GOP’s fundraiser role passed on to Oscarson

Former Republican Assemblyman Paul Anderson’s jump to the Governor’s Office of Economic Development leaves a hole not only in the Nevada Legislature but also in the Assembly GOP’s fundraising efforts.

Anderson spearheaded the political action committee called the Growth and Opportunity PAC, which was created to help elect Republicans to office in Nevada.

Now the role of leading that PAC falls to Pahrump Assemblyman James Oscarson.

“It has always been an honor to represent the people of Nevada Assembly District 36, and it has been an honor to serve with Paul in the Assembly Republican leadership,” Oscarson said in a statement. “He will be missed in both roles, but I’m proud to continue his tradition of recruiting strong candidates and running strong, competitive campaigns throughout Nevada.”

Rumors

Two likely gubernatorial candidates are expected to formally announce their plans for 2018 in separate “special events” on Monday.

Attorney General Adam Laxalt, a Republican, is expected to launch his campaign Monday at an event at 10 a.m. at Brady Industries, 7055 S. Lindell Road, and subsequent events in Reno later that day and in Elko on Tuesday.

Democratic Clark County Commissioner Chris Giunchigliani also has a “special announcement” scheduled for 4:30 p.m. Monday at Las Vegas Academy. Giunchigliani has said at previous events that she is “99 percent” in for the race to replace Gov. Brian Sandoval, who is term-limited.

Who jumped in?

Henderson Republican Assemblyman Keith Pickard formally launched his state Senate campaign to replace Senate GOP leader Michael Roberson, who is vacating the seat next year to run for lieutenant governor. The announcement sets up a GOP primary between Pickard and political newcomer Byron Brooks, who announced his campaign in August.

Who’s out?

Not long after announcing his run for lieutenant governor, Democrat Chip Evans apparently had a change of heart. Evans said Friday that he will not run but will “wholeheartedly” endorse fellow Democrat Kate Marshall in the race.

Endorsements

Two more labor unions, Ironworkers Local 433 and Operating Engineers Local 12, threw their support behind Democratic gubernatorial candidate Steve Sisolak last week. He has also been endorsed by the Southwest Council of Carpenters, Labors Local Union 872 and the Teamsters Local 14.

Susie Lee, the Democratic candidate for the 3rd Congressional District, was endorsed by EMILY’s List.

Contact Colton Lochhead at clochhead@reviewjournal.com or 702-383-4638. Follow @ColtonLochhead on Twitter.