Krolicki announces run for lieutenant governor

Nevada State Treasurer Brian Krolicki made his plans to run for lieutenant governor official Thursday.

"I think I'm very uniquely qualified on several fronts," he said announcing his bid.

He said his extensive experience in dealing with major business and financial institutions while treasurer and as head of the National Association of State Treasurers has created relationships that will be very helpful in Nevada's economic development efforts as well as tourism.

The lieutenant governor leads both the state Tourism and Economic Development commissions.

Half way through his second term as treasurer, Krolicki's experience also includes eight years as chief deputy state treasurer under Bob Seale. He is a Republican.

He said his financial background in the state enables him to bring a "knowledge and understanding of state government at its most basic level - financial operations" to the job.

Beyond that, Krolicki, 44, said the step is "perfect for the Krolicki family." He and his wife, Kelly, have three young daughters and he said the lieutenant governor's job will enable him to not only spend the time he needs to with his family but to help care for his father in Las Vegas.

"They are my priorities," he said.

Krolicki's name has been mentioned as a possible candidate for several posts from governor to congress as well as lieutenant governor. He briefly considered a run for U.S. Senate last year.

Krolicki said he doesn't believe the "north-south thing" will be a problem since he has already run and won statewide in two elections and "never made a geographical based decision as treasurer."

Krolicki said he has about $100,000 in his campaign account and doesn't believe it will be difficult to raise the money necessary to run.

Several other names have been floated as possible opponents in the race including former lieutenant governor Lonnie Hammergren, Las Vegas businessman Steve Hill - both Republicans - and Democrat Bob Goodman who was economic development director for the state more than 20 years ago.

Krolicki is a Stanford graduate with experience in several major financial firms including as SmithBarney's representative in Saudi Arabia and Europe before he joined the treasurer's office.

Krolicki is only one of several incumbents looking to change jobs in two years. Incumbent Lt. Gov. Lorraine Hunt has made it clear she wants to run for governor. Secretary of State Dean Heller has announced a bid for Congress and Controller Kathy Augustine has said in the past she was interested in that post as well.

Rep. Jim Gibbons, R-Nev., is running for governor as is Assembly Speaker Richard Perkins, D-Henderson, and Senate Minority Leader Dina Titus, D-Las Vegas.

Finally, the Nevada Attorney General Brian Sandoval will be confirmed as a federal district judge later this year, opening that post to all comers as well.

Contact reporter Geoff Dornan at gdornan@nevadaappeal.com or at 687-8750.