Representative in Congress District 2 in Congressional District 2, Nevada

2026 Primary Election

• Teresa F. Benitez-Thompson — Chief of Staff in Reno, NV

  Teresa F. Benitez-Thompson, born in 1978, is a social worker and former Democratic Majority Leader of the Nevada Assembly for District 27, where she served from 2010 to 2022. A former Miss Nevada 2002, she holds degrees from the University of Nevada, Reno and the University of Michigan. She currently serves as Chief of Staff to the Nevada Attorney General. Benitez-Thompson announced her candidacy in February 2026 for the U.S. House of Representatives in Nevada’s 2nd Congressional District. She is running to address the high cost of living, protect social safety nets, support green energy programs, and advocate for tribal communities, seeing a path forward as the seat is open.

• Kathy Durham — Teacher in West Wendover, NV

  Kathy Durham, a rural Democrat, is running for Congress in Nevada’s 2nd District. An educator teaching government, history, and economics at West Wendover High School, she previously served on her local city council. She holds degrees from the University of Utah and Walden University, and comes from a family with a strong military service legacy. Durham is motivated to restore democracy, prioritize people over profit, and expand Medicare for all. She believes current events echo dark chapters of history and aims to bring a civics lesson to Washington, fighting for communities over corporations.

• Gamaliel Z. "gamy" Enriquez — Candidate for U.S. House of Representatives in NV

  Gamaliel "Gamy" Zavala Enriquez is a Democratic candidate seeking to represent Nevada's 2nd Congressional District in the 2026 U.S. House of Representatives primary election. His platform centers on "universal economic policies for all, from cradle to grave," advocating for universal baby bonds, childcare, parental leave, and healthcare to promote human freedom and dignity. He supports fully funded public schools with equitable resources, particularly for rural and tribal communities, and emphasizes free pre-kindergarten. Enriquez also champions well-funded first responders, disaster preparedness, raising the minimum wage to a living wage indexed to inflation, protecting the right to organize, and implementing universal paid leave for all workers. He is among several candidates vying for this congressional seat, which is described as "completely up for grabs."

• Matthew Fonken — Political organizer in NV

  Matthew Fonken, a longtime political organizer, is running as a Democratic candidate for the U.S. House to represent Nevada's 2nd Congressional District in the 2026 primary election. He seeks to secure a seat that is open due to the incumbent's retirement, seeing an opportunity for Democrats. Fonken advocates for federal protection for reproductive freedom, defense of LGBTQ+ rights, and policies to lower prescription drug costs and support those facing economic hardship. He is committed to robust investment in wildfire prevention and land management, the protection of public lands, and expanding immigration processing services while opposing the existence of ICE.

• Gerold L. Gorman — Candidate for U.S. House of Representatives in Reno, NV

  Gerold Lee Gorman, a Democratic candidate for U.S. House in Nevada's 2nd Congressional District, advocates for addressing the causes of corruption and inequity. He holds an engineering physics degree from U.C. Berkeley and moved to Reno in 2013 after living most of his life in California. His diverse career includes a decade in broadcasting, software development at companies like Microsoft, teaching in California public schools, and entrepreneurial ventures such as a club DJ. A Bernie Sanders delegate in both 2016 and 2020, Gorman has been actively involved with Washoe County Democrats. He plans to provide updates on issues facing Nevada and the world through his campaign website.

• Josh Hebert — Scientist in Reno, NV

  Josh Hebert, a 55-year-old Reno-born physicist and father of two, is seeking the Democratic nomination for Nevada's 2nd Congressional District in 2026. He holds a Ph.D. in physics from the University of Texas at Austin and a bachelor's from San Francisco State University, with a background also in film production. Hebert feels compelled to run because he believes the system is broken and Americans are losing faith. His top priority is getting big money out of politics. He also advocates for codifying abortion rights, scrutinizing federal law enforcement agencies like ICE and CBP, reforming presidential emergency powers, and improving access to mental health care. He recently moved to Reno.

