The political landscape in Nevada is heating up as Democratic Attorney General Aaron Ford prepares to challenge incumbent Republican Governor Joe Lombardo in the upcoming gubernatorial election this November. This race is expected to draw significant attention nationwide.

According to The Associated Press, Aaron Ford has emerged as the Democratic nominee after defeating five other contenders. Ford, who has served as the state’s Attorney General since 2018, has focused his campaign heavily on critiquing Governor Lombardo. He highlights the rising costs of essentials such as groceries, gas, housing, and healthcare as marks against the governor’s tenure. Additionally, Ford attempts to associate Lombardo with former President Trump, whose popularity has waned since a close win in the state by 3 points two years ago. This strategy could create challenges for Lombardo moving forward.

The Cook Political Report currently rates this election as a toss-up. Governor Lombardo navigated the Republican primary with relative ease, overcoming six challengers. His legislative successes, despite a Democrat-dominated legislature, bolster his campaign. Noteworthy achievements include a bipartisan initiative to increase school district accountability, adjustments to criminal justice reforms following George Floyd’s death in 2020, and making strides in housing affordability. Lombardo also played a key role in securing public financing for a new stadium for Major League Baseball’s A’s.

Although Lombardo has amassed a substantial campaign fund, financial resources may not be sufficient alone. Effective messaging and engaging with voters are crucial, areas where Ford might excel. One of Ford’s key endorsements comes from the influential Culinary Union, which represents hospitality workers across Nevada. Claiming up to 60,000 members in the state, the union is renowned for high voter turnout efforts. It facilitates voting by integrating polling sites within casinos and resorts targeted at hospitality staff.