Election contributions to Nevada from the state’s gaming industry have nearly reached pre-Covid levels, according to a local report from The Nevada Independent. The publication noted that the industry was largest financial supporter during last year’s election cycle.
The state of Nevada has enjoyed a streak of success post-pandemic, which could account for the rise in monetary contributions. January marks the 23rd consecutive month that the Nevada gaming industry has yielded at least $1bn in revenue.
During the last cycle, the Nevada Resort Association and its PAC gave close to $180,000 to 18 winning candidates. The association represents 80 casino resorts statewide and is the primary trade association for the gaming industry.
R&R Partners CEO of Marketing and Public Affairs Billy Vassiliadis told The Nevada Independent that there is a correlation between the success of the industry and the success of the state.
“One is for the industry to support candidates they believe will better serve the state. And two – elected officials who understand both the importance of the industry… and the obligation to understand and work with the industry on issues that are of common threat to both.
“If the industry is doing well, the state does well, whether its revenue, the funding of education, all of the programs that are important.”
Vassiliadis is also a lobbyist for Nevada Resort Association. He went on to add that employee and visitor safety and comfort in resort areas and corridors remains a “top concern” for the industry during this legislative session.
He said in closing: “It is the biggest industry and by that, the largest taxpayer, largest revenue generator, largest provider of health insurance.
“Just about any public policy issue will have a disproportionate effect on an industry that is that much of this state's economic infrastructure.”
