A rising Republican star just shook up Nevada politics with a surprise announcement that could strengthen conservative voices in Carson City. Assemblywoman Danielle Gallant announced yesterday that she’s running for the Nevada Senate District 20 seat that Senator Jeff Stone is vacating after deciding not to seek reelection in 2026.
A Different Kind of Campaign
Rather than stepping down, Gallant intends to “double up” her representation. Since the Senate district includes her current Assembly footprint, Gallant views the move as an expansion rather than a departure.
Gallant told followers on social media:
“I will continue to represent District 23, and I will also represent District 19. That gives me a stronger voice and a bigger vote.”
The Boulder City Republican, who first won her Assembly seat in 2022 with nearly 60 percent of the vote, seems confident this move will help her constituents by giving her more influence in the legislature.
Why This Seat Matters
Senate District 20 covers a big chunk of eastern Clark County, including Boulder City (where Gallant already represents), Laughlin, Mesquite, and parts of Henderson. It’s been a reliable Republican seat – Stone won it with almost 62 percent of the vote in 2022.
But here’s why conservatives should pay attention: Republicans need every seat they can get in the Nevada Senate. Democrats already control both chambers of the legislature, and they have come dangerously close to getting supermajorities in recent sessions.
A supermajority in the legislature would let them override Governor Lombardo’s vetoes and pass tax increases without any Republican input.
Stone’s retirement announcement last month caught many by surprise. After 33 years in public service, the Assistant Republican Leader said he’s ready to spend more time with family as he approaches his 70th birthday. His departure leaves a leadership void that Republicans need to fill quickly.
Who Is Danielle Gallant?
Before entering politics, Gallant worked as a therapist and now runs a real estate business. She brings a unique perspective to Carson City – she understands both the mental health challenges facing Nevada families and the housing crisis hitting our communities hard.
As a freshman legislator in 2023, Gallant didn’t sit quietly in the back row. She pushed for practical reforms like her “handyman bill” that would let contractors do jobs under $7,600 without permits or licensing – up from the current $1,000 limit that hasn’t changed in years despite inflation.
Gallant has been a prolific legislator, sponsoring AB 138 to improve child safety curriculum and AB 146 to protect parental rights in education. By combining her conservative credentials with a focus on practical property rights and community wellness, she positions herself as a legislator dedicated to cutting red tape while addressing the root causes of Nevada’s social challenges.
Her conservative credentials are solid. The Nevada Firearms Coalition and Boulder City Republican Women count her as a member. She’s focused on reducing regulations on businesses, improving education, and tackling the housing affordability crisis.
What You Can Do
If you live in Senate District 20, start paying attention to this race now. Consider attending town halls, asking candidates about their positions on taxes and government spending, and making sure your voter registration is up to date. Even small contributions help candidates build the war chest they’ll need for what’s sure to be an expensive race.
Holding District 20 isn’t just about one seat; it’s about keeping Governor Lombardo’s veto pen effective and stopping Democrats from gaining total control of state government.
The opinions expressed by contributors are their own and do not necessarily represent the views of Nevada News & Views. This article was written with the assistance of AI. Please verify information and consult additional sources as needed.
