Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo has tapped Swadeep Nigam once again to serve on the state’s Board of Osteopathic Medicine, giving him another four years in a key oversight role for Nevada’s healthcare system.
This isn’t Nigam’s first rodeo. He’s been serving on the board since 2017, and this latest appointment marks the third time a Nevada governor – of both parties – has asked him to stay on.
He’s not just a regular member either. Nigam is currently the Board’s Secretary and Treasurer, helping manage everything from regulations to licensing.
The Board of Osteopathic Medicine plays a big role in protecting patients. It licenses and monitors doctors and physician assistants who practice osteopathic medicine – an approach that focuses on whole-body care and includes hands-on treatment.
The Board makes sure these providers follow strict rules and ethical standards, and it has the power to issue warnings or discipline when those standards aren’t met.
In short, it’s an important job – and one where experience matters.
A Lifelong Republican with Deep GOP Roots
While his appointments have spanned both Republican and Democrat administrations, Nigam is no stranger to the conservative movement. He’s been a longtime supporter of Republican candidates and causes in Nevada and beyond.
He served as the Asian American outreach co-chair for the Nevada Republican Party and has helped mobilize minority communities for GOP campaigns over the years.
His work has focused on building bridges between the Republican Party and the state’s growing Asian American population – a voting bloc that has become increasingly important in close Nevada elections.
Nigam has also been a frequent speaker and panelist at conservative events focused on healthcare reform, fiscal responsibility, and government accountability.
He’s made a name for himself as someone who combines real-world business experience with public service.
And he’s not new to state government either.
Back in 2012, Gov. Brian Sandoval appointed him to the Nevada Equal Rights Commission, where he worked to uphold anti-discrimination laws in workplaces and public spaces.
Nigam’s background in healthcare, policy, and finance gives him a broad skill set.
He’s worked in senior roles for hospitals, insurance companies, and financial firms, and currently serves on the State Bar of Nevada’s Clients’ Security Fund Committee, which helps protect consumers from attorney misconduct.
Why This Matters
At a time when trust in public institutions is shaky, Lombardo’s decision to reappoint someone with a strong track record and bipartisan respect sends a clear message: competence still matters.
“Swadeep Nigam has proven time and again that he’s committed to serving the people of Nevada,” said a spokesperson for the Governor’s Office. “His knowledge and experience are a great asset to the Board.”
Nigam, for his part, said he’s honored to continue.
“It’s a privilege to serve the people of Nevada and support the integrity and excellence of our healthcare system,” he said in a statement.
Critics, of Course
Some progressives have quietly questioned whether reappointing long-standing board members limits fresh ideas. Others argue that the Board hasn’t done enough to discipline unethical providers.
But there’s been no major controversy tied to Nigam himself, and even critics admit his qualifications are hard to challenge.
A Conservative Pick with Broad Support
In today’s political climate, it’s rare to see someone who gets support across the aisle. But Nigam’s appointment is one of those cases.
He’s a Republican who’s earned praise from Democrats and Republicans alike – not because he changes his beliefs, but because he shows up, does the work, and keeps politics out of the job.
That’s something more people in public service could learn from. And in a healthcare system that’s under pressure from all sides – costs, access, red tape – having someone with steady hands at the wheel is a win for all Nevadans.
This article was written with the assistance of AI. Please verify information and consult additional sources as needed.
