Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo Launches Reelection Campaign Amid Redistricting and Economic Challenges

Strategic Insights -

Republican Governor Joe Lombardo officially kicked off his reelection campaign at Rancho High School, his alma mater, on Monday evening. Surrounded by supporters, including Latin Chamber of Commerce CEO Peter Guzman and former Lt. Gov. Mark Hutchison, Lombardo emphasized his record of blocking the "radical agenda" of Democrats in Carson City. Hutchison highlighted Lombardo's record-breaking 87 vetoes this past legislative session, citing the governor's commitment to preventing a one-party rule in Nevada. Lombardo's campaign focuses on creating jobs, investing in education and housing, and blocking what he terms as Democrats' "radical agenda."

Key Takeaways:

  • Lombardo's campaign launch comes as Democrats are coalescing around Attorney General Aaron Ford as their pick for governor.
  • The Nevada GOP has endorsed Lombardo, citing his leadership in setting the state on a path to prosperity.
  • Lombardo has a 53% approval rating, 21 points above the 32% of Nevadans who disapprove, according to Morning Consult.
  • The University of Virginia's Center for Politics lists the Nevada gubernatorial race as leaning Republican.
  • Lombardo's focus on jobs was instrumental in garnering the support of the LiUNA construction union members at the campaign event.
  • Tommy White, secretary treasurer of Laborers Local 872, expressed support for Lombardo, citing his record of creating jobs and building a movie studio.
  • Nevada Democrats countered Lombardo's announcement with their own campaign event, criticizing the governor's handling of the housing crisis and high unemployment rate.
  • State Sen. Dina Neal pointed to the state's 5.4% unemployment rate and high number of vacant jobs as evidence of Lombardo's failures.
  • Mothership Coffee CEO Juanny Romero criticized Lombardo's support for President Donald Trump's trade war, whichshe says has driven Las Vegas' depressed tourism numbers and increased coffee prices.
  • Lombardo addressed the state's unemployment rate, calling it "unacceptable" and promising to continue investing in workforce training and cutting-edge solutions.

Statistics:

  • 87 vetoes cast by Governor Lombardo this past legislative session, a record-breaking number.
  • 53% approval rating for Governor Lombardo, 21 points above the 32% of Nevadans who disapprove (Morning Consult).
  • 5.4% unemployment rate in Nevada (mentioned by Gov. Lombardo and State Sen. Dina Neal).
  • 21 points separating Gov. Lombardo's approval rating from the disapproval rating (Morning Consult).
  • 53:47 popular vote margin by which Gov. Lombardo won the 2022 election.

Sources:

  • Kyle Chouinard, "Lombardo kicks off reelection campaign with focus on jobs, vetoes," Las Vegas Sun (September 15, 2025).
  • Assembly Republican Caucus, "Assembly Republicans Back Governor Lombardo for Reelection" (September 15, 2025).
  • Morning Consult, "Governor Joe Lombardo Approval Rating" (n.d.).
  • University of Virginia's Center for Politics, "Nevada Gubernatorial Election" (n.d.).