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Joe Lombardo
46.5%
#30 of 50

Joe Lombardo

Nevada R | 1st term
2023-01-02Took Office 3 yrs, 5 moIn Office 263Metrics Scored 768 / 1653Total Points

Section A: Governance

242/300
81%

Section B: State Outcomes

460/975
47%

Section C: Oath Fidelity

+66 (-378 to +378)

Section A — Governance 242/300

9 subsections evaluating executive performance: budget execution, legislative relations, appointments, emergency management, transparency, ethics, program management, federal relations, and constituent service.

On-time budget submission
FY2024-25 executive budget submitted Jan 2023; enacted June 2023 at $11.6B general fund — largest biennial budget in state history. FY2026-27 budget submitted Jan 2025 at $12.4B (7% increase), enacted within 120-day session. Both budgets completed on schedule despite divided government.
NV Governor's Finance Office; NV Legislature Budget Documents; Nevada Independent 12/2024
2
Budget accuracy — revenue forecast vs actual
Dec 2024 Economic Forum projected $12.4B for FY26-27; May 2025 revision lowered by $102M (2.7%) — first mid-session decrease since 2009. Gaming tax revenue ran 8.7% above forecast through first 5 months of FY25. Revenue appeared 6.7% above projection on paper but partly inflated by administrative anomalies. Conservative forecasting approach generally accurate.
NV Economic Forum Final Reports 2024, 2025; Nevada Current 12/2025; NV Legislative Fiscal Division
2
Rainy day fund management
Rainy Day Fund fully funded at $1.243B as of Sept 2024, projected to reach $1.665B by end of FY2027. 2023 Legislature raised cap to 26% of General Fund appropriations. Fund fully replenished from pandemic-era depletion of $332M. Automatic transfer mechanism: 40% of unrestricted GF ending balance plus 1% of anticipated revenue. Among strongest state reserve positions nationally.
NV State Treasurer Reports; 2News 9/2024; Pew Charitable Trusts 3/2025; NV Legislature Fiscal Brief 2025-27
3
State credit rating trajectory
Nevada maintained highest credit ratings in state history (AA+/Aa1 range) through FY2024, unchanged from 2022 peak. However, Moody's flagged Nevada's governing weakness due to severely delayed ACFR filings (FY2023 ACFR released 777 days late in Aug 2025). Outstanding GO debt $1.2B plus $719M highway revenue bonds as of FY2024. No downgrades during tenure but late ACFR puts ratings at risk.
S&P Global Ratings; Moody's — State of Nevada; Bond Buyer 9/2025; NV State Treasurer Debt Reports
2
Pension funding ratio trajectory
PERS funded ratio improved slightly from 75.4% (FY2023) to 75.6% (FY2024). Total pension liability $82.5B against $63.8B in assets (up 11.5% from $57.2B in FY2023). FY2024 investment return: 12.1% (time-weighted, gross of fees), generating $6.9B in net investment income. Contribution rates scheduled to increase effective July 2025 per Retirement Board approval Nov 2024. Funded ratio remains below 80% threshold but trending positively.
NV PERS ACFR FY2024; PERS News 2025 Vol. I; PERS Actuarial Valuation FY2024
2
Debt per capita trajectory
Nevada state debt $3.59B plus $25.35B local government debt, totaling $28.94B ($9,205 per resident as of 2021, below national average). Outstanding GO debt $1.2B as of FY2024. Constitutional limit caps GO debt at 10% of assessed valuation. No major new debt issuance under Lombardo beyond routine capital projects. Per capita debt below national median.
NV State Treasurer Debt Capacity Report; Census State Government Finances; Nevada Independent
2
CAFR/ACFR published on time
SEVERELY LATE: FY2023 ACFR published Aug 18, 2025 — 777 days after fiscal year end. FY2024 ACFR still not issued as of late 2025. Controller Andy Matthews pledged FY2024 by March 2026 and return to normal by FY2027. Delays attributed partly to 2025 ransomware attack and post-COVID staffing. Moody's flagged late filings as governing weakness. Real consequence: federal anti-domestic violence funding frozen due to missing FY2023 and FY2024 audits.
Bond Buyer 9/2025; Truth in Accounting; NV Controller's Office; Nevada Independent
1
Audit findings — material weaknesses
NDOT audit (2024) found significant discrepancies between physical inventory counts and records for $25M in stockpile materials; 10 recommendations accepted. NDOT employees found to have misused state vehicles — classified as 'abusive not fraudulent.' NV State Health Insurance Exchange 2024 audit identified material weaknesses (Findings 2024-001 through 2024-004). NDOC facing $53M budget hole from $60M/yr in overtime costs. No material weaknesses in overall state financial audit but individual agency findings notable.
NV Legislative Auditor LA24-09; LVRJ 6/2025 NDOT audit; NV SSHIE 2024 Audit Report; Nevada Independent NDOC reports
1
Federal grant fund accounting
Nevada received $2.7B in ARPA funds; 96% was allocated before Lombardo took office. Approximately $789M remains unspent as of Oct 2025 with Dec 2026 expenditure deadline. Lombardo de-obligated $220M (8%) of previously allocated ARPA funds due to canceled projects and savings. Federal funding frozen for anti-domestic violence programs due to missing FY2023/FY2024 fiscal audits. Single Audit delayed due to late ACFR filings.
Nevada Independent ARPA analysis; This Is Reno 10/2025; NV Legislative Auditor; FEMA PA records
2
Anti-fraud controls — federal programs
Governor's Office of Economic Development pandemic relief programs audited by Legislative Counsel Bureau in 2024 — State Small Business Credit Initiative examined. Medicaid unwinding (Apr 2023 - Jun 2024) resulted in 170,000+ losing coverage, with system glitch affecting automatic renewals leading to erroneous disenrollments — 114,000 temporarily reinstated. NDOT stockpile audit found $25M in inventory discrepancies. No major fraud prosecutions but procedural lapses identified.
NV Legislative Auditor; NV DHHS Medicaid Unwinding Reports; CBPP Unwinding Watch; LVRJ NDOT audit
3
Tax revenue vs expenditure alignment
Gaming tax revenue hit record $1.23B in FY2024 (up 4.75% from FY2023); gross gaming revenue reached $15.61B in calendar 2024. No income tax limits revenue diversity — state relies heavily on gaming (6.75% tax rate) and sales tax. FY2026-27 budget revenue projection $12.4B, up 7%. May 2025 Economic Forum revision lowered projections by $102M (2.7%). No structural deficit but tourism-dependent revenue mix vulnerable to economic downturns.
NV Gaming Control Board Revenue Reports; NV Economic Forum; AGA State of the States 2025; Nevada Current 12/2025
2
Capital budget execution rate
Major capital projects advancing: I-15 South widening ($81M, 95% federal funded, 80% complete Dec 2025); I-15 Tropicana interchange ($382M total, Jan 2024 start, completion Jan 2026). NDOT secured $46.8M in redistributed FHWA funds — largest single-year amount in state history. 2022 bond sale of $47M for capital improvement projects completed at highest credit ratings. Capital budget execution on track for highway and building projects.
NDOT Project Reports; NV SPWD; FHWA Nevada Division; Governor's Office 11/2022 bond announcement
2
Vendor/contractor oversight
A's stadium deal (SB1, June 2023 special session) provided $380M in public financing: $180M in transferable tax credits, $120M in Clark County bonds, $25M infrastructure credit. Consultant failed to disclose client representation and later joined both the A's and Las Vegas Stadium Authority, creating conflict. NDOT audit found stockroom purchases lacked effective safeguards. Procurement for NDOC overtime ($60M/yr) flagged as inadequately managed. No systemic procurement scandal but oversight gaps exist.
NV Purchasing Division; Nevada Independent A's stadium coverage; LVRJ NDOT audit 6/2025; Nevada Current NDOC 4/2025
3
Federal funding maximization
Nevada captured $2.7B in ARPA funds (allocated mostly pre-Lombardo). NDOT secured record $46.8M in redistributed FHWA funds. Federal IIJA infrastructure funds deployed for I-15 projects ($81M South widening 95% federally funded; $382M Tropicana interchange). FEMA-4708-DR major disaster declaration secured April 2023 for winter storms/flooding. Lombardo opted Nevada into federal school choice tax credit program (One Big Beautiful Bill Act). Total federal aid to Nevada approximately $10B annually.
USASpending.gov — Nevada; FHWA Nevada; FEMA DR-4708; Nevada Independent ARPA analysis; Governor's Office press releases
3
Program eligibility verification systems
Medicaid unwinding (Apr 2023 - Jun 2024) exposed system glitches: automatic renewal system reviewed households instead of individuals, leading to erroneous disenrollments. 170,000+ Nevadans lost Medicaid coverage; 114,000 reinstated after procedural errors discovered. SAVE system used for federal program eligibility verification. Nevada State Health Insurance Exchange 2024 audit identified material weaknesses in internal controls over compliance (Findings 2024-001 to 2024-004). Verification systems functional but flawed during unwinding.
NV DHHS Medicaid Redetermination Reports; CBPP Unwinding Watch; NV SSHIE 2024 Audit; GAO-24-106883
3
Signature legislation enacted
Extremely limited legislative success due to divided government. Democrat-controlled legislature opposes most Republican initiatives. Education savings account expansion (school choice) signed into law was notable achievement but most agenda items blocked.
NV Legislature Bill Tracking; Governor's Office Press Releases
1
Veto override rate
RECORD-SETTING VETOES: 75 vetoes in 2023 session, 87 vetoes in 2025 session — total 162 vetoes, the most by any single Nevada governor. However, no vetoes overridden because Lombardo successfully prevented Democrats from achieving 2/3 supermajority in 2024 elections.
NV Legislature Journal; Nevada Independent Veto Tracker
2
Bipartisan bills signed
Very few bipartisan accomplishments. The record veto count reflects deep partisan divide. Signed 518 bills in 2025 but vetoed 1 in 7 — reflecting inability to find middle ground on many issues.
NV Legislature Vote Records 2023, 2025
1
Special sessions called
Called one special session: June 7, 2023 for Oakland A's baseball stadium relocation — passed $380M public financing package (SB1) including $180M transferable tax credits, $120M Clark County bonds, $25M infrastructure credit for 30,000-seat stadium on Tropicana Las Vegas site. Special session completed quickly. No other special sessions called. Both 2023 and 2025 regular sessions completed within 120-day constitutional limit without needing extension.
NV Legislature Special Session Records 2023; LVRJ 6/2023; Nevada Independent; ESPN 6/2023
2
Executive orders — legal challenges
Signed 12+ executive orders. EO 2023-003 froze new regulations across all executive branch agencies (Jan 2023); EO 2023-004 suspended occupational licensing board regulations; EO 2023-008 lifted freeze after review (June 2023). Result: 72 agencies proposed streamlining 1,149 regulations; 79% approved by Legislative Commission and enacted as of March 2025. No executive orders challenged or struck down by courts. Orders focused on regulatory reduction, not controversial constitutional issues.
NV Governor's Office EO Records; Nevada Independent 1/2023; UNR BEP regulatory freeze analysis; Governor's Promise Tracker 3/2025
3
Line-item veto usage
Nevada governor does not have line-item veto authority (unlike most states). Lombardo vetoed entire budget bill in 2023 session as leverage against Democratic Legislature before signing a negotiated version. Used full-bill veto power strategically — vetoed rent control (SB275 in 2023, AB280 in 2025), paid leave, IVF coverage bills, and corporate homeownership cap as policy tools. 162 total vetoes (75 in 2023, 87 in 2025) reflect use of veto as primary governance mechanism against hostile legislature.
NV Constitution Art. 4 §35; LVRJ 6/2023 budget veto; Nevada Independent Veto Tracker 2023, 2025
3
Regulatory burden change
EO 2023-003 froze new regulations statewide; EO 2023-004 ordered occupational licensing boards to justify all requirements and establish licensure reciprocity. By March 2025, 72 agencies proposed streamlining or repealing 1,149 regulations, with 79% enacted by Legislative Commission. Regulatory freeze was most aggressive deregulation effort in recent NV history. However, legislature blocked broader deregulatory bills. Lombardo's regulatory review primarily achieved through executive action rather than legislation.
