The Republican primary for Senate in Nevada has been shaken up by a deep-pocketed rival taking aim at front-runner Sam Brown, a U.S. Army veteran. Jeff Gunter, the former ambassador to Iceland under President Donald J. Trump, has launched a $3.3 million advertising campaign with a MAGA message in an attempt to close the gap on Brown’s lead.
Gunter’s television ad, which began airing recently, criticizes Brown as a creature of the swamp and ties him to Senator Mitch McConnell, while also referring to him as “Scam Brown.” Despite Brown’s strong support from the National Republican Senatorial Committee and successful fundraising efforts, Gunter’s entry into the race has injected new energy and competition.
Brown, who has focused his attention on Democratic incumbent Senator Jacky Rosen, recently addressed Gunter for the first time at a private fund-raising event. He pushed back against Gunter’s accusations of being disingenuous and not pro-Trump enough, highlighting Gunter’s past as a registered Democrat and recent move from California.
While Brown remains the favorite to win the primary, Gunter’s aggressive campaign and significant financial resources have made the race more competitive. A recent poll commissioned by the N.R.S.C. and Brown’s campaign showed Brown leading with 58 percent of likely primary voters, while Gunter trailed in fourth place with 3.2 percent.
The potential endorsement of former President Trump could be a game-changer in the race, as Gunter hopes to gain his support. Gunter has criticized Brown’s lack of experience and pointed to his previous electoral losses, while facing scrutiny over his own past as a California Democrat and his tenure as ambassador to Iceland.
As the primary election on June 11 approaches, the battle between Brown and Gunter is heating up, with both candidates vying for the support of Republican voters in Nevada. The outcome of this race could have significant implications for the future of the Republican Party in the state.
