The Lombardo Machine and the Influence of Gov. Joe Lombardo
Election season is officially underway for state legislators, and while Gov. Joe Lombardo is not up for reelection, his presence will undoubtedly be felt throughout this year’s election cycle. Political observers believe that his influence could potentially impact the outcome of several races, ultimately determining whether he maintains veto power over the Nevada State Legislature.
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As a Republican governor, Lombardo has embraced the narrative that he is Nevada’s last line of defense against unfettered Democratic control. In fact, he holds the distinction of issuing the most gubernatorial vetoes during a single legislative session, a fact that he proudly acknowledges. Lombardo has made it clear that he is doing everything in his power to prevent Democrats from gaining supermajorities in both chambers of the legislature.
The Importance of Supermajorities
Currently, Democrats hold 13 out of the 21 seats in the Nevada Senate, falling just one seat short of a supermajority. If they were to gain a supermajority, Democrats would have the ability to override any gubernatorial veto, significantly limiting Lombardo’s power. With 10 of the seats up for reelection this year, the balance of power in the Senate hangs in the balance.
In order to achieve a supermajority, Democrats would need to maintain their control over the six seats they currently hold and flip at least one of the four Republican seats. This makes the upcoming election crucial for both parties, as the outcome could potentially shift the balance of power in the Senate and impact the ability to pass legislation.
Lombardo’s Strategy
Given the significance of this election cycle, Gov. Joe Lombardo is expected to be actively involved in supporting Republican candidates and promoting their campaigns. His endorsement and financial support can carry significant weight, especially in closely contested races.
Lombardo has already made it clear that he will be working to prevent Democrats from gaining supermajorities in both chambers. His strategy will likely involve rallying Republican voters, highlighting the potential consequences of Democratic control, and emphasizing the need for a balance of power.
Additionally, Lombardo’s reputation as a strong conservative leader and his track record of vetoing Democratic-backed legislation will certainly be points of emphasis during the campaign. Republicans will likely highlight his role in protecting Nevada from what they perceive as excessive government intervention and unchecked Democratic policies.
The Impact of Lombardo’s Influence
With his strong stance against Democratic control and his reputation as a veto-wielding governor, Gov. Joe Lombardo’s influence could prove pivotal in the upcoming election. His endorsement and support can provide a significant boost to Republican candidates, helping to sway undecided voters and energize the party base.
Furthermore, Lombardo’s efforts to prevent Democrats from gaining supermajorities could shape the legislative landscape in Nevada for years to come. By maintaining veto power, he can effectively block legislation that he deems detrimental to the state or its citizens.
As the election season progresses, all eyes will be on the races that will determine the balance of power in the Nevada State Legislature. Gov. Joe Lombardo’s involvement and influence will undoubtedly be a major factor in shaping the outcome, and his commitment to preventing Democratic supermajorities will resonate with Republican voters.
While Lombardo may not be up for reelection himself, his presence and influence will be felt throughout the election cycle. Political observers and voters alike will be watching closely to see how his strategy unfolds and whether his efforts to maintain balance in the legislature are successful.