Bodycam footage released from a May 15 traffic stop shows Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo identifying himself to a police officer after being pulled over for allegedly failing to stop at a red light before making a right turn. The interaction, which lasted approximately 15 seconds, has drawn partisan reactions, with critics accusing Lombardo of using his position to avoid a citation and his supporters arguing it was a routine encounter.
The footage shows an officer approaching Lombardo and his wife, Donna, explaining the reason for the stop. Governor Lombardo then interjected, stating, "I'm Joe Lombardo." The officer acknowledged, "I'm aware," and proceeded to explain the traffic violation. Lombardo responded with an exasperated "Come on, man." The officer then allowed the governor to leave without issuing a ticket.
Governor Lombardo, elected in 2023, is facing re-election in November against Democrat challenger, Nevada Attorney General Aaron Ford. His campaign stated that he and his wife were en route to the airport when they were stopped by the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department. The campaign defended Lombardo's actions, asserting he "fully complied with all instructions, and was promptly on his way." It also stated that the governor was introducing himself "as a matter of courtesy" and did not seek preferential treatment.
Democrats, however, have sharply criticized the governor's behavior. Olivia Davis, a spokesperson for the Democratic Governors Association, called the video "proof that Joe Lombardo is a corrupt and out-of-touch politician who thinks he can play by a different set of rules than everyday Nevadans." Nevada Democrats released a statement questioning whether such an interaction should be permissible for ordinary citizens.
Conversely, some defended Lombardo, characterizing the incident as inconsequential. Steve Grammas, president of the Las Vegas Police Protective Association, which endorsed Lombardo, described the interaction as "a big nothing." Grammas suggested that officers often do not run the licenses of public figures like the governor, who is also a former Clark County Sheriff, if they are not suspected of having warrants or a suspended license. He argued that the officer likely recognized Lombardo and saw no need for a license check.
Edward Obayashi, a deputy sheriff and policy adviser who teaches ethics and policing, echoed this sentiment, stating that Lombardo did not act unethically. Obayashi noted that motorists are frequently let off with a warning and that it was evident the officer knew who the governor was.
