Democrat Aaron Ford wins Nevada governor race, becoming state's first Black governor

Democrat Aaron Ford has won the election for governor in Nevada, according to WTOP and the Associated Press. Ford defeated Republican incumbent Joe Lombardo in a closely watched race.

Ford, who has served as Nevada's attorney general since 2019, becomes the state's first Black governor. His campaign focused on affordability issues, including tackling student loan debt and opposing new tax breaks for artificial intelligence data centers, WTOP reported.

Ford criticized Lombardo for vetoing bills aimed at helping Nevadans, such as restrictions on corporate homeownership and free school meals. He also defended his record against attacks portraying him as soft on crime during his tenure as attorney general.

National Democrats, including California Governor Gavin Newsom and former Vice President Kamala Harris, supported Ford's campaign. The race was seen as significant for Democrats' efforts to expand control in key battleground states ahead of the next presidential election.

In addition to Ford's victory, Democrats Sandra Jauregui and Nicole Cannizzaro won elections for lieutenant governor and attorney general in Nevada, respectively, according to WTOP.