Trump endorses Clark County Sheriff Joe Lombardo for Nevada governor
LAS VEGAS (KSNV) — Former President Donald Trump is throwing his support behind Clark County Sheriff Joe Lombardo's run for Nevada governor.
In a statement Wednesday, Trump announced his endorsement for the sheriff saying, in part:
“As Governor, Joe will fiercely Protect our under-siege Second Amendment, Oppose Sanctuary Cities, Support our Law Enforcement, Veto any Liberal Tax Increase, Protect Life, and Secure our Elections.” said President Donald Trump. "Joe Lombardo is the leader Nevada needs, and he has my Complete and Total Endorsement for Governor!"
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Lombardo said in response:
“I’m grateful to receive President Donald Trump’s endorsement today. From his tough-on-crime policies to his unwavering support of law enforcement, I know that there has been no greater friend to veterans and police officers than President Trump,” said Sheriff Lombardo. “As a veteran and law enforcement officer myself, I’m humbled to accept President Trump’s endorsement. I’m ready to get to work restoring law & order, fixing our education system, and building a strong economy in our great state as your next governor.”
A spokesperson for Governor Sisolak issued the following statement:
"It's clear Joe Lombardo's campaign is hitting the panic button. After getting attacks from all sides on the airwaves, called out for hiding, ripped for having it both ways on immigration, and hours after a brutal editorial from the conservative Review-Journal on his lack of transparency and record of wasting taxpayer money, it's no surprise Lombardo is reaching out for a lifeline."
Multiple polls have shown Lombardo leading the Republican field, one showing former U.S. Sen. Dean Heller tied for second with North Las Vegas Mayor John Lee.
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The Republican Primary takes place on June 14th.
The crowded GOP field also includes venture capitalist Guy Nohra, Reno attorney Joey Gilbert, Gardnerville surgeon Fred Simon, perennial political hopeful Eddie Hamilton, logistics manager Tom Heck and real estate investor Barak Zilberberg.
Gilbert attended a political rally with Senate candidate Adam Laxalt and Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis. After the rally, when asked about Trump's endorsement of Lombardo, Gilbert positioned himself as the only candidate who could fight for Nevadans and said his campaign strategy wouldn't change.
"Look, Trump's a businessman. I heard Joe Lombardo bought the endorsement. Doesn't surprise me one bit," Gilbert said. "But we're still fighting. Independents, Republicans, even Democrats. It's about being the people's governor and fighting for what's right, and that's what I represent."