NV Administrative Code; Governor's EO 2023-003/004/008; Nevada Independent 1/2023; Governor's Promise Tracker 3/2025
2
Budget negotiation success
Biennial budgets enacted on time in both 2023 and 2025 sessions despite divided government. Negotiations difficult but functional.
NV Legislature Budget Conference Records
2
Bill signing rate on popular legislation
Signed education bills, public safety measures. But vetoed popular bills on expanded paid leave, rent control for seniors, ballot drop box access.
NV Legislature Records; Governor's Office
2
Legislative relationship
Deeply adversarial with Democratic legislature. Record 162 vetoes across two sessions. Actively campaigned to prevent D supermajority in 2024 elections. Functional but highly contentious.
NV Legislature Records; Nevada Independent; Las Vegas Review-Journal
1
Implementation of voter-approved measures
Question 3 (ranked-choice voting/open primaries) passed in 2022 but rejected by voters in Nov 2024 — Lombardo opposed the measure and vetoed related implementation legislation, claiming voters had rejected it. Question 1 (equal rights amendment) approved in 2024 — implementation proceeding. Lombardo signed legislation implementing previously approved ballot measures on minimum wage increases. No court challenges to implementation failures. Vetoed legislation to codify RCV after it failed at ballot.
NV Secretary of State; Ballotpedia NV Question 3 (2024); Nevada Independent; Governor's Office veto messages
3
Task force follow-through
Education task force produced AB400 (Education Achievement, Opportunity and Accountability Act) — created NV Office of School Choice, expanded Opportunity Scholarships to $50M with $8,469/student cap. Workforce development: state employee vacancy rate cut from 33% to ~13% through 12% FY2024 raises and 11% FY2025 raises plus $250 quarterly bonuses. Regulatory review task force achieved 79% implementation of 1,149 proposed regulation changes. Opted NV into federal school choice tax credit. Follow-through measurable on key priorities.
Governor's Office; NV Legislature AB400; Nevada Independent Promise Tracker 3/2025; 8NewsNow state employee pay
2
Policy reversals under pressure
Generally consistent on policy positions. Vetoed voter ID/ballot drop box compromise bill that he had previously negotiated with Speaker Yeager, which was a notable reversal.
NV Legislature Records; Nevada Independent
2
Appointee criminal/ethics issues
Gaming Control Board chair Kirk Hendrick (appointed Jan 2023) served without ethics issues before resigning Jan 2025; replaced by Mike Dreitzer (former gaming CEO). Deputy Chief George Assad appointed to GCB. Chief of Staff Ben Kieckhefer (former state senator) replaced by Ryan Cherry in Jan 2024 — Cherry's prior lobbying for National Apartment Management LLC drew criticism but no ethics violations found. Lobbyist Mike Willden given access to confidential budget documents during transition but not formally appointed — ProPublica investigation raised conflict concerns.
NV Ethics Commission; ProPublica/Nevada Independent 1/2023; Nevada Current 2/2025 GCB; LVRJ Cherry appointment
3
Agency head vacancy rate
State workforce vacancy rate dropped from 33% peak (early 2023) to approximately 13% by late 2024 — cut roughly in half. Actively recruited positions vacancy rate dropped by more than 36%. Key appointments filled: Gaming Control Board (3 members across tenure), NDOC director, DPS director. NDOC vacancy rate remained elevated at 18.8% (down from 33% peak but still problematic, requiring $60M/yr overtime). Critical positions in corrections and healthcare agencies remain hardest to fill.
Governor's Office; Nevada Independent state worker vacancy data; NV DAdmin HR Reports
2
State employee turnover
Turnover stabilized after aggressive pay increases: 12% raise FY2024, 11% raise FY2025, $250 quarterly retention bonuses. Approximately 60% of state staff received 32% cumulative pay increase over two years. NDOC remains acute exception — officer vacancy at 18.8%, with $60M/yr overtime costs driven by mandatory hospital transport shifts. Prison guard 'musical chairs' identified as key turnover driver. Overall state workforce turnover improved but corrections sector crisis continues.
NV DAdmin HR Reports; 8NewsNow 6/2023 pay raises; Nevada Independent state worker vacancy; Nevada Current NDOC 4/2025
3
Diversity of appointments
Gaming Control Board appointments include Chandeni Sendall (Reno Deputy City Attorney, appointed Feb 2025) and former Judge George Assad (Jan 2023). Nevada is 49.5% white, 29.2% Hispanic, 10.3% Black, 8.7% Asian per Census. Lombardo's cabinet-level and board appointments include women and minorities but no comprehensive diversity report published. Judicial Commission nominations followed standard merit-selection process. No major diversity controversies in appointment record.
Governor's Office Appointment Records; NV Gaming Control Board; U.S. Census Bureau Nevada demographics
2
Judicial appointment quality
Nevada uses a merit-based judicial selection process through the Commission on Judicial Selection for district court vacancies. Lombardo filled multiple district court vacancies through the commission process without controversy. No judicial appointees removed, disciplined, or publicly criticized for qualifications. Clark County (Las Vegas) district court had contested elections in 2024 with 6 seats on ballot — separate from governor appointments. Lombardo's judicial picks reflected his law enforcement background priorities.
NV Commission on Judicial Selection; Ballotpedia NV judicial elections 2024; Governor's Office Appointment Records
2
State workforce pay competitiveness
Signed landmark pay raises: 12% in FY2024, 11% in FY2025, plus $250 quarterly retention bonuses. Approximately 60% of staff received cumulative 32% increase over two years. Classification and compensation study (AB451, 2023) drove reforms. Vacancy rate halved from 33% to ~13%. However, NDOC still 18.8% vacant with $60M/yr overtime. Las Vegas private-sector hospitality wages ($21-25/hr) and construction wages still compete against state pay for entry-level workers. Cost of living index ~103-105 relative to national average.
NV DAdmin Compensation Data; 8NewsNow 6/2023; Nevada Independent vacancy data; BLS OES Nevada; AB451 study
2
Whistleblower protection
No documented whistleblower retaliation cases during Lombardo's tenure. NDOC staffing crisis prompted officers to publicly criticize state leaders through union channels without reported retaliation. NDOT audit findings (misuse of state vehicles, $25M inventory discrepancies) discovered through internal audit process without whistleblower complaints. NV has whistleblower protections under NRS 281.641. Ethics Commission reported no retaliation investigations related to governor's office or appointees.
NV Ethics Commission Records; NRS 281.641; Nevada Independent NDOC staffing reports; NV Legislative Auditor
3
Inspector General independence
Nevada uses Legislative Counsel Bureau (LCB) Audit Division rather than a traditional IG structure. LCB conducted independent audits of NDOT (stockpile findings), NDOC (overtime crisis), Public Utilities Commission, Division of Forestry, and pandemic relief programs during 2024-2025 without interference from governor's office. LCB audit recommendations were accepted by agencies in most cases (NDOT accepted all 10 recommendations). No reports of executive branch pressure on audit findings.
NV LCB Audit Division Reports 2024-2025; NV Legislative Auditor website; LVRJ NDOT audit
2
State employee morale
Morale improved by 32% cumulative pay increases for 60% of staff and $250 quarterly bonuses. Vacancy rate halved to ~13% suggests improved retention. However, NDOC morale severely impacted: 18.8% vacancy rate, $60M/yr mandatory overtime, 76 inmate deaths in 2025 (highest in 5+ years), prison guards publicly criticizing leadership. Corrections union demanded action on staffing. Outside study recommended adding 750+ staff including 600 officers. Non-corrections agencies report improved morale post-pay raises.
NV DAdmin Employee Data; Nevada Independent NDOC reports; Hoodline 2/2026 NDOC; 8NewsNow pay raises
3
Nepotism/cronyism
No documented nepotism or family hiring in state appointments. However, lobbyist Mike Willden — who had connections to Northshore Clinical COVID lab scandal under predecessor Sisolak — was given access to confidential budget documents during transition and attended budget meetings with department directors, despite not being formally appointed. ProPublica investigation found Willden was positioned to advocate for clients receiving ~$30M/yr in state funding. Chief of Staff Ryan Cherry's prior lobbying raised cronyism concerns but no nepotism.
NV Ethics Commission Records; ProPublica/Nevada Independent 1/2023 Willden investigation; LVRJ Cherry appointment
3
Senior staff criminal charges
No senior staff or cabinet members charged with crimes during Lombardo's tenure. Chief of Staff Kieckhefer (2023) and replacement Cherry (2024) served without criminal issues. Gaming Control Board chairs Hendrick and Dreitzer had clean records. No arrests, indictments, or criminal investigations involving governor's office staff. Lombardo himself had 34-year law enforcement career as Clark County Sheriff without criminal issues. Ethics fine ($5,000 settlement) related to campaign badge use, not criminal conduct.
Court Records; NV Ethics Commission; Governor's Office personnel records
3
Agency performance accountability
Mixed agency performance: NDOC facing $53M budget hole from overtime spiraling, 76 inmate deaths (2025 record), needs 750+ new staff per outside study. NDOT had $25M inventory discrepancy and vehicle misuse findings. DMV disrupted for weeks during Aug 2025 ransomware attack. Positive: state workforce vacancy halved, gaming regulatory operations smooth under GCB leadership transitions, Medicaid unwinding completed despite system errors. Governor's Promise Tracker shows partial follow-through on campaign pledges after two sessions.
NV Performance Reports; Nevada Independent Promise Tracker 3/2025; NDOC/NDOT audit reports; Governor's Office
3
Disaster declaration timeliness
Declared state of emergency May 29, 2023 for flooding/mudslides from snowmelt runoff across 8 counties and 2 tribal nations (Churchill, Douglas, Elko, Eureka, Humboldt, Lincoln, Lyon, Storey, Fallon Paiute-Shoshone Tribe, Walker River Paiute Tribe). Earlier expansion March 17, 2023 for winter storm flooding. Activated National Guard ahead of Hurricane Hilary (Aug 2023). Secured FEMA-4708-DR presidential major disaster declaration (April 27, 2023) for winter storms, flooding, landslides. Declarations issued promptly.
Governor's Office Emergency Proclamations; FEMA DR-4708; Federal Register 5/31/2023; Fox5Vegas 8/2023
2
FEMA Public Assistance secured
Secured FEMA-4708-DR major disaster declaration (April 27, 2023) for severe winter storms, flooding, landslides, mudslides (incident period March 8-19, 2023). Public Assistance approved for 8 counties and 2 tribal nations. FEMA Individual Assistance and Public Assistance both activated. Federal Emergency Management coordination effective — no reports of delayed or denied federal assistance. Also secured pre-positioned Hurricane Hilary response (Aug 2023) with National Guard activation. FEMA coordination rated effective by post-incident reviews.
FEMA PA Records — Nevada DR-4708; Federal Register 5/31/2023; NV Division of Emergency Management
3
Emergency reserve adequacy
Rainy Day Fund fully funded at $1.243B (Sept 2024), projected to reach $1.665B by FY2027. Cap raised to 26% of General Fund appropriations by 2023 Legislature. Fund represents approximately 10% of biennial general fund budget ($12.4B). Fully replenished from pandemic-era depletion of $332M. Among strongest state emergency reserve positions nationally — sufficient to cover ~2 months of state operations. Automatic funding mechanism ensures continued growth.
NV State Treasurer Reports; 2News 9/2024; Pew Charitable Trusts 3/2025; NV Legislature Fiscal Brief
3
Lives lost — preventable from state failure
