Lombardo Criticized for Alleged Favoritism Toward Executive Steve Davis

Nevada Governor Faces Criticism Over Alleged Preferential Treatment

Nevada’s Governor, Joe Lombardo, is under scrutiny following allegations of favoritism towards business executive Steve Davis. Davis, known for his role in the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), has come under the spotlight due to his influence in significant federal budget cuts.

Since the beginning of the year, DOGE has overseen substantial reductions in federal programs, impacting numerous Nevadans. The cuts have resulted in job losses for thousands of federal employees within the state.

Between January and May 2025, Davis served as the de facto leader of DOGE. He is also recognized for his previous position as president of The Boring Company (TBC), tasked with creating an underground tunnel system beneath Las Vegas utilizing Tesla vehicles.

In a December 2024 incident, two firefighters from Clark County sustained injuries during a training session in one of TBC’s tunnels. The injuries, attributed to chemical exposure used in TBC’s construction processes, resulted in burns and lasting scars. Some TBC employees also suffered chemical burns.

The Nevada Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) penalized TBC with a $400,000 fine for unsafe working conditions and inadequate protective gear for workers. Shortly after the fine was imposed, Davis reportedly contacted Lombardo’s office. By the following month, the fines were dismissed without much clarification, as reported by Fortune magazine.

A retired International Association of Fire Fighters union member, Mike Pilchner, expressed his concern to KVVU, stating, “I’m deeply alarmed by what appears to be interference in Nevada’s workplace safety.”

Lombardo has previously commended Davis’ contributions to DOGE, stating in February 2025 through his press office, “We need DOGE reforms in Nevada!”

Davis advocated for cuts to medical research funding, including a $120 million reduction that jeopardized a vital drug overdose prevention study in Nevada universities.

Additionally, DOGE ended an $8.4 million grant aimed at supporting mental health services for homeless children in Nevada, affecting approximately 15,000 children with unstable housing, according to the Nevada Home Alliance.

In March, DOGE laid off all General Services Administration (GSA) employees in Nevada, including those at Lake Mead National Recreation Area responsible for ensuring water quality, as reported by local sources. USDA and Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) staff in Nevada faced similar layoffs.

Although Davis no longer holds an official position within DOGE, reports suggest he continues to be consulted on significant agency decisions.

Governor Lombardo, who is seeking reelection next year, is likely to face state Attorney General Aaron Ford as his Democratic opponent.