In a recent column, Las Vegas Review-Journal opinion writer Victor Joecks argues that Democratic gubernatorial candidate Aaron Ford is inadvertently encouraging voters to support Republicans. Joecks highlights Ford's demand on social media for $2,000 refund checks for Nevada households to offset high gas prices, noting that former President Donald Trump has previously proposed similar dividend payments tied to tariff revenue if Republicans win federal elections.
Joecks contends that while high gas prices are a significant concern for voters, Ford's proposal mimics a Trump pledge rather than offering an independent state-level solution. The columnist points out that the Nevada governor has little influence over global factors affecting fuel costs, such as Middle East conflicts or the Strait of Hormuz.
Instead, Joecks argues a Nevada governor can address the state's heavy reliance on California gasoline, which supplies 88 percent of Nevada's fuel. He notes California policies have driven refineries out of business, contributing to Nevada's average price of $5.34 per gallon compared to $3.76 in Texas.
Joecks contrasts the candidates' approaches, stating Gov. Joe Lombardo formed a Fuel Resiliency Committee months ago to reduce dependence on California supply. Meanwhile, Ford has campaigned with California Gov. Gavin Newsom, whom Joecks identifies as a primary cause of the regional supply constraints driving up prices in Nevada.
Sources: Las Vegas Review-Journal
Original reporting: Las Vegas Review-Journal →
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