.

Lombardo’s approach to campaign funding has been further scrutinized due to the establishment of his inaugural committee as a dark money entity. This decision broke with a longstanding bipartisan tradition of transparency regarding inaugural donors. His veto of SB60, which mandated the disclosure of such donors, was justified by Lombardo as needing broader application. However, critics argue that the bill was already designed to encompass all statewide offices.

Lombardo’s vetoes extended beyond housing and pharmaceuticals, including a notable decision against guaranteed school meals for all students. These actions, coupled with his funding strategies, suggest a prioritization of special interest groups and political gain over cost reduction for Nevada residents.

Nevada State Democratic Party spokesperson Tai Sims:

“No veto message excuse can change the facts: Joe Lombardo vetoed legislation that would have lowered costs for Nevadans and in return received donations for his upcoming campaign.”

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