CARSON CITY — Former GOP Sen. Dean Heller is expected to announce his candidacy for governor at a “special announcement” scheduled for Monday at the local GOP party headquarters in the state capital.
Heller, whose candidacy has been anticipated, would join a crowded GOP field as the likely front-runner to challenge Democratic incumbent Steve Sisolak next year based on his experience and name recognition. Heller has stayed mum on his plans with the media, but made appearances at GOP events in northern Nevada in June where he indicated to attendees he was exploring a run.
Other announced GOP candidates include Clark County Sheriff Joe Lombardo, North Las Vegas Mayor John Lee, Reno attorney Joey Gilbert, and businessmen Guy Nohra.
Heller, 61, served two terms as an assemblyman representing Carson City, three terms as secretary of state, and two terms in the House of Representatives before he was appointed to the U.S. Senate in 2011 by Gov. Brian Sandoval when incumbent John Ensign resigned. He won the Senate seat in 2012 but lost his 2018 bid for re-election to Democrat Jacky Rosen.
Heller navigated a difficult relationship with former President Donald Trump, initially as a vocal critic but later as an ally for whom Trump campaigned in 2018. After his loss, Trump said Heller lost because he didn’t excite voters and had been “extraordinarily hostile” to the president during the 2016 election, alienating conservatives.
Viewed as a moderate Republican, Heller’s website touts his bipartisan credentials in the Senate.
The Monday announcement in Carson City is scheduled for 8 a.m.
This is a developing story. Check back for updates.
Contact Capital Bureau reporter Bill Dentzer at [email protected]. Follow @DentzerNews on Twitter.