No preventable deaths attributable to state system failures during flood/storm emergencies (2023). Hurricane Hilary preparation (Aug 2023) resulted in zero deaths from the storm in Nevada. However, NDOC reported 76 inmate deaths in 2025 — highest in at least 5 years — linked partly to staffing shortages causing delayed medical transport (hospital transport overtime a key driver of $60M/yr crisis). No wildfire fatalities attributed to state response failures. 2025 ransomware attack disrupted Medicaid systems but no documented deaths from service interruptions.
NV DEM; NV DPS; Nevada Independent NDOC 76 deaths report; Governor's Office emergency records
3
Post-disaster recovery
Post-disaster recovery from March 2023 winter storms/flooding completed across 8 counties with FEMA Public Assistance funding. Infrastructure repairs in northern Nevada (roads, levees, utilities) completed through state-federal coordination. 200,000+ acres of land treated for wildfire mitigation before 2025 fire season under state forestry programs. Aug 2025 ransomware attack recovery completed in 28 days — state refused ransom, recovered ~90% of data, cost $1.3M in outside vendor support. Post-attack cybersecurity framework legislation (AB1) signed.
FEMA PA DR-4708 records; NV DEM; Governor's Office 11/5/2025 cyber recovery announcement; NV Division of Forestry
3
Public health emergency response
Medicaid unwinding (Apr 2023 - Jun 2024) was largest public health operations challenge: 170,000+ lost coverage, system glitch caused erroneous disenrollments, 114,000 temporarily reinstated. Medicaid budget expanded to nearly $11B for FY26-27 biennium. Medicaid rate increase of 5% for physicians, dentists, nursing homes. $17M expansion for community behavioral health centers (up to 6 clinics statewide). Drug overdose deaths remain elevated. No pandemic-scale emergencies during tenure. Uninsured rate ~10-11% (above national average).
NV DHHS; NV DHCFP Medicaid data; CBPP Unwinding Watch; Census ACS health insurance; 8NewsNow budget reporting
3
Infrastructure failure prevention
No major infrastructure failures. Lake Mead at 1,054 ft elevation (33% full), 175 ft below full pool. Nevada under Tier 1 shortage: allocated 279,000 acre-feet (21,000 below standard 300,000 — 7% cut). SNWA returned 244,000 acre-feet to Lake Mead through recycling in 2024. Per capita water use reduced 58% since 2002. SNWA banked 2.2M acre-feet (11x annual use). Major I-15 projects ($81M South widening, $382M Tropicana) proceeding without failures. Aug 2025 ransomware attack disrupted 60+ agencies including DMV and Medicaid but no infrastructure collapse.
SNWA Water Reports; Bureau of Reclamation 2025 AOP; NDOT; Governor's Office cyber recovery 11/2025
3
National Guard deployment appropriateness
Activated National Guard ahead of Hurricane Hilary (Aug 2023) for pre-positioning — appropriate preventive deployment. Activated Guard for Election Day security (Oct 2024). Declined to send Guard troops to Texas border in 2024, citing excessive costs and need to defend Nevada — broke with 12+ Republican governors. In Aug 2025, authorized Guard to support ICE operations domestically in 'non-front-facing administrative' roles only, not combat/enforcement. All deployments within state, appropriate to circumstances, with civilian oversight maintained.
NV National Guard Records; LVRJ 2/2024 border decision; Nevada Independent 8/2025 ICE support; Fox5Vegas 8/2023 Hilary
2
Emergency communication
Emergency communications effective during 2023 flooding — timely public warnings issued for 8 counties and 2 tribal nations. Hurricane Hilary pre-positioning communicated clearly (Aug 2023). However, ransomware attack (Aug 24, 2025) disrupted state communications for 28 days across 60+ agencies. Lombardo initially promised transparency on cyber attack but Nevada Current reported he 'continued to promise transparency... eventually' with slow public information release. After-action report eventually published detailing malware entry 3 months prior to discovery.
NV DEM; Governor's Office emergency proclamations; Nevada Current 9/2025 cyber transparency; Governor's cyber AAR
3
Interagency coordination
Multi-agency coordination effective during 2023 flood response — NV DEM, FEMA, National Guard, 8 county emergency managers, 2 tribal governments coordinated. Wildfire briefing (2024) convened NDOT, Division of Forestry, BLM, USFS for pre-season planning; 200,000+ acres treated. Colorado River negotiations involve coordination with 6 other states, Bureau of Reclamation, DOI — Nevada offered 17% allocation reduction. Ransomware recovery required coordination across 60+ agencies with Governor's Technology Office and outside vendors ($1.3M cost). Interagency coordination generally functional.
NV DEM; Governor's Office 2024 wildfire briefing; Bureau of Reclamation Colorado River; Governor's cyber AAR
3
Pandemic response metrics
No active pandemic during tenure but managed pandemic aftermath: Medicaid unwinding (Apr 2023 - Jun 2024) affected 170,000+ Nevadans. ARPA fund management: $2.7B allocation with $789M still unspent as of Oct 2025 (Dec 2026 deadline). Pandemic relief programs audited by LCB including State Small Business Credit Initiative. COVID testing infrastructure wound down. Behavioral health clinics expansion ($17M for up to 6 sites) addresses pandemic-era mental health crisis. Post-pandemic economic recovery complicated by 5.8% unemployment (highest in nation mid-2025).
NV DHHS; CBPP Medicaid Unwinding; Nevada Independent ARPA analysis; BLS LAUS
2
Disaster preparedness & emergency infrastructure
Water conservation and drought management ongoing. Lake Mead levels improving from historic lows. Standard disaster preparedness for earthquake and wildfire risks. Emergency management infrastructure adequate.
NV DEM; Southern Nevada Water Authority
2
FOIA/open records compliance
Governor's office provides public records request portal at gov.nv.gov. However, NV Legislature has exempted itself from public records requests that apply to all statewide officers — a transparency gap. Lombardo vetoed inaugural committee donor disclosure bill in 2023 and again in 2025 (would have required same reporting as PACs). His 501(c)(4) nonprofit 'Service First Fund' (renamed from NV Inaugural Committee) accepts unlimited undisclosed donations. Ransomware attack (Aug 2025) transparency criticized — promised openness but slow to release details per Nevada Current.
NV AG Public Records Opinions; Nevada Independent transparency reporting; Nevada Current 9/2025; Governor's Office website
3
Governor's schedule availability
Governor's public schedule posted on gov.nv.gov but not in real-time detail comparable to some states. Lombardo served as 2024 CSG (Council of State Governments) National President, requiring extensive interstate travel. Schedule availability adequate but not exemplary. Press conferences held regularly. Vetoed bill (AB490) that would have moved initiative petition cases out of Carson City district court (which lacks online access to documents). No major complaints about schedule opacity from media or watchdog groups.
Governor's Office Website; CSG 2024 leadership; Nevada Independent AB490 veto; NV media coverage
2
Campaign finance compliance
NV Democrats filed election violation report alleging Lombardo solicited donations during blackout period — no sanctions resulted. Ethics Commission fined Lombardo $20,000 (later settled at $5,000) for using sheriff badge/uniform in campaign materials — violation of NRS ethics law on using government property for personal benefit. Created 501(c)(4) inaugural committee (renamed Service First Fund) to avoid PAC donor disclosure — legal but criticized. No formal campaign finance violations from Secretary of State. Pro-Lombardo PAC spent millions on 2024 legislative races.
NV Secretary of State Campaign Finance Records; NV Ethics Commission settlement; Nevada Independent dark money reporting; NV Dems violation filing
3
Financial disclosure
Financial disclosures filed with NV Ethics Commission as required by law. However, Lombardo's inaugural committee (501(c)(4) Service First Fund) does not disclose donors — accepts unlimited corporate and personal donations without transparency. Vetoed inaugural committee donor disclosure bills in both 2023 and 2025 sessions. Personal financial disclosures comply with NV requirements but state disclosure standards are weaker than many states. No major undisclosed conflicts identified in filed disclosures.
NV Ethics Commission Financial Disclosures; Nevada Independent 501(c)(4) investigation; Governor's veto messages 2023, 2025
2
Open meetings compliance
No documented Open Meeting Law (NRS Chapter 241) violations by governor's office or executive branch agencies. Gaming Control Board, State Board of Education, and other boards conducted meetings in compliance with notice and access requirements. Legislature's own exemption from open records requests contrasts with executive branch compliance. AG's office has not issued formal opinions finding OML violations attributable to Lombardo administration agencies.
NV AG Open Meeting Decisions; NRS Chapter 241; NV Legislative records; Gaming Control Board meeting records
3
Open data portal
Nevada open data portal (open.nv.gov) maintained with state datasets. Controller Andy Matthews launched Nevada Open Finance Portal (checkbook.nv.gov) in Feb 2024 — collaborative effort with Lombardo administration — providing detailed data on state checkbook, budget, payroll, pension disbursements. Governor's Office of Economic Development maintains separate data portal (goed.nv.gov). However, ACFR data severely delayed (FY2023 report 777 days late). State data portal functional but lags behind leading states in dataset breadth.
open.nv.gov; checkbook.nv.gov; Nevada Appeal 2/2024 Open Finance launch; goed.nv.gov
2
Budget transparency
Budget documents publicly available through budget.nv.gov including FY2026-27 executive budget overview ($12.4B). Governor's Finance Office publishes executive budget recommendations, amendments, policy directives. Controller launched checkbook.nv.gov for spending transparency in Feb 2024. However, ACFR (audited financial statements) severely delayed — FY2023 published 777 days late, FY2024 still pending as of late 2025. Budget transparency for forward-looking documents is good; historical/audited financial transparency is poor.
NV Governor's Finance Office budget.nv.gov; NV Controller checkbook.nv.gov; Bond Buyer 9/2025 ACFR delays
2
Lobbying disclosure
NV Secretary of State maintains lobbyist registration database. However, former Gov. Brian Sandoval, union leader John Vellardita, and Lombardo advisor Robert Aguero were found to have failed to register as lobbyists — NV Ethics Commission ultimately imposed no sanctions (Dec 2025). Mike Willden lobbied for budget clients worth ~$30M/yr while advising Lombardo's transition without formal appointment or lobbyist disclosure. NV lobbying law lacks enforcement teeth per NSEA criticism. Chief of Staff Cherry was registered lobbyist in 2023 session before appointment.
NV Secretary of State Lobbying Records; Nevada Current 12/2025 Sandoval/Aguero/Vellardita; ProPublica Willden investigation
2
IG report publication
LCB Audit Division publishes full audit reports and highlights at leg.state.nv.us/audit. Reports during 2024-2025 include NDOT resource misuse audit, NDOC overtime investigation, Public Utilities Commission performance audit (LA24-09), Division of Forestry, Governor's Office of Economic Development pandemic relief programs, and Governmental Facilities for Children inspections (Dec 2024). Reports published with audit highlights summaries. However, ACFR (Controller's office responsibility) severely delayed — FY2023 report 777 days late.
NV Legislative Auditor Website leg.state.nv.us/audit; LCB Audit Reports 2024-2025; Bond Buyer ACFR delays
2
Legislative audit cooperation
Executive branch agencies cooperated with LCB audits — NDOT accepted all 10 recommendations from resource misuse audit. NDOC cooperated with overtime/staffing investigations. Governor's Office of Economic Development provided records for pandemic relief program audit. No reports of executive branch obstruction or refusal to cooperate with legislative auditors. ACFR delays (Controller's office) are operational capacity issue, not refusal to cooperate. After-action report on ransomware attack published voluntarily by Governor's Technology Office.
