What does it take to go big in politics these days? Not just win a race, but really shift the tide – change minds, move people, and build something that lasts?
That’s the question tackled on a recent episode of the Going Big podcast, hosted by Kevin Gentry.
The conversation featured two giants from opposite sides of the political world:
Richard Viguerie, a founding father of modern conservative fundraising, and Roger Craver, a longtime liberal organizer and co-founder of Common Cause.
Despite their differences, both men agree on one thing: the future belongs to bold leaders with big ideas and the guts to follow through.
Conservatives Have the Grassroots – And That’s the Advantage
“The Left controls most major institutions,” said Viguerie, “but we have the grassroots. That’s power.”
He’s not wrong.
Whether it’s school board meetings in Washoe County or sheriff elections in rural Nevada, everyday conservatives are getting involved like never before.
They may not have the media or the universities on their side, but they’ve got something stronger: conviction.
And that’s exactly what both men say is needed right now.
“People want to feel part of something bigger,” Viguerie added. “They’re looking for leadership, not just another fundraising pitch.”
In other words, it’s not about raising the most money. It’s about raising the right kind of people.
Leadership Still Matters More Than Ever
Both guests agreed: big change doesn’t happen without bold leaders.
“A leader sets the tone, raises the bar, and inspires people to act,” said Viguerie. “Without a bold leader, the big ideas die on the vine.”
That’s something conservatives in Nevada know firsthand.
When Joe Lombardo ran for governor, he wasn’t the flashiest candidate. But he was focused, disciplined, and clear about where he stood.
And it paid off.
That same kind of leadership is what’s needed across the board – especially in areas like election integrity, school choice, and border security.
Without it, the movement stalls.
The Tools Have Changed, But the Principles Haven’t
You might think old-school tactics like direct mail are dead. But not so fast.
“Direct mail still works,” Craver said. “It’s just not trendy.”
Viguerie agreed. He said digital tools are great, but they don’t replace connection.
“People want something real,” he said. “That’s why direct mail still works. You hold it in your hand. It feels like someone’s talking to you, not shouting at you on a screen.”
In Nevada, where rural areas are spread far and wide, that personal touch still matters.
A flyer in the mailbox can go a lot farther than a flashy email.
Friendship Across the Aisle and the Lessons That Come With It
One of the most surprising parts of the podcast?
Despite their political differences, Viguerie and Craver are friends.
It started when Viguerie sent Craver a bottle of scotch with a note that said, “Let’s work together.”
That’s old-school, too. And it shows that even in today’s divided climate, respect and relationships still matter.
They both emphasized the importance of learning from mentors, reading biographies, and never backing down from your core beliefs.
“Always stand for something,” said Viguerie. “People follow conviction.”
Why This Matters for Nevada and the Country
This conversation isn’t just for political insiders in D.C. It matters right here at home.
In Nevada, where Democrats hold the Legislature but conservatives are gaining momentum at the local level, the opportunity to “go big” is wide open.
With the right leaders, the right message, and a clear mission, there’s no reason the grassroots can’t win – again and again.
As Viguerie put it, “We look for people who have fire in their belly. People who challenge the status quo, who are fearless, who put mission before money.”
In other words, going big doesn’t mean being loud. It means being bold – and being smart about it.
In 2025, that’s exactly what the conservative movement needs, especially here in Nevada.
Watch the full podcast here . . .
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.
