Nevada GOP Gov. Lombardo projected to face Democrat Ford in highly competitive race

Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo will face Democrat Aaron Ford in November. Lombardo, a Republican, and Ford, the state's attorney general, won their respective primaries, setting the stage for a highly competitive race. The contest is expected to be a toss-up, with the Cook Political Report rating it as such, and the Democratic Governors' Association identifying Nevada as a top target.

The Nevada gubernatorial race has significant implications, not only for the state but also for the national political landscape. As one of the most competitive races in the country, it will be closely watched by both parties. The outcome will depend on various factors, including the candidates' ability to connect with voters, the state of the economy, and the impact of national issues such as immigration and tariffs.

Ford, who has been the state's attorney general since 2019, has built a reputation as a fierce advocate for Democratic values. He has signed onto numerous lawsuits against the Trump administration, including those related to immigration, healthcare, and the environment. This experience will likely be a key aspect of his campaign, as he seeks to unseat Lombardo and become the state's next governor.

Lombardo, on the other hand, has been governor since 2022, when he won a narrow victory over his Democratic opponent. As governor, he has faced significant challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic and its impact on the state's economy. Despite these challenges, Lombardo has remained popular among many Republicans, who see him as a strong leader who can help the state recover from the pandemic.

The economy will be a crucial issue in the upcoming election, particularly in the tourism sector. Nevada's economy is heavily dependent on tourism, which has been severely impacted by the pandemic and related lockdowns. According to recent data, tourism in Las Vegas, the state's largest city, declined by 7.5% in 2025, the largest drop since 1970. This decline has had a significant impact on the state's economy, with many businesses struggling to stay afloat.

The decline in tourism has also been exacerbated by the Trump administration's policies, including tariffs and immigration restrictions. These policies have made it more difficult for international visitors to come to the United States, which has had a significant impact on Nevada's tourism industry. Canadians, who account for half of Las Vegas' foreign tourism, have been particularly affected, with visits declining by 17% in 2025.

As the campaign heats up, both candidates will need to address these issues and convince voters that they have the best plan for the state's economy. Ford will likely focus on his experience as attorney general, highlighting his efforts to challenge the Trump administration's policies and protect the state's interests. Lombardo, on the other hand, will need to defend his record as governor, including his response to the pandemic and his efforts to boost the state's economy.

The upcoming election will also be influenced by national issues, including the presidency. President Trump's policies have had a significant impact on Nevada, and his popularity in the state will likely be a factor in the gubernatorial race. Trump won the state by three points in 2024, and his supporters will likely be a key demographic for Lombardo to target.

In addition to the economy and national issues, the candidates will also need to address other important topics, including healthcare, education, and the environment. Ford has already begun to highlight his differences with Lombardo on these issues, including his support for expanded healthcare access and increased funding for education. Lombardo, on the other hand, has emphasized his commitment to reducing taxes and promoting business growth.

As the campaign enters its final stages, both candidates will need to mobilize their supporters and convince undecided voters to back their candidacy. The outcome of the election will depend on a variety of factors, including the candidates' ability to connect with voters, the state of the economy, and the impact of national issues. One thing is certain, however: the Nevada gubernatorial race will be one of the most closely watched and competitive contests in the country.

Rebecca Gill, a political science professor at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas, believes that Lombardo will face an "uphill battle" in November. "Nevada has voted for Democrats in most presidential elections since 2008, and the state has two Democratic senators," she notes. "However, the state's economy is heavily dependent on tourism, which was decimated by the pandemic and its lockdowns, leading Nevadans to vote Lombardo into office as governor in 2022."

Gill's comments highlight the complexities of the Nevada electorate, which can be difficult to predict. While Democrats have traditionally performed well in the state, the pandemic and its aftermath have created a sense of uncertainty and unpredictability. As a result, both candidates will need to be prepared to adapt to changing circumstances and respond to the concerns of voters.

In the end, the outcome of the Nevada gubernatorial race will depend on a variety of factors, including the candidates' ability to connect with voters, the state of the economy, and the impact of national issues. As one of the most competitive races in the country, it will be closely watched by both parties, and its outcome will have significant implications for the state and the nation.