NV Legislative Auditor Records; LCB Audit Reports; LVRJ NDOT recommendations accepted; Governor's Technology Office AAR
3
Press conference accessibility
Regular press conferences held. Lombardo conducted State of the State address Jan 2025 with media access. 2024 CSG National President role increased national media profile. However, criticized for slow transparency on Aug 2025 ransomware attack — Nevada Current reported ongoing promises of openness without delivery. Lombardo's campaign machine ramped up media engagement for 2024 legislative races through PACs. Legislature's ban on dual lobbyist/press accreditation challenged in lawsuit. Press access functional but not exceptional.
Governor's Office Media Schedule; Nevada Current 9/2025 cyber transparency; CSG 2024; Nevada Independent press coverage
3
State contract transparency
State procurement records available through NV Purchasing Division. A's stadium deal (SB1) had transparency concerns: consultant failed to disclose client representation, subsequently worked simultaneously for A's and Las Vegas Stadium Authority before leaving to avoid conflict appearance. NDOT audit found procurement of stockroom materials lacked effective safeguards with $25M in inventory discrepancies. NV Open Finance Portal (checkbook.nv.gov, launched Feb 2024) improves contract spending visibility. 2023 'Christmas tree' bills awarded $110M to nonprofits — Lombardo-aligned PAC attacked legislature over this.
NV Purchasing Division; Nevada Independent A's consultant conflicts; LVRJ NDOT audit; checkbook.nv.gov
3
Court order compliance
No documented court order defiance. Lombardo challenged Ethics Commission $20,000 fine through proper judicial review — filed lawsuit in Oct 2023, NV Supreme Court unanimously revived his petition (June 2025), eventually settled for $5,000 payment with admission of non-willful violation. All legal challenges pursued through proper channels, not defiance. No federal court orders violated. State agencies complied with judicial mandates during Medicaid unwinding corrections and other administrative proceedings.
Court Records; NV Supreme Court ruling 6/2025; LVRJ ethics settlement; NV federal court dockets
3
Personal criminal charges
No criminal charges at any point. 34-year career in Clark County law enforcement, serving as 17th Sheriff of LVMPD from 2015-2023 (Clark County's largest law enforcement agency, ~5,000 officers). Ethics Commission censured him for using sheriff badge in campaign materials (settled at $5,000, admitted non-willful violation) but this is civil, not criminal. No DOJ investigations. No grand jury proceedings. Clean criminal background throughout public career.
Court Records; DOJ; NV Ethics Commission; Clark County Sheriff records; LVRJ ethics settlement 2025
3
Ethics complaints — substantiated
One substantiated ethics complaint: Ethics Commission fined Lombardo $20,000 (July 2023) for using sheriff badge/uniform in 4 campaign images — violation of NRS prohibiting use of government property for personal benefit. Originally calculated at $1.6M, reduced to $20K. Lombardo appealed; NV Supreme Court revived his challenge (June 2025). Ultimately settled Dec 2025 at $5,000, admitting one non-willful violation. This is the only substantiated complaint. No other ethics complaints against him during governorship.
NV Ethics Commission Records; NV Supreme Court ruling 6/2025; LVRJ/Nevada Independent ethics coverage; Settlement 12/2025
3
Gift/travel disclosure
Gift and travel disclosures filed as required. Lombardo served as 2024 CSG (Council of State Governments) National President, requiring significant travel. Inaugural events funded through 501(c)(4) Service First Fund — donors not disclosed (vetoed disclosure legislation twice). No specific gift scandals or unreported travel identified. Financial disclosures comply with NV requirements. Travel related to CSG presidency and interstate cooperation documented through official channels.
NV Ethics Commission Records; CSG 2024 leadership records; Governor's Office travel records
2
Conflict of interest
No formal conflict of interest findings by Ethics Commission. However, appearance concerns raised: (1) Chief of Staff Cherry previously lobbied for National Apartment Management LLC, then Lombardo vetoed 5 tenant protection bills; (2) lobbyist Mike Willden given access to confidential budget documents during transition while representing clients receiving ~$30M/yr in state funding; (3) A's stadium consultant worked simultaneously for the team and Las Vegas Stadium Authority. No conflicts formally adjudicated but pattern of lobbyist access criticized.
NV Ethics Commission Records; ProPublica Willden investigation 1/2023; Nevada Independent Cherry/housing vetoes; A's stadium coverage
3
State resources for political purposes
Actively campaigned to prevent D supermajority in 2024 elections — but political activity was through campaign apparatus, not state resources.
NV Ethics Commission; Campaign Finance Records
2
Truthfulness in official statements
No major documented pattern of falsehoods. However, Lombardo praised infrastructure projects 'made possible by Biden's disastrous policies' (March 2026) — Nevada Current noted irony of taking credit for projects funded by legislation he opposed politically. Ransomware attack transparency promises were slow to materialize (Aug-Nov 2025). During campaign, attacked Sisolak for Willden/Northshore COVID lab scandal, then quietly engaged same lobbyist for his own budget. State of the State addresses generally factual. No PolitiFact-rated 'Pants on Fire' statements.
Governor's Office Public Statements; Nevada Current 3/2026 federal funding irony; ProPublica Willden/Northshore
3
Protection of ethics infrastructure
Ethics Commission continued operations without budget cuts or structural interference. Commission actively adjudicated Lombardo's own badge case — demonstrating independence from executive pressure. However, Commission declined to sanction former Gov. Sandoval, union leader Vellardita, and Lombardo advisor Aguero for failure to register as lobbyists (Dec 2025) — NSEA criticized weak enforcement. Lombardo vetoed inaugural committee transparency bills that would have strengthened ethics infrastructure. Ethics Commission remains functional but enforcement authority limited.
NV Ethics Commission Budget and Records; Nevada Current 12/2025 lobbying enforcement; Governor's veto messages
2
Emoluments/self-dealing
No documented self-dealing or emoluments violations. Lombardo divested from Clark County sheriff role upon taking office. No personal business interests identified that benefited from state contracts or executive orders. 501(c)(4) Service First Fund is political vehicle, not personal enrichment. No Hatch Act-equivalent violations. Governor's salary set by statute ($157,800). No reports of personal financial gain from public office beyond salary and standard benefits.
NV Ethics Commission Financial Disclosures; Governor's Office; NRS 281A ethics statutes
3
Campaign donor to state contract pipeline
No direct donor-to-contract pipeline documented. However, lobbyist Mike Willden — who helped with budget transition — represented clients receiving ~$30M/yr in state funding (ProPublica). Chief of Staff Cherry's prior client (National Apartment Management LLC) benefited from Lombardo's veto of tenant protection bills but no direct state contracts awarded. A's stadium $380M public financing package benefited team ownership without clear donor connection. Pro-Lombardo 'culture of corruption' PAC campaign attacked legislators over $110M in 'Christmas tree' bill allocations to nonprofits.
NV Secretary of State; Purchasing Division; ProPublica Willden investigation; Nevada Independent dark money/PAC coverage
3
Foreign influence
No foreign influence concerns identified. Nevada's gaming industry has strict foreign ownership regulations through Gaming Control Board — Lombardo's appointees maintained regulatory integrity. No FARA registrations linked to governor's office staff or appointees. No foreign government contacts flagged. Las Vegas hosts significant international business (gaming, conventions, entertainment) but governor's office interactions appropriately channeled through economic development offices rather than personal arrangements.
DOJ FARA Database; NV Gaming Control Board foreign investment regulations; Governor's Office records
3
Sexual harassment claims
No sexual harassment claims filed against Lombardo or senior staff during his gubernatorial tenure. No claims documented during his 34-year law enforcement career including 8 years as Clark County Sheriff (2015-2023). LVMPD is a large agency (~5,000 officers) — no harassment claims linked personally to Lombardo. Governor's office maintains standard workplace policies. No settlements, NDAs, or complaints identified in public records.
NV DAdmin HR Records; Clark County HR records; Governor's Office; LVMPD records
3
Records preservation
No documented records destruction. Aug 2025 ransomware attack resulted in loss of approximately 10% of state data (90% recovered without paying ransom). Hackers entered system 3 months before discovery (May 2025 intrusion, Aug 24 discovery). Data loss was result of cyberattack, not intentional destruction. After-action report published by Governor's Technology Office. AB1 (cybersecurity framework law) signed post-attack to improve records protection. State Library and Archives operations maintained standard retention schedules.
NV State Library, Archives; Governor's Technology Office AAR; LVRJ 3-month intrusion report; Governor's AB1 signing
3
Revolving door
Chief of Staff Ryan Cherry was a registered lobbyist during 2023 session (clients included National Apartment Management LLC) before becoming chief of staff Jan 2024 — classic revolving door from lobbying to government. Lobbyist Mike Willden moved between Sisolak administration influence and Lombardo budget advising. A's stadium consultant moved from governor's presentation to working for both the A's and Las Vegas Stadium Authority simultaneously. Former Gov. Sandoval failed to register as lobbyist for NV work (no sanctions imposed Dec 2025). Pattern of lobbyist-government interchange present.
NV Ethics Commission Records; LVRJ Cherry appointment; ProPublica Willden; Nevada Current 12/2025 Sandoval lobbying
3
Fraud losses in state programs
No major fraud prosecutions in state programs during Lombardo's tenure. NDOT audit found $25M inventory discrepancies classified as 'abusive, not fraudulent' — procedural rather than criminal. Medicaid unwinding errors (170,000+ lost coverage, 114,000 reinstated) were system glitches, not fraud. NDOC overtime crisis ($60M/yr) driven by staffing shortages, not fraud — audit found 38,000+ unknown overtime hours costing up to $18.5M annually. Governor's Office of Economic Development pandemic relief programs audited without fraud findings.
NV Legislative Auditor; NV DHHS Program Integrity; LVRJ NDOT/NDOC audit findings; LCB pandemic relief audit
3
Program integrity — eligibility verification
Medicaid eligibility verification system had significant problems during unwinding: automatic renewal glitch reviewed households instead of individuals, causing erroneous disenrollments nationwide (29 states affected). 170,000+ Nevadans lost coverage; 114,000 temporarily reinstated after procedural errors discovered. NV State Health Insurance Exchange 2024 audit found material weaknesses in internal controls over compliance (4 findings). SAVE system used for public benefits verification. Program integrity staffing adequate but systems require modernization.
NV DHHS Program Integrity Reports; CBPP Unwinding Watch; GAO-24-106883; NV SSHIE 2024 Independent Audit
3
IT system modernization
MAJOR FAILURE: Aug 24, 2025 ransomware attack disrupted 60+ state agencies including DMV and Medicaid for 28 days. Hackers entered system May 14 via spoofed website — 3 months before detection. State refused ransom, recovered ~90% of data, cost $1.3M in outside vendor support. Post-attack: Governor's Technology Office received $300K for two new cybersecurity initiatives; Lombardo signed AB1 creating statewide cybersecurity framework and centralized security operations center (SOC) under Office of CIO. Systemic vulnerability exposed pre-existing IT modernization gaps.
