Lombardo backs Flippo in Nevada House race

Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo endorsed retired Air Force Lt. Col. David Flippo for Congress in Nevada’s 2nd District on July 28, signaling unified Republican support behind a bid to keep the seat red and help preserve the GOP House majority.

Why it matters: - Lombardo’s endorsement gives Flippo a high-profile boost in a competitive Nevada congressional race. - The backing is aimed at helping Republicans hold Nevada’s 2nd District and protect the Republican majority in the U.S. House. - The endorsement also signals party unity after the primary.

What happened: - Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo endorsed retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. David Flippo for Congress in Nevada’s 2nd Congressional District. - The endorsement was announced July 28, 2026. - Flippo is running against Teresa Benitez-Thompson, whom Flippo referred to as “TBT.”

The details: - Lombardo said he met with Flippo over several weeks before deciding to endorse him. - Lombardo said he wants to work with Flippo on releasing more federal land for attainable housing, lowering costs for working families, strengthening Nevada’s economy, and giving rural Nevada a stronger voice. - Flippo said the endorsement shows Republicans are united behind a conservative agenda focused on lower costs, more housing, economic growth, protecting rural communities, and keeping control of Congress. - Flippo criticized Benitez-Thompson’s record on taxes, climate policy, school and social issues, and drivers licenses for undocumented immigrants. - The campaign said Lombardo joins President Donald J. Trump, House Speaker Mike Johnson, House Majority Leader Steve Scalise, and House Majority Whip Tom Emmer in endorsing Flippo. - The release includes campaign contact information and social media links: the campaign’s LinkedIn page, Instagram account, Facebook page, YouTube channel, and X account.

Between the lines: - Lombardo’s support strengthens Flippo’s standing with Nevada Republicans and could help consolidate donors and voters after the primary. - The campaign is framing the race as part of a broader national fight over House control. - Flippo’s attack on Benitez-Thompson shows the race is likely to stay sharply partisan and message-driven.

What's next: - Flippo and Nevada Republicans will now try to turn the endorsement into momentum heading into November. - The race will likely hinge on turnout, turnout among rural voters, and how effectively each side defines the stakes in the district. - Republicans are expected to keep emphasizing housing, cost-of-living pressures, and control of Congress.