Saturday night in Las Vegas is never boring, but this one definitely had a little extra flair.
Not only did my dad, Chuck Muth, host his annual Conservative Awards Dinner at the Italian American Club — he also celebrated his 66th birthday.
Yep. Sixty-six. Which, in political years, is basically 150.
But he’s still running circles around most people half his age — even if he needs a little help with technical difficulties now and then.
The 2025 Conservative Awards Dinner brought in a packed crowd of conservatives from across the state.
We were there to celebrate the work of some incredible folks who’ve stayed committed to limited government and personal freedom — not always the trendiest gig these days, but definitely one of the most important.
This year’s honorees:
Conservative of the Year: Dave Gibbs
Dave Gibbs earned this award for his leadership in the Repair the Vote PAC campaign, which successfully pushed for a photo ID voting initiative (Question 7) on Nevada’s 2024 ballot. Since it’s a constitutional amendment, it must pass again in 2026 to take effect, unless the Nevada Legislature acts sooner.
Reagan Legacy Award: Grover Norquist
Grover Norquist, a prominent national conservative activist – Father of the Taxpayer Protection Pledge and founder of the Reagan Legacy Project – was recognized for his long-standing efforts to shrink government to the size where it’s “small enough to drown in the bathtub.”
Unsung Hero: Erica Neely
Erica Neely is honored for her determined and unwavering work advancing conservative goals in Nevada and almost knocking off Democrat Assembly Speaker Steve Yeager last November.
Rising Star: Lisa Cole
Freshman Assemblywoman Lisa Cole was celebrated as an emerging figure in Nevada’s conservative movement. Her potential for future office is unlimited.
Courage Under Fire: Scott Jennings
Scott Jennings – a conservative voice who nightly walks into CNN’s lion’s den and emerges with four or five left-wing pelts over his shoulder – was acknowledged for standing firm under pressure and making liberal heads explode.
Scott gave a fantastic speech — honest and full of perspective from someone who’s been in the thick of things. Funny, sharp, and thoughtful, the audience was undeniably engaged. You could feel the room connecting with every word.
Oh, and did I mention we had a clown? Like… an actual clown. Making balloon animals during our VIP cocktail hour.
Not something you expect at a political dinner, but if you know my dad, it totally tracks. Only in Vegas, and only Chuck Muth, right?
The Mic Mishap (Because There’s Always One)
As with any live event, there are hiccups— namely, my dad’s microphone started giving some feedback right in the middle of things.
I did a little tech-support-in-heels, held the mic while my dad did his thing, and did my best to wiggle the mic back into place during the next photo op.
I mean, if anyone could get away with interrupting him on stage to help with technical difficulties, I think it’s pretty much only me.
Meanwhile, Downtown…
Earlier that afternoon, over on the Strip, a “Hands Off!” protest was taking place.
From what I gathered, it was part of a nationwide effort protesting Trump, Musk, and the general state of our nation today.
It wrapped up before our event began, so by the time we were enjoying our Italian-sized meatballs, the chants had quieted.
I found the contrast kind of funny, a protest of the current administration down one street, and a celebration of it – more notably, of grassroots grit and patriotism – just a few miles away.
Different opinions, same city. Welcome to Las Vegas.
Through it all — the awards, the packed room, the balloon giraffes, and heartfelt birthday celebration — my dad and his team (made up of his family, by blood or by choice) pulled off another successful night.
I can say it’s always a labor of love, and this year was no different.
So happy birthday, Dad.
Here’s to 66 years of speaking your mind, fighting for what you believe in, and always throwing one heck of a dinner party.
