A Growing Divide
Nevada Democrats are at a crossroads. Some party members think it’s time to challenge Senator Catherine Cortez Masto in a primary election. They believe the party needs fresh energy and competition rather than simply backing incumbents without question.
This isn’t just about one politician. It’s about the future of the Democratic Party in Nevada and maybe across the whole country.
The Shadow of the Reid Machine
For years, Nevada Democrats relied on what many call the “Harry Reid Machine” – the powerful political operation built by the late Senator Harry Reid. This well-oiled system helped Democrats win elections throughout Nevada for decades.
The Reid Machine was known for its strong ground game, union support, and ability to turn out voters in key areas of the state. It made Nevada a reliable blue state in many recent elections.
But now, some Democrats say this machine is breaking down. They point to recent election results as proof: Kamala Harris lost Nevada to Donald Trump in a state Trump had previously lost twice. Senator Rosen barely won against a weak opponent in 2024.
These warning signs suggest the Reid Machine isn’t working like it used to. Some Democrats believe it’s because the machine protects insiders like Cortez Masto instead of connecting with regular voters.
Trump’s Growing Appeal vs. Masto’s Fading Star
President Trump’s victory in Nevada shows just how much the political landscape has shifted. After losing Nevada in both 2016 and 2020, Trump finally broke through in 2024, winning the state by nearly 2 percentage points.
This win came as Cortez Masto’s own political standing seems to be weakening. In her 2022 reelection bid, she won by just 0.8% – about 8,000 votes out of nearly a million cast. This razor-thin margin was against a Republican opponent who was outspent and out-organized.
The contrast is telling: while Trump gained ground with Nevada voters, Cortez Masto nearly lost her seat despite the full weight of the Reid Machine behind her. Some Democrats now wonder if she can survive another election cycle, especially with the GOP’s growing appeal in the Silver State.
Why Cortez Masto is Facing Criticism
Critics point to Cortez Masto’s voting record as proof that she’s changed. She and Senator Jacky Rosen (D) often talk about working with Republicans, but some Democrats ask: at what cost? They’re upset about her support for bills like the Laken Riley Act, which they say hurts immigrants and goes against Democratic values.
What’s really bothering some Democrats is that Cortez Masto has immigrant roots herself, yet supported this bill that could make life harder for [criminal] immigrants under President Trump’s administration.
No Town Halls, No Answers
Another big complaint? Cortez Masto and Rosen haven’t held town hall meetings in years. This means regular folks can’t ask them tough questions about their votes or where they stand on important issues.
This lack of face-to-face meetings has created a gap between these senators and the people they represent. In these challenging political times, many Nevada Democrats want leaders who will stand up and be counted.
The complaints about senators avoiding town halls should matter to everyone. Senators represent the whole state and elected officials work for the people – not the other way around. When they hide from tough questions, our democracy suffers.
What Might Happen Next
Looking ahead, critics predict Cortez Masto will likely run for re-election in 2028 without facing any serious primary challenges because the remnants of the Reid Machine will protect her from competition. This limits voter choice and protects political insiders.
The fight for limited government isn’t just between parties – it’s happening within them too.
This article was written with the assistance of AI. Please verify information and consult additional sources as needed.