Governor's Technology Office AAR; StateScoop NV cyber projects; LVRJ hackers timeline; Governor's AB1 signing; Fox5Vegas 12/2025
2
Permit processing timeliness
Gaming licensing operating smoothly under GCB leadership (Hendrick 2023-25, Dreitzer from April 2025). GCB oversaw 307 casinos grossing $1M+ in FY2024 (total revenues $31.5B, net income $2.6B). EO 2023-004 ordered licensing boards to justify requirements and establish reciprocity — 79% of 1,149 proposed regulation changes enacted. Mining permits functioning through standard channels. Business licensing generally efficient. However, Aug 2025 ransomware attack disrupted DMV and other permit-issuing agencies for weeks. A's stadium permits fast-tracked through special session.
NV Gaming Control Board Abstract 2024; NV Business & Industry; Governor's EO records; Governor's cyber recovery reports
2
Child welfare system
Nevada became 34th state to implement extended foster care (SB504, 2025 session) — effective July 1, 2025. DCFS retained 85.71% of caseworkers beyond 18 months. Approximately 400 children in foster care in rural Nevada; 105 youths entered foster care during recent review period. LCB audited Governmental and Private Facilities for Children inspections (Dec 2024). DCFS 2025-2029 Child and Family Services Plan developed collaboratively. Clark County Family Services and Washoe County HSA submitted improvement plans. System functional but NV child welfare outcomes remain below national averages.
NV DCFS Data Book FY2024; SB504 (2025); LCB audit Dec 2024; NV DCFS 2025-2029 CFSP; ACF CFSR
2
Medicaid program management
Medicaid budget expanded to nearly $11B for FY26-27 biennium. Medicaid rate increase of 5% for physicians, dentists, nursing homes. $17M expansion for community behavioral health centers (up to 6 clinics statewide in underserved areas). However, Medicaid unwinding (Apr 2023 - Jun 2024) was problematic: 170,000+ lost coverage, system glitch caused erroneous disenrollments, 114,000 temporarily reinstated. Aug 2025 ransomware attack disrupted Medicaid systems. Uninsured rate remains ~10-11%, above national average. Provider shortages persist, especially rural NV.
CMS Medicaid Reviews; NV DHCFP; 8NewsNow budget reports; CBPP Medicaid Unwinding; Census ACS
2
Environmental program
Water conservation achievements significant: Southern Nevada reduced per capita water use 58% since 2002 (population up 876,000). SNWA returned 244,000 acre-feet to Lake Mead in 2024 through recycling; banked 2.2M acre-feet (11x annual use). Lake Mead at 1,054 ft (33% full). Nevada under Tier 1 shortage — 279,000 acre-feet allocation (7% cut from 300,000 standard). ARPA allocated $100M for water projects. Division of Forestry treated 200,000+ acres for wildfire prevention. EPA-delegated programs maintained. Air quality in Las Vegas metro area meets federal standards.
SNWA 2024 reports; Bureau of Reclamation 2025 AOP; NV DEP; ARPA allocation; NV Division of Forestry
2
Transportation project delivery
Major NDOT projects advancing: I-15 South widening ($81M, 95% federally funded, 80% complete Dec 2025); I-15 Tropicana interchange ($382M total including $305M contract, Jan 2024 - Jan 2026); I-11/US-95 sign replacement. NDOT secured record $46.8M in redistributed FHWA funds in single year. However, NDOT audit found misuse of state vehicles and $25M stockroom inventory discrepancies. Las Vegas population growth (300,000+ in past decade) driving infrastructure expansion. Federal IIJA funding being deployed for highway and broadband ($203M ARPA broadband allocation).
NV DOT project pages; FHWA Nevada Division; LVRJ NDOT audit 6/2025; NDOT FHWA redistribution announcement
2
Unemployment insurance system
Nevada has HIGHEST unemployment rate in the nation at 5.8% (June 2025), well above national 4.2%. Tourism/hospitality-dependent economy vulnerable to cycles. UI system functional but high claim volume.
BLS LAUS; NV DETR UI Performance Data
1
Veterans services
Nevada Department of Veterans Services (NDVS) provides compensation, pension, health services, housing, counseling, and employment programs. Property tax exemption for wartime veterans: $3,440 assessed value deduction for 2024-2025 (applicable to vehicle or real property taxes). Lombardo (son of USAF veteran, grew up near Nellis AFB) maintains personal connection to military community. Nevada has multiple military installations (Nellis AFB, Creech AFB, Fallon NAS). BLM extended 20-year withdrawal of 2,126 acres for Nellis safety buffers. Veterans services adequate but rural NV access limited.
NV NDVS; NV property tax exemption records; BLM Nellis withdrawal; Military.com NV benefits; CSG Lombardo bio
2
Housing program effectiveness
Housing affordability deteriorating. Las Vegas metro home prices climbed 6% in past year. Lombardo vetoed rent control for seniors bill. Rising housing costs pushing some workers out of labor force.
Census ACS Housing Data; BLS CPI Las Vegas; NV Housing Division Reports
1
Corrections system
SIGNIFICANT PROBLEMS: NDOC facing $53M budget hole from $60M/yr overtime crisis. Vacancy rate 18.8% (down from 33% peak but still critical). Outside study recommended adding 750+ staff including 600 officers. 76 inmate deaths in 2025 — highest in 5+ years. Audit found 38,000+ unknown overtime hours costing up to $18.5M/yr. Prison population: 10,858 inmates (933 women, 9,925 men) as of end 2024. Officers criticizing state leaders through union. Hospital transport overtime a key cost driver. Food quality issues also flagged. Director acknowledged staffing shortages among 'many issues plaguing the system.'
NV NDOC; Nevada Independent NDOC reports; Nevada Current 4/2025 overtime; LVRJ overtime audit; Hoodline 2/2026
3
Federal funding captured
Nevada captured $2.7B in ARPA funds (96% allocated pre-Lombardo, $789M unspent as of Oct 2025). NDOT secured record $46.8M in redistributed FHWA funds. Major IIJA projects: I-15 South ($81M, 95% federal), I-15 Tropicana ($382M). $203M ARPA for broadband infrastructure, $100M for water projects. FEMA-4708-DR disaster funding secured. Opted into federal school choice tax credit program. However, ACFR delays caused federal anti-domestic violence funding to be frozen. Lombardo praised Biden-era infrastructure while criticizing 'disastrous policies.' Total federal aid ~$10B annually.
USASpending.gov — Nevada; FHWA; FEMA; Nevada Independent ARPA analysis; Nevada Current 3/2026 federal funding
3
Federal corrective action plans
Federal anti-domestic violence program funding frozen (July 2025) after Nevada failed to submit FY2023 and FY2024 fiscal audits — legislature backfilled funding. Medicaid unwinding system errors drew federal attention but CMS did not impose corrective action plan. NDOT federal highway program compliance maintained. No EPA enforcement actions. No HHS corrective action plans. ACFR delays represent most significant federal compliance risk — could trigger additional funding freezes if audits remain delinquent beyond FY2024.
Federal Agency Reviews — Nevada; Nevada Independent DV funding freeze; CMS state oversight; EPA compliance records
3
Interstate cooperation
Active Colorado River negotiations: Lombardo urged 7-state agreement in Dec 2025 letter to DOI Secretary Burgum. Nevada offered 17% allocation reduction (Arizona 27%, California 10%). States missed two deadlines for post-2026 operating guidelines without agreement. California, Arizona, Nevada committed to collectively reducing use by 1.25M acre-feet/year in 2024. Lombardo served as 2024 CSG National President — providing interstate leadership platform. BLM extended 20-year Nellis AFB land withdrawal (2,126 acres). Interstate cooperation on water rights remains most critical issue for Nevada.
Interstate Compact Records; Bureau of Reclamation; Governor's 12/2025 Colorado River letter; CSG 2024; BLM Nellis
3
Local government relations
Lombardo served as Clark County Sheriff (2015-2023) giving him deep relationships with Las Vegas metro officials. Clark County Commission now has only 1 Republican (April Becker, sworn Jan 2025). A's stadium deal required Clark County cooperation for $120M in county bonds. Signed AB48 (CCSD anti-bullying bill) allowing districts to move perpetrators. K-12 education budget: $12B biennial funding for districts. Clark County School District (5th largest nationally) benefits from $2,500/pupil increase (25%). 2025 special session addressed local government issues. Relationships functional despite partisan differences.
NV Association of Counties; Clark County Commission; LVRJ AB48; 8NewsNow K-12 budget; A's stadium legislation
2
Federal litigation costs
Minimal federal litigation costs. Nevada has not filed major federal lawsuits challenging federal policies. AG Aaron Ford (D) controls litigation decisions separately from governor. Nevada did not join multi-state lawsuit against federal immigration enforcement (unlike many blue states). Lombardo supported Trump administration's federal actions but did not initiate litigation to support them either. No significant court-ordered penalties or settlements from federal litigation during tenure. Colorado River negotiations remain non-litigious — all parties pursuing negotiated agreement.
NV AG Litigation Records; Federal court dockets — Nevada; Colorado River negotiation records
2
Constituent inquiry response
Governor's office maintains constituent services portal and public records request system at gov.nv.gov. Response times reportedly standard but no public metrics published. Aug 2025 ransomware attack disrupted constituent services across 60+ agencies for 28 days — DMV, Medicaid, and other public-facing services temporarily unavailable. Lombardo's office budget deficit eliminated through internal savings (reported Feb 2025). Office staffing adequate for constituent correspondence. No systematic complaints about response times in media reports.
Governor's Office; gov.nv.gov constituent portal; Nevada Appeal 2/2025 budget deficit; Governor's cyber recovery timeline
3
Town halls held
Lombardo delivered State of the State address Jan 2025 in Assembly Chambers. Served as 2024 CSG National President, attending interstate convenings. Convened '2024 Nevada Wildfire Briefing' with stakeholders. Conducted press conferences for emergency declarations, budget signings, and legislative actions. Community engagement includes Las Vegas metro events and rural Nevada visits. No formal 'town hall' program identified in public records, but regular stakeholder meetings and policy briefings held. Education stakeholder engagement around AB400 and school choice initiatives.
Governor's Office Schedule; State of the State 1/2025; 2News wildfire briefing; CSG 2024 president records
3
Constituent satisfaction
Approval ratings volatile: Morning Consult May 2025 showed 53% approve/30% disapprove; Emerson Dec 2025 showed 34% approve/36% disapprove/30% neutral. 2026 race polling: tied 41-41 with AG Aaron Ford (Emerson Nov 2025). Highest unemployment in nation (5.8% mid-2025) frustrates constituents. Housing costs rising (Las Vegas home prices up ~6%). Record 162 vetoes limited visible accomplishments. But: no personal scandals, strong law enforcement credibility, K-12 funding increased 25% per pupil. Constituent satisfaction bifurcated by party — Republicans approve, Democrats oppose.
Morning Consult 5/2025; Emerson College Polling 12/2025 and 11/2025; BLS unemployment; LVRJ housing; NV media
2
ADA compliance
State of Nevada maintains digital accessibility commitment through ADA compliance website (ada.nv.gov). DOJ published April 2024 update to ADA Title II rule clarifying WCAG 2.1 Level AA standards for state websites. State providing SiteImprove tool to municipalities for accessibility barrier scanning. DOJ monitored ADA compliance at Nevada polling places during 2024 elections. Courts updated ADA guidelines (Aug 2024). Aug 2025 ransomware attack temporarily disrupted accessibility of state digital services across 60+ agencies. No DOJ enforcement actions against Nevada during Lombardo's tenure.
DOJ ADA reviews; ada.nv.gov; DOJ Title II April 2024 update; DOJ polling place monitoring 2024; NV Courts ADA guidelines
3
Electoral accountability
Won 2022 election narrowly with 48.8% (vs 47.7% for Sisolak). First term — has not yet faced reelection.
NV Secretary of State — 2022 General Election Results
2

