Adam Laxalt, Steve Sisolak to face off in November’s race for Nevada governor

LAS VEGAS — Democrats settled a bruising primary for Nevada governor on Tuesday, nominating Clark County Commission Chair Steve Sisolak to take on the state’s Republican attorney general in November — one of two close races expected in the battleground state this year.

Sisolak, who had the backing of former U.S. Sen. Harry Reid and chairs the powerful council overseeing the Las Vegas Strip and surrounding communities, defeated his commission colleague Christina Giunchigliani. Sisolak had 50 percent of the vote with 93 percent reported.

His general election opponent Adam Laxalt handily won the backing of Nevada Republicans. He 71 percent of the vote with 90 percent reported.

Both Giunchigliani and Sisolak pledged to stand up to Trump and the National Rifle Association.

Giunchigliani, who goes by “Chris G,” is a 63-year-old former state legislator and teacher. She earned backing from the women’s group Emily’s List and on Sunday picked up an endorsement from Hillary Clinton.

“You all know that there are some serious challenges facing our state. Our schools are overcrowded and underfunded,”Sisolak said. “For too long, too many teachers have been paid too little. The rising cost of healthcare in Nevada is enough to make you sick. And our state’s economy must seriously diversify so that we can create new jobs that pay – in new industries that last.

“I believe our next governor needs to be bold. That means you do more than just talk about problems. You have to get things done. You have to deliver.”

Laxalt is a former lieutenant in the U.S. Navy, the grandson of former U.S. Sen. and Nevada Gov. Paul Laxalt and son of former U.S. Sen. Pete Domenici of New Mexico.

Trump endorsed Laxalt, who handily won the GOP primary.

Laxalt said in a statement that the election in November would be “a choice between real solutions and a radical agenda that will take our unique state the way of California. Higher taxes, ridiculous regulations, sanctuary cities, you name it, my opponent supports it. They would change Nevada forever.”