• Mark Jolle — Small business owner and entrepreneur in NV

  Mark Jolle is a Democratic candidate who was running for the U.S. House to represent Nevada's 2nd Congressional District in 2026, but has since suspended his campaign. He moved to Nevada around 2000, calling it home since 2006, where he built a small business. Jolle earned a high school diploma from Roswell High School and a bachelor's degree from the University of West Florida in 2006. His career experience includes working as an archaeologist and entrepreneur. Key policy stances included addressing affordability, promoting renewable energy, supporting small businesses by cutting red tape, strengthening access to quality education, and advocating for housing for living rather than speculation. He aimed to bring grounded, accountable leadership.

• Johnny E. Kerns — Retired homicide investigator in Carson City, NV

  Johnny E. Kerns is a Democratic candidate vying for Nevada's 2nd Congressional District in the 2026 U.S. House election. A retired homicide investigator and true-crime author, Kerns brings experience from the U.S. Department of Justice and prior service as a Justice of the Peace. He also previously ran for State Senate in 2024. Kerns, who holds a degree in forensic psychology, emphasizes his seasoned leadership is essential for navigating Congress. His platform prioritizes addressing the federal deficit, economic revitalization, affordable healthcare, and tackling the housing crisis. He advocates for reducing regressive taxation and improving education through spending efficacy, not just increased funding, while promoting transparency and bipartisan consensus.

• Robert G. "greg" Kidd — Candidate for Representative in Congress in NV

  Robert "Greg" G. Kidd is seeking to represent Nevada's 2nd Congressional District in the 2026 Primary Election for the U.S. House of Representatives. He advocates for federal legislation to secure abortion access as a civil right, emphasizing bodily autonomy, and intends to enhance comprehensive reproductive health services by attracting more healthcare professionals to NV-02. Kidd is also a proponent of a universal digital ID system for state services, including voting and benefits, viewable on mobile phones. He asserts that such an inclusive, electronic, and easily obtainable ID is a birthright, urging Nevada to modernize its civic infrastructure.

• Morgan Wadsworth — University Student in Reno, NV

  Morgan Wadsworth is a sixth-generation Nevadan, born and raised in Northern Nevada, running as a Democrat for the U.S. House to represent Nevada's 2nd Congressional District in 2026. A first-generation college student currently attending the University of Nevada, Reno, she grew up in a working-class family and held various blue-collar jobs from a young age. Wadsworth aims to confront corruption and empower Nevadans, asserting the district doesn't need another career politician. Her policy stances include codifying Roe v Wade, supporting LGBTQ+ rights, advocating for universal healthcare alongside common-sense gun laws, and reforming government to get big money out of politics. She brings a unique understanding of both urban and rural Nevada issues, drawing from her family's ranching background and experience in Reno.

• Samuel White — Candidate for U.S. House of Representatives in NV

  Samuel White is a Democratic candidate for the U.S. House, aiming to represent Nevada's 2nd Congressional District in the 2026 primary election on June 9. He completed his high school education at Carson High School and has professional experience as a bus driver. White is engaging with voters and media, discussing his reasons for running and presenting himself as the right candidate for the moment.

• Jennifer Billat — Small business owner in Reno, NV

  Jennifer Billat, a Republican, is running for the U.S. House to represent Nevada's 2nd Congressional District in 2026. A native Nevadan, Billat is a parent and business owner who champions the state's public schools. Her platform focuses on protecting Nevada's land and hunting heritage, returning strategic land control, and addressing the housing crisis. She advocates for enforcing immigration laws, prioritizing the deportation of criminal illegal immigrants, and proposes using AI to identify government waste. Billat aims to create sustainable senior housing and preserve Medicare, presenting herself as a proven leader committed to Nevada-first solutions and lasting change for the state.

