By Chuck Muth, Nevada News and Views, February 12, 2025
As someone who was part of its original pre-founding three decades ago this year, I thought I’d tell you a little bit about an extremely important and effective organization fighting for Nevada’s small businesses – even though they’re not a household name.
Along with a little-known “inside story” from its inception.
Keystone Corporation, established in 1995, is a political organization based in Las Vegas, Nevada, dedicated to promoting a business-friendly environment within the state.
It was originally started as a fundraising operation for the Western States Republican Leadership Conference (WSRLC) at the new MGM Grand on the Strip. It was the first major GOP political event in Las Vegas.
The hope was that the event would be successful enough to put Vegas in the running for the Republican National Convention in 2000 – which, of course, didn’t come to pass. Too many social conservatives around the country at the time objected to doing anything in “Sin City.”
The key organizers were Tom “Big Dog” Weisner – Nevada’s Republican National Committeeman at the time – Benay Stout (perhaps Nevada’s best GOP political consultant ever), Joe Brown, Bob Maxey, Barry Becker, Tito Tiberti, and Jerry Dondero.
Another key figure was John Mason, who was elected the Nevada Republican Party chairman that spring. I was involved in the planning meetings as Mason’s executive director.
And here’s the interesting behind-the-scenes story few know about…
Bob Dole and the Straw Poll Showdown
Back in those days, the summer Iowa Caucus was not only a big deal but its “straw poll” raised a $#%&-load of money for the state GOP.
So we proposed holding a second straw poll at the WSRLC to raise money for the Nevada Republican Party.
At the time, Bob Dole was considered the front-runner for the GOP presidential nomination, but he was being vigorously challenged by Phil Gramm, Steve Forbes and Pat Buchanan.
Dole was declared the winner of the Iowa straw poll, but the result was pretty much a tie with Gramm. As such, Dole threatened not to speak at the WSRLC if another straw poll was conducted.
So we killed it. WSRLC couldn’t risk not having the perceived likely GOP nominee boycott the event. To say Chairman Mason and I weren’t happy campers would be an understatement.
Still, the event was a huge success, attracting over a thousand Republican activists from 13 states.
The Rise of Keystone
After the conference, this fundraising group of business leaders recognized their shared goals and the importance of maintaining a business-friendly environment in Nevada.
So they decided to form an official organization to support candidates who aligned with their vision.
The founding members – including Ed Nigro, Terry Graves, Ted Gibson, and Jim Gibson – proposed that the group be non-partisan to attract as many business leaders as possible.
The organization – which later became known as Keystone Corporation – was established with the primary mission of recruiting, supporting, and advocating for candidates who support private sector job creation, low taxation, and a responsible regulatory environment in Nevada.
That mission remains central to Keystone’s activities today.
Throughout its history, Keystone Corporation has actively engaged in various initiatives to further its mission:
- Candidate Support: The organization identifies and supports candidates aligned with its pro-business values, providing endorsements and resources to bolster their campaigns.
- Legislative Victories: Keystone has a history of successful legislative advocacy, contributing to the passage of laws that foster economic growth and reduce regulatory burdens.
- Community Engagement: Through events and outreach programs, Keystone connects with community members, business leaders, and policymakers to discuss and promote policies that enhance Nevada’s economic landscape.
There are a number of organizations and associations that claim to represent small businesses in Nevada, but Keystone doesn’t sacrifice principle at the altar of political expediency.
You know, like the Las Vegas Chamber of Commerce.
You don’t see Keystone endorsing anti-business candidates just to “get a seat at the table” or audiences with elected officials.
That’s what I love about them.
Leadership Messages
In a recent message, the Chairman of Keystone Corporation emphasized the organization’s unwavering commitment to its foundational goals, stating:
“We seek to minimize taxation and regulation of business in our state. We favor this as the best environment in which to maximize the potential of every individual in our state. Maximum individual freedom is the key to economic growth and success.”
Similarly, immediate past President Darren Wilson highlighted the importance of member support in achieving Keystone’s objectives:
“Joining Keystone is a step in the right direction to supporting prosperity and economic growth in Nevada. Your support allows us to attract businesses and residents to our great Silver State.”
Membership and Involvement
Keystone Corporation offers membership opportunities for individuals who share its vision of a prosperous, business-friendly Nevada.
Members gain access to exclusive events, resources, and a network of like-minded professionals dedicated to fostering economic growth in the state.
The organization also has a Young Professionals group, encouraging the next generation to engage in political advocacy and leadership.
As Keystone celebrates 30 years of advocacy, it remains a pivotal force in shaping Nevada’s political and economic landscape, steadfast in its commitment to policies that promote freedom, opportunity, and prosperity for all Nevadans.
Recent and Upcoming Events
Keystone Corporation regularly hosts events to engage with its members and the broader community. Notable upcoming events include:
- Keystone Sips & Sweets Night: Scheduled for February 16, 2025, at 5:30 PM, this event will take place at Ethel M Chocolates Flagship Store in Henderson, NV.
- Third Annual ATF Sporting Clay Tournament: Set for March 7, 2025, at 8:00 AM, this tournament will be held at the Pro Gun Club.
These events provide opportunities for members and supporters to network, discuss policy initiatives, and strengthen their commitment to Keystone’s mission.
Gia and I will be at this Sunday’s Sips & Sweets event. If you can make it, why not join us and learn more about this important, pro-business group. Salud!