(The Center Square) — Washoe County Commissioner Alexis Hill announced her candidacy for the Nevada gubernatorial race in what is shaping up to be a high-profile election.
Hill is competing against Attorney General Aaron Ford for the Democratic nomination to go up against Republican Gov. Joe Lombardo.
“Yes” was Hill’s one-word answer to announce her candidacy for governor on Facebook, in response to a Nevada Independent story reporting her campaign.
“I love being a county commissioner — it’s the most amazing thing that I’ve ever done, and I’m honored to do it,” said the Reno-born Hill, as per the Nevada Independent. “The reason I’m running is because I wish I were more effective.”
As chair of the Washoe County Board of Commissioners, Hill has overseen Nevada’s second-largest county by population since her election to the board in 2020. There, she represents the county’s 1st District, which includes part of Reno.
Hill’s previous campaign for Washoe County commissioner put a focus on environmental conservation, aiming to reduce carbon emissions and better preserve natural areas, including via “urban forestry.” Among other issues, she also talked about affordable housing.
“Chair Hill brings common sense leadership to the Washoe County Commission, and I’m proud to have earned her endorsement,” wrote Nevada Treasurer Zach Conine on Instagram. Conine recently announced a bid for attorney general.
But where Hill will fit into this governor’s election is unclear. Competitors Ford and Lombardo already hold considerably more political clout. Another Democrat, Steve Sisolak, who was the Nevada governor from 2019-2023, is eyeing a second go at the office.
Official filing for the campaign does not open until next year.
While still nearly a year and half away from the Nov. 3, 2026 general election, Hill will have to convince Nevadans she has something none of the bigger names in this race can offer.
