Nevada Republican Rep. Mark Amodei’s surprise retirement announcement last week has triggered a flurry of speculation over who will vie for his reliably Republican 2nd Congressional District seat.
Several potential candidates have already ruled themselves out, including former Nevada Attorney General and U.S. Senate candidate Adam Laxalt, former gubernatorial candidate Guyn Nohra, and State Senator Ira Hansen. Douglass County Commissioner Danny Tarkanian reportedly intends to remain in his current attorney general race, though he has not publicly confirmed that.
Meanwhile, several other Republicans are mulling a run. Among them are Nevada State Controller Andy Matthews, former two-time U.S. Senate candidate Sam Brown, former gubernatorial candidate Joey Gilbert, former lieutenant governor and Senate candidate Tony Grady, former State Senator James Settelmeyer, and potentially former Assemblyman Ken Gray.
Early speculation suggests that Sam Brown could be the front-runner, possibly earning former President Donald Trump’s endorsement. However, some analysts question whether that alone would be enough to secure victory in a district where voters are increasingly looking for a more aggressive, ideologically conservative candidate.
Brown, known for his personal story as a war veteran, has faced criticism for campaigns that failed to inspire broad enthusiasm, and Trump’s backing was insufficient to carry him statewide in 2024. Matthews is seen as a true conservative but faces challenges due to his southern Nevada roots and a reputation for cautious, non-confrontational politics.
The dynamic opens the door for candidates who can energize the base. Political observers point to Joey Gilbert, whose 2022 gubernatorial run generated significant grassroots enthusiasm, as a potential dark horse. Gilbert’s supporters are known for their energy and dedication, attending rallies, volunteering, and amplifying his message in ways that typical candidates may struggle to match.
The Old Blog in the Desert 
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