Reno, Washoe County, Nevada, has emerged as a critical battleground county in a crucial battleground state, with the upcoming county commissioner race being one of the most consequential races in the state. The county commissioner holds the swing vote on a panel that oversees elections in Washoe, appoints the county’s top election official, sets the budget for elections, and certifies statewide election results. Democratic Secretary of State Francisco Aguilar emphasized the importance of local elections in the national electoral process, as decisions made at the local level can impact elections at the state and national levels.
Former President Donald Trump and his supporters have launched attacks on the electoral process, targeting election oversight positions in battleground states like Nevada. A CBS News investigation revealed that nearly 80 officials in these positions across seven battleground states, including Nevada, either do not believe in the 2020 election results, refused to certify the election, supported the actions of the Capitol riots on Jan. 6, 2021, or promoted election conspiracies. In Washoe County, right-wing activist Robert Beadles has been lobbying for voting changes that have been deemed illegal, such as hand-counting paper ballots and having the National Guard at polling places.
Beadles, a wealthy real estate and cryptocurrency investor, has invested heavily in local elections, particularly in support of commissioners who have pushed election conspiracies or denied Biden’s victory. He aims to build a majority on the commission to advance his agenda. Beadles has targeted Republican Commissioner Clara Andriola, who has opposed his proposed voting changes and was censured by the Washoe County GOP as a result. Beadles is backing Andriola’s primary opponent, Republican Tracey Hilton-Thomas, who has expressed doubts about the 2020 election results and believes in election interference.
Beadles has faced criticism for his false claims about election fraud and his role in the harassment of election officials. Despite multiple legal challenges, he continues to push his agenda to control the certification of elections in Washoe County. With the upcoming primary, Washoe County voters will decide whether to vote out Andriola and potentially give Beadles and his allies control over election certification. Nevada Secretary of State Francisco Aguilar warns that election deniers understand the power of counties in determining national election outcomes, highlighting the significance of Washoe County in the larger electoral landscape.
The battle for control over elections in Washoe County reflects a broader struggle over the integrity of the electoral process and the influence of political actors like Beadles. The outcome of the county commissioner race could have far-reaching implications for elections at the state and national levels. As the election approaches, the spotlight is on Washoe County as a key battleground in the fight to protect the integrity of the electoral process and uphold democratic principles.
