Kelly Chapman is the Republican nominee for Nevada State Assembly District 8 in the upcoming November 5, 2024, general election. She’s challenging first-term incumbent Democrat Assemblyman Duy Nguyen.
NN&V: Why are you running?
Chapman: I’m fed up with the Democrats’ destruction of our beautiful state.
I’m fed up with Californians moving here and voting for the same policies that they had to escape from.
I’m fed up with judges handing out get out of jail free cards to criminals and gun control advocates trying to leave us defenseless.
I’m fed up with our kids being trapped in a failing public school system.
I’m fed up with skyrocketing prices of gas and groceries and stores having to lock up products or even shut down to stop rampant shoplifting.
I’ve lived in Las Vegas for 45 years. It’s time for the everyday Nevadan to step up and fight back. That’s why I retired from my casino pitboss career of 25 years and jumped into this race.
NN&V: What are your qualifications?
Chapman: As a candidate for Nevada Assembly District 8, I bring 25 years of experience working in high-pressure environments as a pit boss in Las Vegas casinos, which has sharpened my leadership, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
I have been a Las Vegas resident for 45 years, and also as a single mother, I understand the challenges faced by our community.
I’m also a passionate advocate for domestic violence victims and a firm supporter of Second Amendment rights, driven by personal experiences that have shaped my dedication to public service.
My life has been defined by hard work, commitment, and standing up for what’s right, and I’m ready to fight for the people of Nevada.
NN&V: Who is your opponent and what’s wrong with him/her?
Chapman: Duy Nguyen.
His lack of experience in the private sector should be a serious concern for voters in Nevada Assembly District 8. This inexperience raises doubts about his ability to represent the district effectively and navigate the challenges that come with addressing constituents’ needs.
Essentially a non-factor (and Democrat rubber-stamp), Nguyen’s lack of leadership skills means he isn’t be the kind of fighter the district needs to stand up for its residents and advocate for their interests in the state legislature.
NN&V: There will be a question on the November ballot asking if voters should provide a photo ID before voting. Do you support this question?
Chapman: Yes, I support the ballot measure asking voters to provide ID to vote.
Ensuring the integrity of our elections is critical, and requiring identification is a reasonable step to protect against fraud and to ensure that only eligible voters are participating in our democratic process. It’s a safeguard that strengthens trust in the system, while still allowing provisions for those who may need assistance in obtaining an ID.
NN&V: Gov. Joe Lombardo has stated that he will never raise taxes. Do you agree? Are there any taxes you think should be cut or eliminated?
Chapman: Yes, I agree with Governor Lombardo’s stance on not raising taxes. I’ve also signed the Taxpayer Protection Pledge to ensure that I stand firm against any tax increases.
NN&V: Donald Trump has proposed an end to taxing tips for service industry workers. Do you agree?
Chapman: Yes, I support no taxes on tips.
As someone who spent 25 years working in the casino industry, I know firsthand how crucial these gifts are to the livelihoods of so many hardworking Nevadans. People in the service industry depend on those tips to support their families.
If elected, I will advocate for policies that protect workers’ tips from being taxed and ensure they keep more of the money they earn.
NN&V: Last year, the Legislature passed measures to tightly regulate street vendors who sell food and beverages on street corners and elsewhere. Do you agree?
Chapman: I support maintaining a balance between ensuring public safety and fostering economic opportunities.
While I recognize the need for regulations to ensure that street vendors meet health and safety standards, I also believe it’s important to support small business owners and entrepreneurs. Therefore, I would advocate for measures that both protect the public and allow vendors to thrive, focusing on clear and fair guidelines rather than overly restrictive regulations.
NN&V: Democrats continue to put forward gun control measures in the Legislature. What is your position on the Second Amendment?
Chapman: I strongly support the Second Amendment. I believe in the fundamental right of individuals to protect themselves and their families, which is crucial for personal safety and freedom.
My support stems from a personal experience where a close friend was a victim of domestic violence. This tragedy reinforced my belief in the importance of having the means to defend oneself.
The Second Amendment is a cornerstone of our liberties, and I am committed to preserving this right for all responsible citizens.
NN&V: There appears to be a crime wave throughout America, including Nevada. What should be done to protect families and businesses?
Chapman: We must advocate for stricter penalties for repeat offenders. We must also repeal AB236, which raised the felony threshold for shoplifting from $650 to $1200, causing retail theft to skyrocket.
We should also bolster law enforcement with the best training and resources available, foster community partnerships, and support victim’s services. Investing in economic opportunities and education can help tackle the root causes of crime.
NN&V: What is your position on providing financial support to low-income families who would like to send their children to a private school?
Chapman: I believe in supporting all families in their pursuit of a quality education for their children.
Providing financial support to low-income families who wish to send their child to private school can be a valuable tool for ensuring that every child has access to the best possible education. By offering targeted assistance, we can help bridge the gap and provide more educational opportunities for students who might otherwise be left behind.
It’s important to approach this with a focus on accountability and ensuring that the support is used effectively to benefit the students.
NN&V: Illegal immigration is a big issue in the 2024 election cycle. Is there anything you would like to do to address this problem at the state level?
Chapman: Advocate for local law enforcement to work in cooperation with ICE.
Push for mandatory E-Verify systems for employers to ensure only legal residents get jobs.
Oppose sanctuary city policies and support legislation that prohibits local governments from enacting policies that restrict cooperation with federal immigration authorities.
Advocate for legislation that restricts access to state-funded benefits and services to legal residents only.
Focus on initiatives that prioritize the removal of illegals who commit crimes.
Change the state constitution to “only” citizens can vote.
NN&V: Race relations seem to have gotten worse in recent years rather than better. Any thoughts or suggestions for tackling this problem?
Chapman: End all DEI programs. Encourage people to judge by what is happening in their everyday lives, not what the news is telling them.
We should encourage open dialogue and collaboration between different communities. By promoting conversations and partnerships, we can build trust and address misunderstandings. Local events, community forums, and initiatives that bring people together can create a foundation for mutual respect and cooperation.
NN&V: Should biological males be allowed to compete in women’s sports?
Chapman: Absolutely not. I believe in preserving fairness in women’s sports by ensuring that biological men do not compete in women’s categories. It is important to uphold clear and fair standards to protect the integrity of women’s athletics and ensure equal opportunities for all female athletes.
NN&V: Democrats have made a concerted effort to make abortion their #1 issue again this election cycle. Where do you stand?
Chapman: Nevada voters have already made their decision that abortions are allowed until 24 weeks and only a vote of the people can change it.
NN&V: How can people get more information on your campaign?
You can visit my website at www.Chapman4Nevada.com
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