Published: December 31, 2025 | NevadaAffairs.com
As Nevada rings in 2026, Governor Joe Lombardo stands at a pivotal moment in his career. The Republican incumbent, who flipped the governor’s office in a narrow 2022 upset, is now campaigning for a second term in what promises to be one of the nation’s most competitive races. From his early years in a military family to his decades in law enforcement and his current role leading the Silver State, Lombardo’s journey reflects a blend of service, toughness, and pragmatism.
Early Life and Military Beginnings
Joseph Michael Lombardo was born on November 8, 1962, in Sapporo, Japan, where his father served in the U.S. Air Force. Growing up in a military family, Lombardo spent his childhood moving around the world before the family settled in Las Vegas when his father was stationed at Nellis Air Force Base.
In 1976, the family put down roots in Southern Nevada. Lombardo attended Rancho High School in North Las Vegas, graduating in 1980. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in civil engineering from the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV), followed by a Master of Science in crisis management from the same university. He also completed the FBI National Academy’s 227th session in 2006.
After high school, Lombardo enlisted in the U.S. Army, later serving in the Nevada National Guard and Army Reserve. His military experience instilled a sense of discipline and public service that would define his career.
A Distinguished Career in Law Enforcement
In 1988, Lombardo joined the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department (LVMPD), embarking on a 34-year career in law enforcement. He rose through the ranks, serving in nearly every capacity—from patrol officer and detective to assistant sheriff.
Notably, Lombardo gained national attention for leading the LVMPD’s response to the 2017 Route 91 Harvest festival shooting, the deadliest mass shooting in U.S. history. His handling of the crisis earned praise for transparency and coordination.
In 2014, Lombardo was elected Clark County Sheriff, overseeing a department with 6,000 employees and a $1.3 billion budget. He focused on community policing, public safety, and managing the challenges of protecting millions of residents and tourists in Nevada’s largest county. Reelected in 2018, he served until stepping down to run for governor.
Entry into Politics: The 2022 Gubernatorial Upset
Lombardo announced his gubernatorial candidacy in June 2021, positioning himself as a law-and-order Republican with crossover appeal in a purple state. Endorsed by former President Donald Trump, he won a crowded Republican primary, defeating former U.S. Senator Dean Heller and others.
In the general election, Lombardo faced incumbent Democratic Governor Steve Sisolak. Campaigning on economic diversification, education reform, school choice, and restoring “law and order,” Lombardo narrowly defeated Sisolak 48.8% to 47.3%—becoming the only Republican to unseat a Democratic incumbent governor in 2022 and breaking Democrats’ trifecta control of state government.
Sworn in on January 2, 2023, as Nevada’s 31st governor, Lombardo promised to cut red tape, invest in education, and tackle public safety.
Governorship: Achievements, Vetoes, and Challenges (2023–2025)
Lombardo’s tenure has been marked by bipartisan successes amid partisan gridlock. He signed historic investments in education, including teacher raises and accountability measures, and supported housing initiatives, authorizing over $1 billion in bonding for affordable rentals and homeownership programs. Projects like the “Campus for Hope” for homelessness services and efforts to release federal land for housing highlight his focus on affordability.
On public safety, Lombardo pushed tougher crime policies, though some bills stalled in the Democrat-controlled Legislature. He signed abortion protections into law, aligning with Nevada’s voter-approved rights, despite describing himself as personally pro-life.
Controversies include record-setting vetoes: 75 in 2023 and 87 in 2025, blocking measures on paid family leave, IVF coverage, and others seen as burdensome to businesses. Critics point to ongoing economic pressures—Nevada’s high unemployment (second only to California at times)—and a major state cyberattack. Supporters credit him with filling state job vacancies via executive orders and promoting economic growth.
Polls in late 2025 show mixed approval: around 51–53% approve, with vulnerabilities on the economy and among Latino voters.
The 2026 Reelection Campaign: “Finish What We Started”
On September 15, 2025, Lombardo officially launched his reelection bid at his alma mater, Rancho High School—the same venue for his 2021 announcement and 2022 victory speech. Emphasizing “getting stuff done,” he touted raises for teachers and law enforcement, housing progress, and school accountability, while criticizing legislative inaction on crime.
Facing no serious Republican primary challengers, Lombardo is expected to advance easily. The general election, however, shapes up as a toss-up. Leading Democratic contenders include Attorney General Aaron Ford (term-limited in his current role), who has strong name recognition, and potentially others like Washoe County Commissioner Alexis Hill or former Governor Steve Sisolak eyeing a comeback.
Recent polls show a dead heat: Lombardo and Ford tied at around 41% each in some surveys, with key issues like the economy, housing affordability, and education dominating. Immigration has emerged as a flashpoint, with Lombardo authorizing limited National Guard support for federal efforts.
As 2026 approaches, Lombardo campaigns on continuity and results, warning against returning to Democratic control. “Nevadan