Section B — State Outcomes 460/975

13 categories measuring real-world outcomes: economic performance, population trends, fiscal health, public safety, education, healthcare, infrastructure, cost of living, transparency, controversy, historical context, constituent satisfaction, and immigration compliance.

BLS LAUS: NV unemployment 5.8% (June 2025) — HIGHEST in the nation, well above national 4.2%. Tourism/gaming-dependent economy inherently volatile. Dec 2024 Economic Forum projected $12.4B for FY26-27 general fund but May 2025 revision lowered by $102M (2.7%) — first mid-session decrease since 2009. Gaming tax revenue ran 8.7% above forecast through first 5 months of FY25. Las Vegas construction and gaming revenue strong ($15.5B statewide gaming win in 2024) but benefits concentrated in hospitality sector. Black unemployment 6.4% vs white 4.9% — significant racial disparity. BEA SAGDP: GDP growing but below national pace. Tesla Gigafactory, Switch data centers, and sports franchises (Raiders, Knights, Aces) diversifying economy.
Census 2025: Nevada population ~3,320,570 — grew 1.6% (53,000+ added), among fastest-growing states nationally. Since 2000, NV population grew 61.9% (2M to 3.25M, avg 2.58% annually). Clark County (Las Vegas metro) has 2.4M residents (73% of state), grew 4% since 2020, projected to add 550,000+ by 2043. Washoe County (Reno) at 500,000, growing 2.5%. Growth driven by California exodus (lower cost/taxes), remote work migration, retiree relocation, and business relocations (Tesla, Switch, other tech companies). Net domestic migration strongly positive. International migration also contributing. Growth rate decelerating (1.9% in 2024, projected 0.4% by 2043).
Rainy Day Fund fully funded at $1.24B — largest in NV history. Credit ratings stable (S&P AA-stable, Moody's Aa2). FY2024-25 biennial budget $11.6B (largest in state history); FY2026-27 $12.4B (7% increase). No income tax (NV Constitution Art. 10 §1). No structural deficit. Gaming tax revenue reliable (~30% of general fund). Commerce tax (2015) and Modified Business Tax provide diversified revenue. BUT: no income tax means limited counter-cyclical revenue tools during recessions — NV was hit hardest nationally in 2008 crisis. Heavy reliance on gaming and sales tax creates volatility risk. Conservative Economic Forum forecasting approach generally accurate.
FBI UCR 2024: NV violent crime rate 402 per 100K — above national average but at LOWEST level since 1986 (earliest FBI data). 29% decrease in violent crime rate from 1999 to 2024. LVMPD reported 107 homicides in 2024 (down 20% — lowest in years), clearance rate 65.79%. 2025 mid-year: 45 homicides — 30.6% drop from same period 2024. Car thefts down 14% (5,055 reports). Las Vegas metro violent crime declined faster than national trend. Lombardo's 34-year law enforcement career (former Clark County Sheriff 2015-2022) provides credibility. 1 in 233 chance of violent crime victimization in Las Vegas. BUT: overall NV crime rate still above most state comparators.
NAEP: Nevada scores below national average across most categories — among bottom 10 states. Per-pupil spending among lowest nationally despite Lombardo's 25% increase in K-12 per-pupil funding since taking office. Clark County School District (5th largest in U.S., 300,000+ students) continues to struggle with achievement gaps. Education Freedom Accounts (ESA revival via SB 252) failed to pass 2025 session — died at April 12 deadline. Nevada Accountability in Education Act (Apr 2025) proposed open enrollment, charter school expansion, $1M annual literacy fund, and Science of Reading mandates for teacher prep programs. Lombardo pushed school choice on campaign trail but Democratic legislature blocks ESAs. CCSD chronic absenteeism rates among worst nationally.
Census ACS: NV uninsured rate 10.2% (2023, above national 7.9%). Medicaid expansion in place (Silver State Health Insurance Exchange, ~700K+ enrolled). Medicaid unwinding completed 2024 — disenrollment of 170K+ with some re-enrollment disruptions. Healthcare provider shortages acute: NV ranks 48th in physicians per capita (rural NV among worst nationally). Only 1 Level I trauma center (UMC Las Vegas). Mental health crisis resources severely limited — NV ranks 51st (including DC) in mental health workforce availability. Drug overdose deaths elevated: fentanyl deaths increased 300%+ since 2019. CHIP FCEP adopted for prenatal care regardless of immigration status.
FHWA NBI: NV bridges in reasonable condition (fewer structurally deficient than national average). Las Vegas infrastructure expanding rapidly with population growth — I-15/I-11/I-215 interchange improvements underway. I-15 corridor congestion worsening (30%+ traffic increase decade). NDOT had $25M inventory discrepancy and vehicle misuse findings (audit). Lake Mead water supply stabilized at ~1,060 ft elevation after reaching crisis levels (1,041 ft in 2022) — long-term Colorado River vulnerability remains existential. IIJA delivering $4B+ in federal infrastructure funds over 5 years. Aug 2025 ransomware attack disrupted DMV and 60+ agency digital systems for weeks. Henderson and North Las Vegas expanding infrastructure for new residential development.
BEA RPP: Nevada cost of living slightly above national average (~103-105). Las Vegas median home price ~$430K — up ~6% year-over-year, pricing out service-sector workers who form the backbone of hospitality economy. Reno median home $520K+. No state income tax (NV Constitution Art. 10 §1) is major benefit — attracting CA refugees. But property tax and sales tax (8.375% in Clark County, among highest nationally) are significant. Energy costs moderate (NV Energy monopoly utility). Minimum wage $12/hr (effective Jul 2024). Cost of living increasingly challenging for tourism/hospitality workers earning median $35K in service occupations while housing requires $70K+ income. Net result: housing cost refugees from CA arrive but NV itself becoming unaffordable for low-wage workers.
Nevada Open Government website provides budget, checkbook, taxation, and economic reports. Nevada Accountability Portal (nevadareportcard.nv.gov) provides education data. Nevada Ethics Commission functional — Lombardo himself settled $5,000 ethics fine for campaign badge use (pre-gubernatorial). Public Records Act applies to all state/local entities with written or oral requests accepted. Las Vegas Transparency portal (lasvegasnevada.gov/Government/Transparency) provides city-level data. Budget documents public through Governor's Finance Office. Aug 2025 ransomware attack disrupted 60+ agency digital services temporarily, affecting public records access. No major transparency initiatives launched under Lombardo. Nevada Policy Research Institute has flagged transparency gaps in state spending reporting.
Record 162 vetoes (most by any NV governor in history) reflects deep partisan gridlock with Democratic-controlled legislature. Vetoed voter ID/ballot drop box compromise bill (AB 286) that he himself had negotiated — reversing his own position. Vetoed popular bills on paid leave (SB 312) and senior rent control. Highest unemployment rate in nation (5.8%, mid-2025) is major political liability. $5,000 Ethics Commission settlement for campaign badge use as Sheriff. BUT: zero personal scandals, zero criminal issues, zero corruption allegations across tenure. 10 of 17 cabinet appointees were Sisolak holdovers — criticized for insufficient change. Former CCSD superintendent hire controversy.
First Republican NV governor since Brian Sandoval (2011-2019). Predecessor Steve Sisolak (D, 2019-2023) was ONLY incumbent governor to lose in 2022 midterms — weighed down by COVID lockdown backlash and economic fallout. Lombardo won narrowly (48.8% vs 47.7%, 15,386-vote margin). Delivered $72M unemployment system modernization on time — contrasting Sisolak's unemployment system failures that helped cost him reelection. Record 162 vetoes are a historical distinction but reflect inability to work with legislature rather than achievement. Highest unemployment nationally (5.8%) is concerning legacy item. Maintained fiscal stability (Rainy Day Fund $1.24B, fully funded). No major personal scandals — unusual for NV politics. Kept 10 of 17 Sisolak cabinet appointees. Cook Political Report rates 2026 race a toss-up.
Approval ratings bifurcated: Morning Consult (May 2025) 53% approve / 30% disapprove; Emerson (Nov 2025) 34% approve / 36% disapprove / 30% neutral; Noble Predictive (Oct 2025) 45% favorable / 38% unfavorable. 2026 reelection polling: tied 41-41 with AG Aaron Ford (Emerson Nov 2025), slight lead 40-37 in Noble poll. Cook Political Report rates race toss-up — one of most vulnerable Republican governors. Won 2022 narrowly (48.8%, only 15,386-vote margin). Possible Sisolak rematch also discussed. Highest unemployment nationally (5.8%) frustrates constituents. Record 162 vetoes limit visible accomplishments. Las Vegas home prices up ~6% year-over-year. BUT: 25% K-12 per-pupil funding increase, Rainy Day Fund fully funded, no personal scandals provide positive case.
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Section C — Oath Fidelity +66 (-378 to +378)

126 items scored -3 to +3 measuring fidelity to constitutional oath. Grounded in Supreme Court precedent and constitutional text.

+3Exemplary +2Strong +1Adequate 0Neutral -1Concerning -2Failing -3Hostile

Protection of Life

Declaration of Independence; 5th/14th Amendments
Score: 13 Range: -93 to 93 Items: 31
Violent crime rate trend
NV violent crime rate at lowest level since 1986 per FBI UCR. LVMPD homicides down 20% in 2024, 30.6% further in first half 2025. Significant declining trend during tenure.
FBI UCR 2024; LVMPD crime stats
+2
Homicide rate relative to national average
NV homicide rate near national average. Las Vegas metro drives the rate up but 2024-2025 improvements closing gap. Rate within 15% above national average.
FBI UCR; CDC WONDER
0
Homicide clearance rate
LVMPD clearance rate 65.79% in 2024 — well above national average of ~50%. Strong investigative capacity from Lombardo's law enforcement legacy.
LVMPD Annual Report 2024; FBI SHR
+2
Law enforcement staffing adequacy
NV law enforcement staffing adequate in metro areas. LVMPD ~5,000 officers for 2.4M Clark County. Rural NV underserved. Lombardo's sheriff background informs priorities.
FBI LEOKA; BJS CSLLEA
+1
Drug overdose death rate trend
Fentanyl deaths increased 300%+ since 2019. Drug overdose deaths remain elevated despite some stabilization. NV above national average.
CDC WONDER; NCHS provisional data
-1
Emergency management preparedness
NV DEM effectively managed 2023 flooding, Hurricane Hilary preparation. FEMA-4708-DR secured. EMAP-level assessment not published but functional preparedness demonstrated.
FEMA SPR; NV DEM
+1
Preventable mass-casualty event response
Effective multi-county flood response 2023 with zero preventable deaths. Hurricane Hilary prep resulted in zero NV fatalities. Post-event reforms implemented. Ransomware response adequate.
FEMA DR-4708; NV DEM
+2
Infrastructure safety — bridge and road conditions
NV bridges in reasonable condition with fewer structurally deficient than national average. I-15 improvements underway. NDOT managing growth-driven demand.
FHWA NBI; NDOT
+1
Water and dam safety compliance
SNWA model water conservation — 58% per capita reduction since 2002. Lake Mead stabilized. No drinking water violations. Colorado River negotiations ongoing.
EPA SDWIS; SNWA; Bureau of Reclamation
+1
Healthcare access — uninsured rate
NV uninsured rate 10.2% (2023), above national 7.9%. Medicaid unwinding caused 170K+ to lose coverage temporarily. Rural provider shortages acute.
Census ACS; KFF
-1
Maternal mortality rate
NV maternal mortality rate near national average range of 25-30 per 100K. No major maternal health initiatives beyond standard programs.
CDC WONDER; NCHS
0
Infant mortality rate
NV infant mortality rate approximately 5.5-6.0 per 1K, near national average. Standard programs in place.
CDC WONDER; NCHS
0
Self-defense rights — Castle Doctrine / Stand Your Ground
NV has Castle Doctrine with no duty to retreat in the home and Stand Your Ground in any place lawfully present under NRS 200.120. Civil immunity provisions exist.
NRS 200.120; NRA-ILA
+2
Death penalty procedural safeguards
NV retains death penalty with mandatory appellate review. Post-conviction DNA access available. Clemency Board operates independently. No exonerations during tenure.
DPIC; NV clemency records
+1
Suicide prevention program funding and outcomes
NV suicide rate above national average. 988 integration underway. Behavioral health expansion ($17M for community clinics) helps but rate remains elevated.
CDC WISQARS; AFSP NV
-1
911/emergency response time adequacy
Urban response times adequate in Las Vegas metro. Rural NV faces significant response time challenges due to vast distances. Mixed statewide performance.
NFPA; NV EMS registry
0
Opioid/fentanyl interdiction and treatment funding
Fentanyl deaths up 300%+ since 2019. Some state response including behavioral health clinic expansion but opioid deaths not yet declining. Response underfunded relative to crisis scale.
SAMHSA; CDC WONDER; DEA
-1
Veteran suicide and healthcare access
NDVS provides compensation, pension, health, housing, counseling services. Property tax exemption for wartime veterans. Multiple military installations in NV. Adequate but not exemplary.
VA SAIL; NASDVA; HUD PIT
+1
Food safety and foodborne illness enforcement
NV food safety program maintains FDA conformance above 80%. No major outbreaks linked to inspection failures during tenure. Las Vegas hospitality industry drives high standards.
FDA; CDC FoodNet
+1
Workplace fatality rate
NV workplace fatality rate approximately 4.5-5.5 per 100K FTE due to mining, construction, and hospitality sectors. Near national average.
BLS CFOI; OSHA
0
Domestic violence fatality rate and funding
NV has DV programs but federal anti-DV funding was frozen due to missing ACFR filings. Legislature backfilled. DV rate near national average.
NNEDV; BJS DV stats
0
Correctional facility death rate and conditions
NDOC reported 76 inmate deaths in 2025 — highest in 5+ years. 18.8% vacancy rate causes delayed medical transport. $60M/yr overtime crisis. Outside study recommended 750+ new staff.
BJS Mortality; NV NDOC; Nevada Independent
-2
Pollution-related mortality and environmental health
Las Vegas metro meets EPA NAAQS. No Superfund cleanup crises. Air quality adequate. SNWA water conservation is national model. Minor nonattainment in some areas.
EPA Green Book; NV DEP
+1
Pedestrian and traffic fatality rate
NV traffic fatality rate above national average at approximately 1.4-1.7 per 100M VMT. Las Vegas tourism and pedestrian activity contribute to elevated rate.
NHTSA FARS; NV DOT
-1
Sanctity of life legislative framework
NV codified abortion rights by 1990 voter referendum (Question 7, 63.5%) protecting abortion to 24 weeks. Amendable only by voter referendum. Lombardo took no action either direction — neutral.
Guttmacher; NV Question 7 (1990)
0
Homeless mortality — exposure deaths, overdoses in encampments, violence
Broke ground on transformative homelessness center providing services and shelter. Clark County homelessness up 20% but invested in campus-style housing.
Nevada Independent
+1
Population loss impact on services — EMS/hospital closures, tax base erosion
Nevada population growing, not declining. No significant hospital/EMS closures from population loss.
Nevada demographic data
0
Police staffing/funding — governor's direct actions on law enforcement
Former sheriff. Delivered double-digit pay increases for law enforcement. Nevada saw 10% drop in violent crime including fewer murders (-9%), robberies (-26%).
Nevada Independent
+2
Criminal recidivism from early release — parole/clemency, no-cash-bail
Pushed Crime Reduction Act (SB 412) increasing penalties for drug dealers. Sought to repeal 2019 AB 236 that eased theft penalties.
Nevada Independent; Nevada Current
+1
Prison/shelter housing — biological males in women's facilities
Signed SB 153 requiring prisons to house transgender inmates based on gender identity. Later vetoed two trans protection bills in 2025. Mixed record.
8 News Now; Nevada Current
-1
Mental health crisis system — involuntary commitment reform, crisis intervention
Advocated shifting mental health/crisis calls from police to trained professionals. Built homelessness center with wraparound services.
Nevada Independent
+1

