Aaron Ford, the Attorney General of Nevada, emerged victorious in the Democratic primary for the governor’s race on Tuesday, as reported by The Associated Press. This win pits him against Joe Lombardo, one of the most vulnerable incumbent Republican governors in the United States.

Ford competed against Alexis Hill, a commissioner from Washoe County, Nevada’s second largest in population. Despite her challenge, Ford held a solid lead in polls, fundraising, and endorsements. He chose not to debate Hill, instead concentrating on the upcoming general election against Lombardo and addressing Nevada’s economic challenges.

Nevada, a politically strategic battleground, has shown a pattern of electing challengers over incumbents, especially amid economic difficulties. In 2022, Steve Sisolak was the sole sitting Democratic governor defeated for re-election, largely due to backlash against his pandemic lockdown orders.

Ford, now 54, is banking on a shift in voter sentiment as Nevada faces high unemployment rates and elevated gas prices, making the governor’s race a prime target for Democrats to secure a gubernatorial position.

Ford’s primary win marks a significant step in his unexpected journey through Nevada politics. Originally from Texas, Ford grew up in poverty, accessed college education through a federal low-income program, and relied on food stamps and public housing as a single father in his early twenties. He believes his personal story resonates with Nevada’s working-class voters who often sway elections. Ford aims to be Nevada’s first Black governor.

“Tonight we offer a fresh start for Nevada — building an economy of the people, for the people, by the people,” Ford declared during his victory speech. “On day one, we’re going to lower costs.”