Senate Republicans in Nevada rally behind Sam Brown, shedding their underdog status.
Army Veteran Sam Brown: From Underdog to Establishment Favorite
Army veteran Sam Brown has quickly risen from political underdog to establishment favorite as Republicans gear up for another shot at winning a Senate seat in purple Nevada.
The party came within 8,000 votes of defeating Sen. Catherine Cortez Masto (D-NV) there in one of the closest races of the 2022 cycle. The nominee then was former Attorney General Adam Laxalt, who defeated Brown, a relative political newcomer, in the Republican primary.
A New Opportunity for Brown
Despite losing resoundingly to Laxalt, Brown’s impressive fundraising skills and compelling personal backstory caught the attention of Senate Republicans. They were searching for candidates without the political baggage that plagued them in the previous cycle.
In July, Brown announced his second Senate run, this time challenging Nevada Democrat Jacky Rosen. Drawing on his military service and Purple Heart recipient status, Brown plans to emphasize his years of dedication to the country. This time, however, he will have the support of the Republican establishment.
Brown is one of several candidates recruited by Sen. Steve Daines (R-MT), the chairman of the National Republican Senatorial Committee, marking a departure from the hands-off approach of his predecessor.
While much of their focus has been on unseating Democrats in Montana and West Virginia, two states that supported former President Donald Trump in 2020, Daines sees Nevada as a crucial battleground. He believes Brown can achieve what Laxalt could not.
“I think we have a real opportunity to pick up the seat there,” said Sen. John Barrasso (R-WY), the No. 3 Republican in the Senate.
Strong Support from Party Leadership
The Republican Party leadership is openly backing Brown’s candidacy. Daines endorsed him on the day he launched his campaign, followed by an endorsement from Sen. Barrasso a week later.
Sen. John Thune (R-SD), the Senate minority whip, personally encouraged Brown to run, recognizing him as a terrific candidate with a compelling story. Thune believes Brown’s marriage to a South Dakota native adds to his appeal.
Building Momentum
While winning the nomination is not guaranteed, Brown is determined to establish momentum early in his campaign. In the first week alone, his team announced a $400,000 fundraising haul, significantly surpassing his primary opponent Jim Marchant’s $111,000 raised in the second quarter.
Endorsements also play a crucial role in signaling support. Brown has secured the endorsement of Sen. Marsha Blackburn (R-TN) and is receiving fundraising support from Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC). More endorsements are expected in the near future.
Brown recently traveled to Washington to meet with Senate Republicans, gaining the endorsement of Sen. Markwayne Mullin (R-OK) during those meetings. Other senators have expressed their inclination to endorse Brown, recognizing him as a strong candidate.
A Personal Story of Resilience
Brown’s personal story of resilience and sacrifice resonates with national Republicans. Despite not having the financial resources of other candidates, his recovery from severe burns sustained in an IED blast, requiring years of surgery and physical therapy, has garnered admiration.
If Brown defeats Marchant in the primary, his challenge in the 2024 cycle will be closely watched. Republicans view Nevada as a prime opportunity for a Senate seat pickup, alongside Montana, Ohio, and West Virginia.
“I think that, you know, outside of Montana, Ohio, West Virginia — it’s probably our best pickup opportunity,” said Vance.
Republicans need to gain two seats in 2024 to take control of the chamber, or just one if President Joe Biden loses reelection.
Democrats have already begun painting Brown as an extremist, highlighting his right-leaning stance on election security in the previous election. In response, Brown has launched his campaign with a centrist message, aiming to tie Rosen to what he calls the “extreme policies” of Biden.
“In the military, no one asks you what party you are in. They just want to know they can count on you to get the job done,” Brown stated in his campaign announcement. “That’s the attitude we need to tackle the problems of today.”
With his compelling story and growing support, Brown is poised to make a significant impact in the Nevada Senate race.
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