by Barbara Head
Nevada has been the pride of the Democratic party for many years. The expectation was always that staunchly Democratic Nevada would receive a political windfall due to favorable demographics. Rising numbers of Asian American and Latinx residents seemed likely to help turn this blue state even bluer.
Those dreams have not materialized, however. Once the champions of the working class, Democrats now struggle to attract working-class voters who constitute the political majority in Nevada. Many work in the Las Vegas casino industry, which has been ravaged by Covid. While many of these voters still support Biden, there is a growing drift towards Trump and the Republican party.
Much to Lose
Even voters who dislike Trump and many of his policies approve of his emphasis on moving on from Covid and opening up the economy. Another common theme among the majority of working-class voters who lack college degrees is that highly-educated Democratic officials have lost touch with their constituents and ignore their concerns. They are also uncomfortable with the idea that Democrats promote socialism.
Democratic officials are reeling from these trends. Many observers believe that U.S. Senator Catherine Cortez Masto, the first Latina in the Senate, is one of the most endangered Democratic senators running for re-election in 2022. A first-term senator, Cortez Masto suffers from a lack of name recognition and sense of personal connection with voters. Recently, she released a biographical video appealing to her Latinx constituency. Republicans are eager to flip Cortez Masto’s seat, which could upend the Senate in 2022. Nevada is also in danger of losing its Democratic governor, Steve Sisolak, as well as its blue majority in the legislature.
How We Can Win
Though the outlook remains worrisome, there are significant rays of hope. First and foremost, the economy is likely to continue to improve in Las Vegas, where the Strip is beginning to fill restaurants, hotels and casinos again with tourists. Recovery of Las Vegas businesses promises more jobs and higher wages, which will replenish the empty wallets of working-class voters.
In addition, Adam Laxalt, Sen. Cortez Masto’s likely Republican opponent, will not be popular among moderate voters. Laxalt played a key role in trying to overturn Nevada’s 2020 election results, a move that probably will find little support in Nevada. Meanwhile, Democratic grassroots activists and volunteers are turning out in increasing numbers to support Sen. Cortez Masto and Gov. Sisolak in the 2022 elections. So this is our chance to be part of the Nevada solution and keep it blue.
Take Action Now!
Activate America needs our help writing postcards that promote Sen. Cortez Masto by highlighting her advocacy of climate control. Here is the script:
We are all worried that climate change will hurt Nevada’s economy and environment.
Re-elect Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto, a climate champion. She will protect:
- Nevada’s clean-energy economy
- Our children’s health
- The Planet’s future
Details of the Nevada postcard campaign
- Packets: Each packet contains 25 cards and stamps
- Cost: $15/ packet
- Pick up: Wednesday May 4 and Thursday May 5 in Concord or anytime after May 4 in Sudbury and Acton.
- Timing: Mail the cards within 2 weeks of pick up.
- Limit: 2 packets per person
Email Chris Miara with the number of packets you’d like and where you’d like to pick them up. We’ll send details on locations and payment.
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