Former President Donald J. Trump Endorses Sam Brown in Nevada Senate Race
Former President Donald J. Trump Endorses Sam Brown in Nevada Senate Race
In a surprising move, former President Donald J. Trump announced on Sunday that he is endorsing Sam Brown, the Army veteran who is leading the crowded Republican primary field in Nevada’s U.S. Senate race. Trump made the announcement on his social media site, Truth Social, calling Brown a “fearless American patriot” who will fight tirelessly to protect the border and improve the economy.
The endorsement comes just days before the primary on June 11, with early voting already concluded. Despite the timing, Trump’s endorsement solidifies Brown’s position as the front-runner and heavy favorite to advance to the general election in November against Democratic incumbent Senator Jacky Rosen. Brown has already raised more money than his primary rivals, received the endorsement of the state’s Republican governor, Joe Lombardo, and has consistently led in recent polls.
While Brown has been campaigning as a strong supporter of Trump, the former president’s endorsement was still eagerly awaited. Brown’s primary rivals, including wealthy dermatologist Jeff Gunter, had sought to capitalize on any potential hesitation from Trump. Gunter positioned himself as a MAGA candidate and criticized Brown in television ads in hopes of securing Trump’s endorsement.
In response to Trump’s endorsement, Brown expressed his gratitude and said he looks forward to working with Trump to bring a better future to Nevada and America. However, Senator Rosen’s campaign criticized the endorsement, calling Brown a “MAGA extremist” who puts partisan politics ahead of what’s right.
Brown, a former Army captain who was severely injured in Afghanistan in 2008, has a compelling personal story that resonates with voters. If he advances to the general election, he could benefit from Trump’s popularity in Nevada, a state that has not voted for a Republican at the presidential level since 2004.
With Nevada’s economy still recovering from the pandemic and Senator Rosen distancing herself from President Biden, the race is shaping up to be a closely watched contest in November. Brown’s endorsement from Trump adds another layer of intrigue to an already competitive race.
