Reno, Washoe County in Nevada, is a crucial battleground county in a key swing state that may impact congressional races and even the presidency. The county commissioner race in this cycle is especially significant as the commissioner holds the swing vote on a panel that oversees elections in Washoe. The members appoint the top election official, set the budget, and certify statewide election results. Democratic Secretary of State Francisco Aguilar emphasizes the importance of realizing that national elections are run at the local level, where decisions can impact elections at all levels.
Control of elections has become a target for allies of former President Donald Trump in places like Washoe County, despite the lack of evidence of widespread voter fraud. A CBS News investigation found that nearly 80 officials in battleground states, including Nevada, do not believe in the 2020 election results, have refused to certify the election, or have supported election conspiracy theories. Right-wing activist Robert Beadles, who has falsely claimed the election was rigged, has been lobbying for controversial voting changes supported by certain commissioners. His goal is to build a majority on the commission to further his agenda.
Beadles has targeted fellow Republican Commissioner Clara Andriola for defeat in the upcoming primary, as she has opposed the voting changes he advocates for. Andriola faced censure by the Washoe County GOP for her stand against these changes. Beadles and his supporters are backing candidates like Tracey Hilton-Thomas, who has echoed claims of interference in elections and doubts about the 2020 election results. Beadles has continued to push false claims about election fraud, leading to the resignation of County Registrar Deanna Spikula amidst harassment. Beadles has also been promoted by Steve Bannon, a former adviser to Trump.
In the upcoming primary, voters in Washoe County will decide whether to vote out Andriola, potentially giving Beadles and his allies more influence over election processes. The power of a county in influencing national politics is crucial, as evidenced by the battleground state status of Nevada. Aguilar emphasizes the importance of countering election deniers who seek to undermine the integrity of elections at the local level. Beadles’ efforts to gain a majority on the commission and push his agenda could have significant implications for future elections in Washoe County and beyond.