• Tom Doyle — Candidate for Representative in Congress in NV

  Tom Doyle is a strong conservative running for Congress in Nevada's 2nd Congressional District in 2026. A Nevada resident for 50 years, he lives with his wife Lori, their three children, and four grandchildren. Doyle brings over 45 years of business experience from the casino industry, including roles with Nevada Gaming Control, Peppermill Casinos, Scientific Games, and as a $100M casino General Manager. He advocates for robust support and protection for law enforcement, an "all-of-the-above" energy strategy, and a strong national defense with decisive action against foreign threats. He opposes costly U.S. climate restrictions while other nations operate freely.

• David Flippo — Retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel and Business Owner in NV

  David Flippo, a Republican, is a retired U.S. Air Force Lieutenant Colonel and business owner running for Nevada's 2nd Congressional District. Born in Maryland, he served in the Air Force from 1985 to 2009 and holds bachelor's and graduate degrees. Describing himself as a "Trump Republican" and "America First" conservative, Flippo advocates for small government, strong leadership, and ending illegal immigration, proposing a ban on Sharia law in the U.S. He emphasizes his background as a battle-tested patriot aiming to bring proven Republican leadership to Congress. He is endorsed by numerous conservative figures and organizations.

• George Forbush — Candidate for U.S. House of Representatives in NV

  George Forbush is a fourth-generation Nevadan with deep roots in the state, tracing family ties to ranchers and farmers in Yerington and Fallon, and maternal Mexican heritage. He is a Republican candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives, representing Nevada's 2nd Congressional District in the 2026 primary election. Forbush advocates for protecting Nevada's public lands, opposing large-scale sales, and enforcing anti-dumping measures. He supports a balanced energy approach, embracing renewables while promoting next-generation nuclear power for consistent demand. His campaign tagline is "Defending Nevada’s Values" and "Defending the Silver State Spirit."

• Bruce Grego — Candidate for U.S. House of Representatives in NV

  Bruce Grego is a Republican candidate seeking election to the U.S. House to represent Nevada's 2nd Congressional District in the 2026 primary election. He is motivated to run as he believes the district is currently open and he is the right candidate for this moment. Among his stated concerns, Grego has highlighted the issue of excessively high food prices, which he believes require attention and solutions. If elected, he intends to prioritize extensive travel throughout the district, engaging with diverse communities, including urban, rural, tribal, and mining areas, to foster communication and address their specific concerns.

• Andrea Lowe — School Board Director in NV

  Andrea Lowe, a seventh-generation Nevadan and Republican, is running for the U.S. House in Nevada’s 2nd Congressional District in 2026. A wife and mother, she serves on the Lander County School Board and is a board director for the Nevada Association of School Boards. Lowe, not a career politician, aims to represent both rural and urban Nevada, focusing on veterans, first responders, the Second Amendment, and an economy free of red tape. She also advocates for more transparent, competitive healthcare. Despite requests to withdraw from "political insiders," Lowe remains in the race, believing the decision belongs to the people.

• Jerry Olsen — Retired Deputy Sheriff in NV

  Jerry Olsen is a Republican candidate for Nevada's 2nd Congressional District in the 2026 primary election. A family man with two children and seven grandchildren, he has dedicated his life to public service, retiring as a medic from the U.S. Army and later as a Deputy Sheriff for Washoe County in 2020. Olsen advocates for no taxes for those 70 or older, strengthening veteran's benefits, single-subject clean bills without amendments, and no congressional pay raises without a balanced budget. He also seeks to enact comprehensive immigration laws and address Nevada's affordability crisis. Running a pure grassroots campaign, he aims to defend rights, uphold the law, and be a strong voice for Nevadans.