Constitutional Rights

Bill of Rights (Amendments I-X); 14th Amendment incorporation
Score: 16 Range: -87 to 87 Items: 29
Second Amendment — right to carry status
NV is shall-issue with objective criteria. Not constitutional carry but Bruen-compliant permitting. Lombardo vetoed Democratic gun restrictions but did not advance permitless carry.
NV statutes; USCCA
+1
Second Amendment — semi-automatic rifle restrictions
No semi-automatic rifle restrictions in NV beyond federal law. Lombardo vetoed attempted bans from Democratic legislature. Protected Heller 'common use' standard.
NV statutes; ATF
+2
Second Amendment — magazine capacity restrictions
No magazine capacity restrictions in NV. Lombardo vetoed Democratic attempts at capacity limits. Full standard-capacity access maintained.
NV statutes; NRA-ILA
+2
Second Amendment — Red Flag / ERPO due process
NV enacted ERPO (AB 291, 2019) with ex parte provisions. Preponderance standard with limited due process protections. Lombardo inherited law and has not reformed it.
NV ERPO statute; due process analysis
-1
First Amendment — campus free speech protections
No campus free speech statute enacted. NSHE universities have standard speech policies. No documented suppression incidents but no proactive protections either.
FIRE rankings; NV legislation
0
First Amendment — anti-SLAPP protections
NV has anti-SLAPP statute (NRS 41.637) with fee-shifting provisions. Moderate scope — covers most protected expression. Used in gaming industry litigation.
NRS 41.637; Public Participation Project
+1
First Amendment — religious liberty protections
No state RFRA enacted. General respect for religious exercise. No documented COVID-era church closure issues specific to Lombardo (predecessor's issue). No active restrictions or protections.
NV statutes; Becket Fund
0
Fourth Amendment — warrant requirements for digital surveillance
NV relies on federal Carpenter standard without state enhancement. No comprehensive state electronic privacy statute. Standard Fourth Amendment compliance.
NV statutes; EFF
0
Fourth Amendment — civil asset forfeiture reform
NV has some forfeiture reform (2019 legislation) requiring clear and convincing evidence. Moderate protections. Equitable sharing still permitted.
IJ Policing for Profit; NV statutes
0
Fifth Amendment — eminent domain protections post-Kelo
NV enacted post-Kelo reform restricting economic development takings. NRS 37.010 provides protections. A's stadium deal used public financing rather than eminent domain.
NRS 37.010; IJ data
+1
Due process — regulatory takings and permitting timelines
EO 2023-003 froze new regulations; 1,149 regulations streamlined. Regulatory burden reduced. Permitting generally functional though ransomware attack disrupted DMV.
NV Admin Code; Governor's EO records
+1
Tenth Amendment — federal overreach resistance
Mixed posture. Lombardo cooperates with federal government on most issues. Declined to send Guard to Texas border (broke with GOP governors). Supported some Trump-era federal initiatives. Not aggressive on sovereignty.
Governor's EO records; multistate litigation
0
Equal Protection — state contracting nondiscrimination
NV maintains standard nondiscrimination requirements. No specific SFFA compliance initiative. No documented race-based program expansion. Neutral posture.
NV procurement data
0
Second Amendment — state preemption of local firearms laws
NV has partial state preemption of local firearms laws (NRS 244.364) but Clark County has imposed some local restrictions. Preemption exists but enforcement mechanism limited.
NRS 244.364; NRA-ILA
+1
First Amendment — government transparency and FOIA compliance
Governor's office provides public records portal. Checkbook.nv.gov launched. But vetoed inaugural committee donor disclosure twice and ransomware transparency was slow.
NV AG Public Records; Nevada Independent
+1
Sixth Amendment — public defender funding adequacy
NV public defender system functional. Clark County and Washoe County PD offices staffed. Caseloads elevated but within manageable range. No documented Sixth Amendment crisis.
Sixth Amendment Center; NV PD data
0
Eighth Amendment — bail reform and pretrial detention
NV has standard cash bail system with some reforms. No extreme either direction. Basic pretrial system functioning.
Pretrial Justice Institute; NV court data
0
Property rights — regulatory burden and economic freedom
EO 2023-003 regulatory freeze and review resulted in 1,149 regulations streamlined — most aggressive deregulation in recent NV history. No income tax. Below-average regulatory burden.
Mercatus RegData; NV Admin Code
+2
Second Amendment — governor's litigation posture on firearms cases
AG Ford (D) controls litigation independently. Lombardo has not pushed anti-2A litigation. Vetoed gun control bills. AG has not filed major anti-2A amicus briefs under Lombardo's tenure.
NV AG litigation; state court dockets
+1
First Amendment — compelled speech protections
No compelled speech mandates enacted under Lombardo. No specific protections enacted either. Neutral environment.
NV statutes; FIRE
0
Commerce Clause compliance — interstate trade barriers
EO 2023-004 ordered licensing reciprocity. NV participates in interstate compacts. CSG presidency promoted interstate cooperation. No documented barriers.
IJ; NV reciprocity agreements
+1
Privileges and Immunities — occupational licensing reform
EO 2023-004 ordered all licensing boards to justify requirements and establish reciprocity. 79% of 1,149 regulation changes enacted. Military spouse licensing expedited. Significant reform.
IJ License to Work; NV licensing data
+2
Contract Clause — state compliance with contractual obligations
PERS funded ratio 75.6% (FY2024), making 100% of ARC. Credit ratings stable AA+/Aa1 range. No documented contract impairments. Pension below 80% threshold.
NV PERS ACFR; Pew pension data
+1
Jury trial rights — civil and criminal jury access
Standard jury access maintained in NV. No courthouse closures or significant diversion to administrative tribunals. Average environment.
NV court reports; NCSC
0
Immigration law compliance — Supremacy Clause adherence
NV is SANCTUARY STATE under SB 538 (2019). Selective ICE cooperation only. No E-Verify mandate. DL for unauthorized (SB 303). In-state tuition + state aid for unauthorized (SB 419). 10% unauthorized workforce — highest nationally. Lombardo opposes but constrained by Democratic legislature.
8 USC §1373; NV SB 538; FAIR sanctuary database
-3
Qualified immunity / due process for officers
Nevada Supreme Court ruled state cannot raise qualified immunity. Lombardo has not pushed legislation either way.
Clark Hill PLC; Shouse Law
0
Voter ID and ballot chain-of-custody
Publicly and financially supported 2024 ballot question requiring voter ID (passed overwhelmingly). Vetoed compromise drop box bill for insufficient security.
Nevada Independent; Review-Journal
+1
Non-citizen voting prevention
Supported voter ID initiative which indirectly addresses non-citizen voting. No standalone action.
Nevada Independent
0
Women's sports / Title IX — biological sex protections in state-funded athletics
Leading 2026 ballot initiative to amend Nevada Constitution to block transgender athletes from girls'/women's sports. Joined multi-governor letter to NCAA.
Nevada Independent; Washington Times
+2

Child Welfare & Parental Rights

Meyer v. Nebraska (1923); Pierce v. Society of Sisters (1925); Troxel v. Granville (2000); Wisconsin v. Yoder (1972); Parham v. J.R. (1979); 14th Amendment substantive due process
Score: -1 Range: -75 to 75 Items: 25
Parental rights legislation — statutory recognition
SB 314 (2025) proposed defining parental rights as fundamental in NV law. Lombardo supportive but bill blocked by Democratic legislature. No comprehensive parental rights statute.
NV Legislature; NCSL
0
Education choice — school choice programs
AB400 created NV Office of School Choice, expanded Opportunity Scholarships to $50M ($8,469/student cap). Opted into federal school choice tax credit. But ESA revival (SB 252) died in 2025 session.
EdChoice; NV Legislature AB400
+1
Parental notification/consent for medical procedures on minors
NV has standard parental consent for major procedures with typical mature minor exceptions. No significant changes during Lombardo's tenure.
NV statutes; Guttmacher
0
Gender-transition procedures for minors — restrictions
No legislation restricting or expanding gender-transition procedures for minors enacted. NV Medicaid does not specifically cover pediatric transition. Neutral position.
NV legislation; CMS data
0
Child abuse and neglect — substantiated case rate trend
NV child abuse rate near national average. DCFS managing caseloads. No dramatic trend change during tenure. Standard programs in place.
ACF NCANDS; NV DCFS
0
Foster care — CFSR conformity assessment
NV foster care outcomes below national averages historically. CFSR performance mixed. Extended foster care to 21 (SB 504, 2025) is positive but system remains challenged.
ACF CFSR; NV DCFS
-1
Foster care — permanency outcomes
Average stay 13.8 months. SB 187 reformed TPR procedures. Approximately 400 children in rural NV foster care. Permanency outcomes near but not above national standards.
ACF AFCARS; NV DCFS
0
Child trafficking prevention and prosecution
NV AG has active human trafficking unit. Las Vegas metro has significant enforcement due to entertainment industry. Safe harbor provisions exist. Sanctuary law complicates some cases.
Polaris; Shared Hope; NV AG
+1
Education outcomes — 4th grade NAEP reading proficiency
NV NAEP reading scores among bottom 10 states nationally. Well below 24% proficient threshold. CCSD chronic absenteeism among worst nationally.
NCES NAEP
-2
Education outcomes — 8th grade NAEP math proficiency
NV NAEP math scores below national average but not in bottom tier. Approximately 20-24% proficient range.
NCES NAEP
-1
Parental curriculum transparency
NV has general curriculum access on request. No comprehensive transparency statute. Some opt-out provisions through district policies. Average environment.
NV education code; NSBA
0
Social media — minor protections
No specific state social media minor protection legislation enacted. Reliance on federal COPPA baseline. No proactive measures during tenure.
NCSL tracker; NV legislation
0
Juvenile justice — age-appropriate treatment
NV juvenile jurisdiction to 18. Limited mandatory transfer provisions. Juvenile justice reform ongoing. AB 48 addresses school bullying with perpetrator transfer provisions.
OJJDP; NV juvenile statutes
+1
Child poverty rate and state response
NV child poverty rate approximately 17-19%, above national average. Tourism-dependent economy creates income volatility for families with children.
Census ACS SAIPE; KIDS COUNT
-1
Adoption and permanency — adoptive family support
NV has subsidized adoption and standard home study process. Clark County Foster Kinship provides post-adoption support. No faith-based agency protection statute.
ACF AFCARS; Dave Thomas Foundation
0
Homeschool rights and protections
NV requires notification only for homeschooling. No curriculum mandates or mandatory testing. Relatively permissive framework consistent with parental rights.
HSLDA; NV statutes
+1
Child sexual abuse material enforcement
NV participates in ICAC task force. AG maintains enforcement. Las Vegas metro ICAC unit active. Standard enforcement levels.
ICAC; NCMEC; NV AG
+1
School safety — violence prevention and incident response
AB 48 (2025) anti-bullying bill signed. SRO programs in Clark County schools. Threat assessment programs exist. K-12 funding increased 25% per pupil. Some safety investments.
NASRO; NV school safety legislation
+1
Children's mental health services access
NV ranks among worst states for mental health workforce availability (51st including DC). $17M behavioral health clinic expansion helps but counselor ratios remain poor.
ASCA; SAMHSA profiles
-1
Childhood vaccination — parental choice protections
NV allows religious and medical exemptions for school vaccination requirements. No philosophical exemption but religious exemption provides meaningful parental choice.
NCSL; NV immunization statutes
+1
Child care affordability and access
NV child care subsidy program functional. Moderate waitlists. Cost of childcare significant relative to service-sector wages. Average performance.
ACF CCDF; NWLC
0
Education — teacher quality and retention
NV faces significant teacher shortages, especially CCSD. Emergency certifications used. Teacher pay below regional average. Per-pupil increase helps but retention challenges persist.
NCES; NEA salary rankings; NV DOE
-1
Child nutrition — food insecurity rate
NV child food insecurity rate approximately 18-20%. Above national average. School meal programs functioning but gaps in summer and rural areas.
USDA ERS; Feeding America
-1
Custody and family court — due process in child removal
NV family court system functional. SB 187 reforms TPR procedures with proper timelines. Standard due process protections in place. No documented systemic issues.
NV family court statutes; ABA
0
Children with disabilities — IDEA compliance
NV IDEA compliance rated 'Needs Assistance' by OSEP with improvement plan on track. Standard compliance. Most districts meeting basic requirements.
OSEP determinations; IDEA Part B data
0

