Democratic Nevada Assemblymember Sandra Jauregui has thrown her hat into the ring for the state's lieutenant governorship. The announcement from the Assembly's Majority Leader indicates her goals to revitalize Nevada's tourism and address housing, healthcare, and education issues. Jauregui is poised to run against incumbent Republican Lt. Gov. Stavros Anthony in the 2026 general election, provided she secures the Democratic nomination, according to News3LV.
Jauregui, who has represented District 41 since her 2016 victory, opted not to seek re-election in 2026 but looks to continue her political journey in a new role. A survivor of the October 1 mass shooting, her advocacy for gun control has been a consistent part of her legislative career, including pushing for a ban on bump stocks and red flag laws. Jauregui decries the current administration for its perceived failings, stating, "Nevada families deserve a fighter who will roll up her sleeves and deliver results – not someone who stands by while they struggle to get by," in a statement obtained by News3LV.
Her campaign focuses beyond the bright lights of Las Vegas and Reno, aiming to spread the tourist dollar across the Silver State and bolster workforce development, as per an interview with The Nevada Independent. She also plans to establish an office of community safety to enhance law enforcement collaboration. During her service, she has navigated the political landscape, sponsoring bills across party lines, including supporting Republican Governor Joe Lombardo's attainable housing bill and a bipartisan firearm immunity bill.
Jauregui's track record and bipartisan efforts have earned the support of key Democratic figures, including Attorney General Aaron Ford and Senators Catherine Cortez Masto and Jacky Rosen. "Sandra Jauregui has spent her career fighting for Nevadans, from working to lower prescription drug costs and helping Nevadans afford their homes to supporting law enforcement that keeps our communities safe," Cortez Masto said in a statement obtained by The Nevada Independent. However, Jauregui has not shied away from criticizing policies of her likely opponent, Anthony, particularly questioning the legality of his "Task Force to Protect Women's Sports" initiative.
With no high-profile Democratic challengers announced, Jauregui's path to the nomination appears clear – her commitment remains steadfast. She can’t "sit on the sideline," Jauregui told The Nevada Independent. "There is too much on the lines for Nevada families right now. They are struggling."
