Nevada’s Top Issues for the 2024 Election Season
The 2024 election season is drawing to its peak, and Nevada is set to play a crucial role in shaping the nation’s political landscape. Voters will decide on a range of issues that impact various levels of government, from statewide offices to local positions.
As the 2024 general election draws near, it's important to highlight key issues that are top-of-mind for Nevadans. Join us for some insight into these critical issues. We’ll also offer ways for candidates and volunteers to engage in the political process.
Top Issues for Nevada Voters in 2024
These are the key issues that will impact residents throughout the state. As of January, 2024, polling conducted by Emerson College found that Nevada residents ranked the top issues facing the state as:
Economy (29%)
Affordable Housing (13%)
Immigration (12%)
Education (11%)
Democracy (10%)
Crime (9%)
Healthcare (9%)
Abortion Access (4%)
With important elections on the horizon, understanding these issues is crucial for making informed decisions and shaping effective policies.
Below, we’ll go into some of these issues more in-depth:
#1: Housing Affordability and Homelessness
Housing affordability and homelessness are pressing issues in Nevada, especially in Reno and other parts of Washoe County. The state has seen significant increases in housing costs, which have gone up by 50% since 2019 and outpaced wage growth.
This has led to a shortage of affordable housing options, even for relatively high wage earners. What’s more, 19% of renter households in Nevada are classified as extremely low-income, while the average household income needed for a basic two-bedroom house is $64,203.
Homelessness also remains a critical concern, particularly in urban areas. Southern Nevada is seeing a 16% increase in homelessness, the largest in a decade, and an additional 16,251 residents could experience some degree of homelessness in the coming year in Clark County alone.
Recent discussions have focused on increasing the availability of affordable housing and providing better support services for the homeless population.
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#2: Water Resource Management
Water resource management is crucial for Nevada residents and business owners alike. The state faces chronic water shortages and relies heavily on the Colorado River, a water source that feeds roughly 40 million people spread out among seven states, tribal lands, and Northern Mexico.
Managing and conserving water resources is essential for both urban and agricultural needs. The ongoing drought and declining water levels in the Colorado River have intensified the need for innovative and effective water management strategies.
#3: Education Funding and Improvement
Education remains a key concern in Nevada, with debates centered around improving funding for public schools, addressing disparities in educational outcomes, and enhancing vocational training. There is a growing demand for increased investment in education to ensure better opportunities for all students. State legislators recently released their plan to improve education quality and access.
#4: Healthcare Access and Costs
Healthcare access and costs are significant issues in Nevada, particularly in rural areas where medical services can be limited. Expanding access to healthcare and addressing high medical costs are priorities for many Nevadans.
Recent discussions have focused on improving healthcare infrastructure and exploring options for expanding insurance coverage. In February 2024, for the first time, Nevada legislators released a plan to tackle issues related to healthcare costs, access, and outcomes.
#5: Economic Diversification and Job Creation
Economic diversification is a key issue for Nevada, which has traditionally relied heavily on tourism and gaming. Expanding the state’s economic base and creating new job opportunities are essential for long-term economic stability.
There is a push to attract new industries and support small businesses to foster a more resilient economy. In addition, Governor Lombardo announced plans to attract international investment based on the state's low cost of doing business and favorable regulatory climate.
In addition to these top issues, Nevada residents will also be voting on various ballot measures in November. Six of these are proposed amendments to the state constitution, and one is a voter-led ballot initiative on abortion access. Question 3, which will appear on Nevadans’ ballots, will let voters weigh in on implementing top-five primaries and ranked choice voting for general elections.
Top Issues in Nevada’s Largest Cities
In addition to these wider issues that affect all Nevadans, there are critical issues that impact select communities on a more personal level.
These are some of the top issues facing residents in Nevada’s five largest cities:
Top Concerns in Las Vegas
Population: 2,953,000
Tourism and Infrastructure
Las Vegas, a major tourism hub, faces ongoing challenges related to infrastructure and the impact of tourism on local resources. Managing the balance between accommodating tourists and maintaining the quality of life for residents is a key issue.
Crime and Public Safety
Although violent crime is down slightly over last year, crime rates and public safety are still significant concerns in Las Vegas. Efforts to address crime and improve community safety are ongoing.
Main Issues in Henderson
Population: 343,382
Growth and Development
According to recent reports, Henderson is one of America’s fastest growing cities. Due to this rapid growth, city leaders face challenges in urban planning and development. Managing this growth while ensuring adequate public services and infrastructure is a key issue for Henderson.
Environmental Concerns
Environmental issues, including sustainability and conservation, are becoming increasingly important in Henderson. Addressing these concerns while supporting development is a key challenge.
Top Problems in North Las Vegas
Population: 292,623
Infrastructure and Public Services
North Las Vegas faces challenges related to infrastructure development and the provision of public services. Ensuring that growth is matched with adequate services is a key concern.
Crime and Safety
Addressing crime and improving safety in North Las Vegas are significant issues for residents. Crime rates in the city are slightly higher than the national average, but property crimes outnumber violent crimes by a margin of 4:1.
Issues to Watch in Reno
Population: 278,226
Housing and Homelessness
Similar to other parts of Nevada, Reno faces challenges related to housing affordability and homelessness. Efforts to increase affordable housing and support homeless individuals are crucial.
Economic Development
Approximately 65% of the city’s workforce is employed in trade or service industries. Reno is working on diversifying its economy and attracting new businesses to enhance economic stability, with the focus on startups, technology, and community development.
Key Concerns in Spring Valley
Population: 221,531
Community Development
Spring Valley is focused on community development and enhancing local amenities. Projects aimed at improving quality of life and fostering community engagement are key issues. These include a multi-million dollar investment in plans to improve parks and open spaces as well as economic and workforce development for the city’s growing population.
Environmental Sustainability
As with other cities in Clark County, Spring Valley has struggled with issues related to environmental sustainability and conservation. Addressing these concerns regarding air quality, water scarcity, and controlling urban/suburban sprawl while supporting community growth are key challenges for Spring Valley.
How to Get Involved in Local Politics in Nevada
As you can see, there’s a lot to consider for candidates and voters alike as the 2024 election season hearts up. Two wild card factors that could impact voter turnout — and election results — in Nevada are voter fatigue and turnout from Generation Z.
Read on for information for Nevadans who are looking to make a difference in 2024 and beyond:
Tips for Nevada Voters and Volunteers
With the November 5, 2024 general election only a few months away, the time is coming to get ready to vote. Voters can prepare for election day by checking their voter registration status, staying informed about the candidates running for office in their area, and making a plan to request a mail-in ballot or get to the polls on November 5.
Additionally, volunteers are always helpful for political campaigns. Political volunteering is a great way to contribute to your community and support candidates who align with your values.
Find out how you can get involved and make an impact by booking an info session with GoodParty.org.
Tips for Political Candidates in Nevada
There’s no better time to run for office in your local community than the present.
Are you on the ballot in Nevada this year, or do you know someone who is? GoodParty.org offers free campaign tools for independent, non-partisan, and third-party candidates in Nevada and across the country. Learn more and get access to our free suite of campaign software here.
Want to run for office in Nevada in 2025 or beyond? Explore upcoming elections in Nevada here.
Final Thoughts
As the 2024 election season approaches, understanding the top issues facing Nevada and its cities is essential for voters and candidates alike. Being informed about these issues and actively participating in the political process will help shape the future of the Silver State.
Whether you’re running for office, getting ready to vote, or looking to support candidates you can trust, your involvement is vital to creating positive change in Nevada, and GoodParty.org has the information and resources you need to support your local community.
Photo by Mesha Mittanasala on Unsplash
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