Faithful Discharge of Duties

Gubernatorial oath: 'I will faithfully discharge the duties of the office'; Article IV, Section 4; state constitutional requirements
Score: 38 Range: -123 to 123 Items: 41
Budget balance — structural surplus/deficit
NV budgets balanced both sessions (FY2024-25 $11.6B, FY2026-27 $12.4B). Rainy Day Fund fully funded at $1.24B. No structural deficit. No one-time revenue gimmicks.
NV CAFR; NASBO
+2
State credit rating stability
NV maintains AA+/Aa1 range — highest in state history. Stable outlook. But Moody's flagged late ACFR filings as governing weakness. No upgrades or downgrades during tenure.
S&P; Moody's; Fitch
+1
Rainy day / budget stabilization fund adequacy
Rainy Day Fund $1.24B (Sept 2024), projected $1.665B by FY2027. At approximately 10-12% of general fund. Cap raised to 26% of appropriations. Statutory protection. Fully replenished from pandemic depletion.
NASBO; Pew; NV Treasurer
+3
Pension system funding responsibility
PERS funded ratio 75.6% (FY2024). Making 100% of ARC. Investment return 12.1% in FY2024. Contribution rates increasing. Below 80% threshold but trending positively.
NV PERS ACFR; NASRA
+1
State debt burden
NV per capita debt below national median. GO debt $1.2B. Constitutional cap at 10% of assessed valuation. No major new issuance. Debt-to-GDP below 7%.
Census; Moody's; NV Treasurer
+1
Government efficiency — state employee headcount per capita
NV state workforce below national median per capita. Vacancy rate halved from 33% to 13% through pay raises rather than bloating headcount. Efficient staffing approach.
Census Public Employment; BLS
+1
Inspector General / state auditor independence
LCB Audit Division operates independently. Conducted NDOT, NDOC, pandemic relief audits without interference. NDOT accepted all 10 recommendations. Governor responsive to findings.
NV Legislative Auditor; ALGA
+2
Ethics violations and personal scandals
One ethics complaint upheld — $5,000 settlement for campaign badge use (non-willful). No criminal issues. No corruption. Minor sanction only.
NV Ethics Commission; court records
+1
Executive order restraint
12+ EOs focused on deregulation and regulatory review. Zero struck down by courts. Below historical norms. EOs addressed legitimate executive functions (regulatory reform, emergency management).
NV EO database; court rulings
+2
Emergency powers — adherence to statutory limits
All emergency declarations within statutory limits. 2023 flood emergencies appropriately scoped and terminated. No extended emergency powers. No court challenges to emergency actions.
NV emergency statutes; EO records
+2
Legislative cooperation — veto override rate
Zero vetoes overridden despite record 162 vetoes. 0% override rate. Successfully prevented Democratic supermajority in 2024 elections.
NV Legislature; NCSL
+3
Judicial appointments — qualifications and process integrity
All judicial appointments through merit-based Commission on Judicial Selection. No appointees removed or disciplined. Standard quality maintained.
NV Commission on Judicial Selection; state bar
+2
Timely execution of laws — implementation of enacted legislation
Generally timely implementation of signed legislation. Record 162 vetoes mean fewer laws to implement. Regulatory freeze review completed with 79% implementation rate. Some delays in NDOC reforms.
NV agency rulemaking; legislative oversight
+1
Federal fund utilization — grant management
ARPA: $789M unspent of $2.7B as of Oct 2025 with Dec 2026 deadline. ACFR delays caused federal DV funding freeze. NDOT federal highway funds well-managed. Mixed performance.
Federal Audit Clearinghouse; USAspending
0
Public approval as competence indicator
Approval volatile: Morning Consult 53%/30% (May 2025), Emerson 34%/36% (Dec 2025). Average across tenure approximately 40-45%. Toss-up reelection race.
Morning Consult; Emerson
0
State IT security and data protection
MAJOR FAILURE: Aug 2025 ransomware attack disrupted 60+ agencies for 28 days. Hackers entered system 3 months before detection. 10% data lost. Post-attack: AB1 cybersecurity framework signed, SOC created. But breach was severe.
NASCIO; state auditor IT; Governor's AAR
-2
Infrastructure spending — capital budget execution
Major capital projects advancing: I-15 improvements, FHWA record redistribution. NDOT execution adequate. ASCE grade for NV approximately C+. Backlog managed.
ASCE; NDOT; budget execution
+1
Disaster fund readiness
Rainy Day Fund $1.24B provides strong disaster finance capacity. FEMA cost-share met for DR-4708. Pre-positioned resources for Hurricane Hilary. Adequate reserves.
FEMA BRIC; NV emergency fund
+2
Workforce development — unemployment system integrity
NV has HIGHEST unemployment nationally at 5.8% (June 2025). UI system functional but high claim volume. $72M system modernization delivered. Trust fund adequate but economy tourism-dependent and volatile.
DOL UI Data; NV DETR
-1
Medicaid program integrity
Medicaid unwinding errors affected 170K+. System glitches caused erroneous disenrollments. Health exchange audit found material weaknesses. Rate increases and expansion positive. Mixed performance.
CMS PERM; NV DHCFP; state auditor
0
Election administration — constitutional compliance
NV uses paper ballots with audit capability. No voter ID requirement. Automatic voter registration. Vetoed voter ID compromise bill (AB 286). Standard election administration without ID requirement.
EAC EAVS; Verified Voting
0
Transparency — state budget accessibility
Budget.nv.gov and checkbook.nv.gov provide comprehensive spending data. Controller launched Open Finance Portal Feb 2024. Good forward-looking transparency but ACFR 777 days late.
U.S. PIRG; GFOA; Sunlight Foundation
+2
Intergovernmental cooperation — federal compliance balanced with sovereignty
CSG National President 2024. Colorado River negotiations show interstate leadership. Cooperates with federal government generally. Mixed on immigration enforcement due to sanctuary law.
NGA; CSG; federal compliance records
+1
Gubernatorial succession and continuity planning
LG Stavros Anthony confirmed. Standard COOP plan exists. Ransomware attack tested continuity — agencies recovered within 28 days. Succession clear.
NV Constitution; FEMA COOP
+1
Anti-corruption — state procurement integrity
Competitive bidding maintained. A's stadium consultant conflict raised concerns. NDOT procurement gaps identified in audit. No procurement scandals. Minor oversight issues.
NV Procurement; state auditor; ethics commission
+1
Gas price burden — state gas taxes, refinery regulations, cap-and-trade
Proposed gas tax holiday. Nevada state gas tax 23.81 cents/gallon (below average). No new gas taxes.
Review-Journal; Nevada Policy
+1
Energy affordability — residential electricity costs from state policy
Nevada electricity rates ~13-14 cents/kWh, ~28% below national average. Signed consumer protection bill against utility overcharges.
KTNV; EIA; EnergySage
+1
Energy policy competence — forced mandates without infrastructure readiness
Executive order for diversified energy policy including renewables AND natural gas. Pulled from restrictive climate compact.
NV Energy; Energy and Policy Institute
+1
Property tax burden — effective rate vs national median
Nevada effective property tax rate 0.48-0.49%, among lowest in nation. No new property tax increases.
SmartAsset; Tax Foundation
+2
Regulatory cost burden — permits, compliance costs per household/business
No major deregulatory push but also no significant new regulatory burden.
Nevada Independent
0
Unfunded mandates on municipalities
No significant new unfunded mandates on municipalities.
Nevada governance
0
Cost of living trajectory — policy-driven affordability trend
Mixed — Las Vegas relatively affordable but housing costs rising rapidly. Main initiative was gas tax holiday.
Nevada Independent
0
Immigration fiscal burden — taxpayer cost of sanctuary/benefits policies
Worked to remove Nevada from federal sanctuary jurisdiction list. Authorized National Guard to support ICE. Ordered Dept of Corrections to release 100% of ICE detainees.
Nevada Independent; Nevada Globe
+1
Homelessness spending accountability — spending vs measurable outcomes
Built transformative homelessness center campus. Invested in services-oriented approach with accountability.
Lombardo campaign; Nevada Current
+1
Encampment enforcement — response to SCOTUS Grants Pass ruling
Post-Grants Pass, at least 7 Nevada jurisdictions adopted camping bans. Lombardo did not obstruct local enforcement.
Planetizen; Nevada Current; Hoodline
+1
Net domestic migration trend — people leaving vs arriving
Nevada continues to gain population through domestic and international migration. Las Vegas metro remains attractive.
Nevada demographic data
+1
Business exodus — corporate HQ and jobs relocating due to policy
Nevada continues to attract businesses. No notable corporate exodus. Economy diversifying beyond gaming.
Nevada Independent; CSG
+1
DA accountability — governor's power to remove rogue prosecutors
No notable action on DA accountability.
Nevada governance
0
Election infrastructure — ballot harvesting, drop box security, audit transparency
Supported voter ID ballot initiative (passed 2024). Vetoed drop box expansion citing security concerns. Supports risk-limiting audits.
Nevada Independent; Ballotpedia; Review-Journal
+1
Weaponization of state agencies — using AG/regulatory bodies against political opponents
No significant evidence of weaponizing state agencies.
Nevada Independent
0
Foreign adversary protections — Chinese land, TikTok bans, Confucius Institutes
No notable action on Chinese land, TikTok bans, or Confucius Institutes.
Nevada policy records
0
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