• James A. Settelmeyer — Nevada Director of Conservation and Natural Resources in NV

  James A. Settelmeyer is an agriculturalist and currently serves as Nevada's Director of Conservation and Natural Resources, a position he assumed in January 2023. Known as "Mr. Rural Nevada" due to his deep roots and extensive legislative history, he has previously won multiple terms in both the Nevada State Senate and Assembly. Settelmeyer is running as a Republican for the U.S. House to represent Nevada's 2nd Congressional District in the 2026 primary. This open seat follows Rep. Mark Amodei's retirement. Settelmeyer faces a competitive primary, where his traditional Republican stance is being weighed against candidates with "MAGA" outsider backing. He has previously collaborated with the Trump administration on water rights issues.

• Rick Shepherd — Candidate for Representative in Congress in NV

  Rick Shepherd, a Republican, is campaigning for the U.S. House to represent Nevada's 2nd Congressional District in the 2026 election, appearing on the Republican primary ballot on June 9. He has previously run for this office, losing in the primaries of 2018 and 2020. A key part of his platform includes a pledge to support a constitutional amendment for congressional term limits, advocating for three House terms and two Senate terms. He has also expressed a focus on demanding the full release of the Epstein files and public trials. Shepherd aims to replace what he views as career politicians with citizen legislators.

• Fred J. Simon Jr. — General Surgeon in NV

  Fred "Doc" J. Simon Jr., a Republican, is campaigning for the U.S. House of Representatives in Nevada's 2nd Congressional District. A physician, educator, and entrepreneur, he has extensive experience as a general surgeon at multiple hospitals and served as a support trauma surgeon at the White House. He emphasizes his leadership and problem-solving skills, stating he is running to ensure constituents feel safe and supported. His platform focuses on expanding down payment assistance for American homebuyers, regulating insurance costs, tax relief for first-time buyers, protecting Social Security, and achieving a balanced federal budget. He calls Douglas County, Nevada, home, aiming to bring real-world solutions to Washington.

• Michael "mike" Smith — Senior Tactical Systems Analyst for the Dept. of the Navy in Reno, NV

  Michael "Mike" Smith is a retired U.S. Navy Reserve Captain, former Navy fighter pilot, and a 30-year resident of Northern Nevada. After 30 years of dedicated military service, including combat deployments, commanding units at NAS Fallon, and serving as Nevada's Navy Emergency Preparedness Liaison Officer, he retired as a commercial airline pilot. He currently works as a Senior Tactical Systems Analyst for the Department of the Navy. A conservative Republican, Smith announced his candidacy for the U.S. House to represent Nevada's 2nd Congressional District in the 2026 primary election. His campaign focuses on protecting military bases, supporting warfighters and veterans, championing rural county interests, and delivering pragmatic solutions. He is committed to accessibility, responsiveness, upholding the U.S. Constitution, and avoiding conflicts of interest. He previously sought office for NV Assembly Dist 30 in 2022.

• Sherman Tylawsky — Doctoral candidate in Carson City, NV

  Sherman Tylawsky is a Republican candidate for Nevada’s 2nd Congressional District in the 2026 election. A Carson City resident, he is described as young, diligent, and responsible. Tylawsky holds a BA in Politics from King's College London and a Master of International Affairs from Texas A&M University. His background includes interning for Members of Congress, working for elected officials, and teaching college classes. His campaign focuses on economic development, affordable housing, and workforce development, advocating for prudence in public finances and fundamental education. He believes he can apply core principles to serve Nevada.

• Jesse J. Watts — Incumbent Eureka County Sheriff in NV

  Jesse Watts is a Republican candidate for the U.S. House of Representatives, seeking to represent Nevada's 2nd Congressional District in the 2026 election. He currently serves as Eureka County Sheriff until the end of 2026. Watts advocates for policies that reduce inflation, lower everyday costs for Nevada families, and support small businesses by easing federal regulations. He emphasizes federal government accountability to taxpayers, ensuring Nevada receives its fair share of resources with transparency. Additionally, Watts champions investments in infrastructure, water resources, and transportation to support sustainable growth across the region.