In a State of the State address, Governor Joe Lombardo laid out a vision for conservative governance that prioritizes tangible results over political theater.
The speech, delivered Wednesday evening in Carson City, demonstrated how traditional conservative principles can address modern challenges through careful stewardship rather than sweeping declarations.
Lombardo drew a direct line between Nevada’s pragmatic past and its present needs, saying:
“100 years ago….almost to the day…. Nevada Gov. James Scrugham wrote to the Nevada Legislature in his State of the State message that economic progress should not be restrained ‘by burdensome legislation, excessive taxation or unnecessary interferences,'”
The numbers tell a compelling story of strategic management.
Nevada now employs a record 1.6 million residents, while the state’s Rainy Day Fund has reached an unprecedented $1.3 billion – a dramatic improvement from being completely drained during the pandemic.
These achievements reflect what Lombardo calls “the Nevada Way,” describing it as a belief that :
“if we believe in ourselves sufficiently enough and trust one another to overcome adversity no matter the order of magnitude, we shall never fail.”
His approach to fiscal management shows this philosophy in action – and his blunt assessment captured both his style and results.
“To put it simply…. we’re getting ‘sh*#% stuff’ done,” Lombardo declared, drawing knowing chuckles from the assembly after diplomatically editing his now-famous phrase moments after elementary school children had performed the state song.
This straight-talking moment exemplified Lombardo’s focus on practical achievements over polished rhetoric.
Housing
Housing affordability emerges as a central challenge in Lombardo’s agenda, with the governor taking direct aim at federal land policies that restrict Nevada’s growth.
Lombardo explained:
“With over 80 percent of our state under federal control, bureaucratic delays have driven up costs and shut down opportunities,”
The Nevada Housing Attainability Act represents a market-oriented solution that avoids heavy-handed mandates, prioritizing:
“state funding that will support 1 billion dollars in new attainable housing units across Nevada,”
It targets development specifically for Nevada residents – “not out-of-state investors looking to cash in.”
Education
On education, Lombardo builds on last session’s “largest education investment in our state’s history” while pushing for more parental choice.
His Nevada Accountability in Education Act aims to free students from being:
“trapped in a failing school because of their ZIP code or held down because of how much their parents or grandparents earn.”
The plan includes expanded open enrollment with transportation support and rewards for high-performing teachers through an Excellence in Education Fund.
Public Saftey
On public safety, Lombardo brings his sheriff’s experience to bear with the Safe Streets and Neighborhoods Act, highlighting an unexpected comparison.
“Imagine a world where California is tougher on criminals than Nevada. That’s the reality we face today,”
The governor pointed out how California voters recently approved stricter measures on smash-and-grab crimes. To restore law and order, his legislation reduces the felony theft threshold and implements enhanced penalties for repeat offenders, regardless of value.
The comprehensive bill also strengthens DUI laws, domestic violence protections, and bail policies.
Election Integrity
The governor took aim at election reform, building on his successful push for voter ID, which:
“received more total votes than any candidate or any question on the 2024 ballot.”
He’s now targeting post-election day ballot counting, arguing :
“it makes ZERO sense to keep counting ballots four days after an election.”
Working with Secretary of State Cisco Aguilar, he’s pushing for all votes to be counted by Election Day – and if the Legislature won’t act, he’ll take this issue directly to voters too.
Healthcare
On healthcare, Lombardo announced the creation of the Nevada Health Authority to manage Medicaid, health insurance exchanges, and mental health funding, aiming to:
“cut a better deal for taxpayers while offering better insurance options.”
Policy>Partisan Pandering
Looking ahead, the success of Lombardo’s agenda will depend on his ability to maintain this balanced approach while working with a Democratic-controlled legislature. His call for collaboration was clear:
“Before some of you say ‘no’; work with me…. collaborate with my agency heads…. ask questions….give input….offer alternatives…. and set aside partisan politics.”
For a state that has emerged stronger from the pandemic but still faces significant challenges in housing, education, and public safety, this emphasis on achievable results over ideological purity offers a practical path forward that stays true to conservative principles while acknowledging political realities. “
Lombardo reminded legislators:
“In five months, we will be judged – you and me – by the results we achieve together,”
Judging by his record of turning challenges into achievements, Lombardo’s motto of getting ‘stuff’ done – diplomatic language optional – continues to define his leadership.
This article was written with the assistance of AI. Please verify information and consult additional sources as needed.
