Varlin Higbee, the chair of Lincoln County, Nevada, traveled over two hours to attend Donald Trump’s Las Vegas rally but was barred from entry despite holding a VIP invitation due to his past support for one of Trump’s Republican primary rivals.
This incident, witnessed by long-time Nevada Republicans, highlights the state party’s unwavering allegiance to the former president, potentially alienating crucial voters needed to secure victory in this pivotal battleground.
Trump narrowly lost Nevada in both 2016 and 2020 by about 2.5 percentage points each time. As the state gears up for another contested election, the Republican Party’s alignment with Trump has come under scrutiny, with critics warning that it could isolate voters needed for success in the general election.
Trump (Credits: AP News)
The recent Nevada Republican Party caucus exemplifies Trump’s dominance. Trump secured victory, winning all delegates, as he ran essentially unopposed. Nikki Haley, his remaining opponent, participated in the state-run Republican primary instead, criticizing Trump for “rigging” the contest after coming in second place.
Critics, including former political director TK Crabb, argue that the state party’s loyalty to Trump has overshadowed winning strategies. Crabb, initially barred from the Vegas rally, criticized the party’s focus on personalities rather than electoral success, emphasizing that she does not plan to vote for Trump.
Amid controversies surrounding the state party leadership, Nevada Republican Party Chairman Michael McDonald and Clark County Chairman Jesse Law are among six “fake electors” indicted for their alleged involvement in attempting to overturn the 2020 presidential election.
The refusal to accept the election results has already impacted statewide races, with Republican Senate candidate Adam Laxalt facing criticism for echoing unfounded claims of voter fraud, ultimately contributing to his defeat.
Some Republicans express concerns that the party’s insistence on ideological purity could hinder their chances in the upcoming election. Amy Tarkanian, a former Republican state party chair, warns against prioritizing purism over victory, especially considering Nevada’s changing voter landscape.
The state party’s focus on MAGA principles might not resonate with the growing number of non-partisan voters and could alienate potential Republican supporters.
Despite indicators suggesting favorable conditions for Trump and Republicans in Nevada, including economic concerns and narrowing voter registration gaps, the state party’s approach raises questions about its ability to appeal to a broad electorate.
As Nevada Republicans navigate a contentious political landscape, their strategy and messaging may play a crucial role in determining electoral outcomes.
