Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo Faces Criticism Over Alleged Preferential Treatment
The actions of Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo have come under scrutiny following allegations of favoritism towards Steve Davis, a business executive previously involved with the Trump administration’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE).
Since the start of the year, DOGE has led substantial budget reductions, impacting federal programs that have historically supported Nevada residents. These cuts have resulted in significant job losses for federal employees in the state.
Steve Davis, who took the helm of DOGE from January to May 2025, is known for his earlier role as president of The Boring Company (TBC). This company is responsible for developing an underground tunnel system beneath Las Vegas, utilizing Tesla vehicles for passenger transport.
In late 2024, a training incident in one of TBC’s tunnels resulted in injuries to two Clark County firefighters, who sustained burns and lasting scars due to the chemicals employed in drilling and construction. TBC staff also reportedly suffered similar chemical burns.
Following the incident, the Nevada Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) imposed a $400,000 penalty on TBC for unsafe working conditions and inadequate worker protection. However, as reported by Fortune magazine, Davis reached out to Lombardo’s office shortly after the fine was announced. The penalties were subsequently rescinded last month without much explanation.
Mike Pilchner, a retired member of the International Association of Fire Fighters union, expressed concern, telling KVVU, “I’m deeply alarmed by what appears to be interference in Nevada’s workplace safety.”
Governor Lombardo has previously lauded Davis’ contributions to DOGE, with a statement from his press office in February 2025 declaring, “We need DOGE reforms in Nevada!”
During his tenure, Davis advocated for substantial reductions in medical research funding, including a $120 million cut affecting Nevada universities. This decision jeopardized vital research into drug overdose prevention.
Additionally, DOGE eliminated an $8.4 million grant intended to support the mental health of homeless children in Nevada. The Nevada Home Alliance estimates that approximately 15,000 children in the state face housing instability.
In a March decision, DOGE terminated the employment of every General Services Administration (GSA) worker in Nevada, including those at Lake Mead National Recreation Area who were tasked with monitoring the cleanliness of drinking water. More federal workers from the USDA and Department of Veterans Affairs in Nevada were also let go.
Though Davis is no longer officially with DOGE, reports suggest he continues to wield influence over key agency decisions.
As Lombardo seeks reelection next year, he is expected to face off against state Attorney General Aaron Ford, a potential Democratic challenger.
The post Lombardo blasted for backing DOGE over injured firefighters appeared first on American Journal News.
—
Read More Kitchen Table News
