Joe Lombardo — Republican Candidate for Governor in Nevada, 2026

Governor Joe Lombardo supports using the Nevada National Guard to aid federal immigration enforcement. He signed a criminal justice bill that expanded guardrails around immigration enforcement activities. This legislation also prohibits school districts from allowing immigration law enforcement access to school grounds or records without a warrant. Lombardo advocates for strategic enforcement, stating that the nation has a porous border and that individuals who have committed crimes should be removed. He also believes county sheriffs should determine their communities' immigration policies.

““In my opinion, we have a porous border. We have individuals who have committed crimes that the majority of folks in the nation, including immigrants, support the removal of,” Lombardo said during an IndyTalks interview.”

Governor Joe Lombardo supports expanding healthcare supply to reduce costs and improve access. He introduced the Nevada Healthcare Access Act (SB 495), proposing $60 million for grants to address shortages and support residency programs. The bill also aims to streamline insurance authorization, prohibiting prior authorization for emergency services and establishing a 'gold card' program for high-performing providers. Lombardo has vetoed drug price cap bills, arguing they drive up costs.

““The majority of graduates of residency programs, whatever state they occupy at that time, tend to stay in that state,” Lombardo said. (KUNR Public Radio, May 19, 2025)”

Governor Joe Lombardo’s "Nevada’s Climate Innovation Plan" focuses on energy production and economic development, aiming to mitigate environmental patterns while considering economic realities and national security. Lombardo stated his plan uses clean energy and efficiency to strengthen the state's future. It emphasizes a balanced energy approach, including continued natural gas use, to meet environmental objectives and keep costs low. However, critics claim his actions have weakened the state's climate plan.

“By harnessing clean energy, improving energy efficiency, and fostering economic growth, we’re establishing Nevada as a leader in climate solutions,” Lombardo said in an emailed statement. “By addressing these environmental challenges locally, we’re able to strengthen the future of our state for generations to come.”

Joe Lombardo identifies as "pro-life" and received an endorsement from the National Right to Life Committee. However, he has affirmed he will respect Nevada voters' 1990 decision to codify abortion rights up to 24 weeks. He signed legislation in 2023 to protect out-of-state abortion seekers from prosecution and prevents state agencies from assisting in related investigations. He believes abortion rights are "settled" law in Nevada.

Research pending more substantial sources.

Joe Lombardo champions "Opportunity Scholarships" and Education Savings Accounts to empower parents with alternatives to public schools. He signed a record education budget, securing $2 billion in funding and teacher pay raises. He also re-instituted the "read by grade three" program and signed a school safety bill into law. Additionally, he leads an initiative to amend the state constitution to block students born male from female sports.

“As millions nationwide come together to champion educational opportunities, I'm proud of the progress we've made in Nevada to expand school”

Governor Joe Lombardo vetoed Assembly Bill 105 in 2025, which aimed to prohibit guns at election sites. He cited that the bill duplicated existing protections against voter intimidation and that individuals legally authorized to carry firearms should maintain that right on election day. He had also vetoed a similar bill during the 2023 legislative session.

“In his veto message, Lombardo wrote, “AB 105 is commendable in its intent to enhance public confidence in the election process. However, like its predecessor, to that end this bill merely duplicates protections already established under both federal and state law against voter intimidation near polling places... While I appreciate the efforts by stakeholders during the session to include posting requirements so lawful gun carriers are aware when an election is taking place at a given location, AB 105 would only be reasonable if it ensured that individuals legally authorized to carry firearms on a daily basis retain that right on election day.” (Gov. Lombardo, Fox5Vegas, June 10, 2025)”