Reno businessman Don Tatro has announced his candidacy for state Senator District 16.
Tatro, born and raised in Carson City, was appointed to the state Senate in November 2021 to complete the term of Sen. Ben Kieckhefer, who resigned to accept an appointment to the state Gaming Commission. Tatro now seeks election to a full four-year term representing District 16.
“We face significant issues throughout Northern Nevada and the rest of the state. I’m not just another politician, I bring personal experience creating jobs, improving access to education and addressing the issue of attainable housing. I look forward to providing fresh and creative leadership to strengthen our community and its families,” Tatro said in a press release.
Tatro said he plans a positive, issues-oriented campaign that emphasizes the most important needs of voters.
He cited the economy, attainable quality housing, forward-thinking education system and transparent, efficient government has the most important issues.
A 2000 graduate of Carson High School, Tatro worked in construction and for a horse trainer before earning a bachelor’s degree in business management from the University of Phoenix.
After completing his degree, Tatro spent some time outside of Nevada working as a press secretary for former U.S. Sens. John Ensign (R-Nev.) and Tom Coburn (R-Okla.).
He went on to launch a small business — an appraisal management company.
Tatro returned to Nevada in 2015 to serve as executive director of The Builders, a Reno-based organization of homebuilders. He served The Builders in a leadership capacity for five years. He currently works as a mortgage lender with NorthPointe Bank.
He is married to his wife, Rachael, and together they have two children.
Tatro was appointed by Washoe County commissioners and the Carson City Board of Supervisors during a joint meeting. Tatro had previously said he wouldn’t seek re-election.
“As I mentioned during the application process, I did not have any intention to run for election,” Tatro said, when asked why he changed his mind. “Since the end of the session I have received encouragement from grassroots supporters, my Senate colleagues, community leaders, and donors. I believe, as those encouraging me to run believe, that my real-world experience and unique leadership on the pressing issues facing our state – economic growth, attainable housing, education and government regulation and restrictions – is needed in the Senate.”
Tatro will have a primary competitor in Lisa Krasner who previously announced she would seek the seat.
Nevada’s primary election is scheduled for June 14.
