Attorney General Ford Formally Declares Bid to Unseat Unpopular Lombardo, the Trump-Allied Governor

Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford formally announced his candidacy for governor on Monday, positioning himself as the Democratic frontrunner to challenge Republican incumbent Gov. Joe Lombardo in the 2026 election. The announcement, made at a campaign launch event in Las Vegas, marks a significant step in what is expected to be a heated race in the battleground state.

Ford, 53, who has served as Nevada’s attorney general since 2019, highlighted his personal journey and policy priorities in his campaign launch. “I’m running for governor because Nevadans need a fighter in their corner. I will work to lower the crushing cost of housing and prescription drugs, strengthen our public schools, and ensure every community in Nevada is safe,” Ford said in a news release.

Lombardo’s approval rating is a few points lower than the deeply-unpopular president who he allies with.

A weak economy, civil rights infringements, skyrocketing heathcare costs and continued inflation, a bottoming out tourism market are a few things leading to the low approval numbers.

Ford launched his campaign with a targeted campaign ad against current governor, Republican Joe Lombardo. Lombardo, who supports President Trump, vetoed several bills passed by the Legislature regarding economic growth, housing, and education meanwhile visitors are near historic lows due to several high-profile European citizens detained by ICE while on vacation.

In his first campaign video, Ford criticized Lombardo’s leadership, stating, “Lombardo said Nevadans ‘need to feel a little pain.’ Well, we’re feeling it. Our unemployment rate is the highest in the nation. Our classrooms are among the most crowded and worst funded. Our health care costs are rising faster here than anywhere in the nation. And there’s no real plan to fix any of it.”

Ford, who would become Nevada’s first Black governor if elected, emphasized his blue-collar roots. “My experiences resonate with Nevadans more so than the policies that Joe Lombardo is advocating,” Ford said in an interview, pointing to his time as a public-school teacher and single father relying on welfare and public housing.

The announcement follows months of speculation, with Ford confirming his intent to run in December 2024. He has already secured endorsements from Nevada’s U.S. Senators, Catherine Cortez Masto and Jacky Rosen. However, Ford faces a contested Democratic primary, with Washoe County Commission Chair Alexis Hill announcing her candidacy last week. Former Gov. Steve Sisolak is also reportedly considering a run.

Social media reactions to Ford’s announcement were mixed. U.S. Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto posted on X, “Aaron Ford has been a tireless fighter for Nevadans as AG, and I’m confident he’ll bring that same dedication to the governor’s office. Proud to support him!” Nevada Assembly Speaker Steve Yeager also expressed support, writing on X, “Aaron Ford’s leadership and vision make him the right choice for Nevada’s future. Excited to back his campaign for governor!”

However, some voices were critical. John Burke, a spokesman for a super PAC supporting Lombardo, posted on X, “Ford can’t be trusted to keep us safe, represent the interests of Nevadans, or uphold the public’s trust. Nevada voters will reject Ford and his radical campaign in 2026.” Conservative commentator Brittany Sheehan echoed this sentiment, writing on X, “Aaron Ford’s policies show he’s more focused on political ambition than Nevada’s needs. His lawsuit against transparency efforts is a red flag. #NVGov2026”

Ford’s campaign launch included a prayer breakfast at his home church and a visit to a local small business, signaling a focus on community engagement. With Lombardo’s campaign reporting a $5.5 million war chest compared to Ford’s $440,000, the financial gap underscores the challenge ahead. The Democratic primary is set for June 9, 2026, with the general election on Nov. 3, 2026.