Governor Lombardo’s Controversial Decisions and Subsequent Donations
Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo’s recent actions have come under scrutiny as campaign finance records reveal substantial contributions from special interest groups following some of his most contentious decisions. This pattern raises questions about Lombardo’s allegiance to his donors versus his constituents.
Water Regulator’s Firing and Mining Industry Pressure
Adam Sullivan, Nevada’s chief water regulator for over six years, was unexpectedly dismissed in December 2025. Sullivan, responsible for dam and well safety and water access law enforcement, was the first regulator in 44 years to be fired. “It was a shock,” Sullivan remarked upon his termination. Prior to his dismissal, Lombardo’s office received numerous complaints from mining companies regarding Sullivan’s proposal to reduce groundwater pumping in the Humboldt River Basin, citing potential water shortages. However, mining companies, including Nevada Gold Mines, opposed this plan due to its impact on their operations.
Nevada Gold Mines, based in Elko, made significant financial contributions, donating $500,000 to a pro-Lombardo PAC in 2024. Following Sullivan’s firing, the company donated another $500,000 in March, and additionally contributed $10,000 to Lombardo’s reelection campaign in the same month.
Pharmaceutical Contributions Following Vetoes
In a parallel situation in 2023, Lombardo vetoed a bill that aimed to extend prescription drug savings to all Nevada residents, a move that would have significantly reduced medication costs. After this veto, Lombardo’s campaign and an associated PAC received over $80,000 from groups opposing the legislation. The following year, his PAC received $50,000 from the Healthy Nevada PAC, which represents pharmaceutical interests. Both Lombardo’s campaign and Healthy Nevada PAC utilize the same consultancy firm.
In June 2025, Lombardo vetoed another similar bill, leading to further pharmaceutical donations. Over $28,500 was directed to his reelection campaign, and nearly $130,000 was contributed to his PAC.
Housing Legislation and Financial Support from Developers
Lombardo also vetoed two bills, one in 2023 and another in 2025, aiming to establish new protections for renters by regulating eviction processes. Current Nevada law allows landlords considerable freedom in tenant evictions. These vetoes were followed by $5,000 donations from billionaire developer Robert Bigelow, a vocal opponent of tenant rights who spent approximately $30 million supporting Lombardo’s 2022 election. Bigelow, who owns an extended-stay apartment chain, opposed COVID-19 pandemic eviction moratoriums.
Lombardo also opposed housing bills, including one to cap rent increases for seniors and disabled individuals, citing potential economic growth stifling and property owner strain. Nevada is currently experiencing an affordable housing crisis, with homelessness rising by 17% between 2023 and 2024.
Upcoming Election and Opponent’s Priorities
Governor Lombardo is seeking a second term with Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford as his likely Democratic challenger. Ford’s campaign website prioritizes addressing high housing and healthcare costs. “Prescription drug costs have risen faster in Nevada than any other state,” it states. “As Governor, Ford will cap the cost of many prescription drugs at the Medicare-negotiated rate.”
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