Nevada Governor Race Intensifies as Lombardo and Ford Compete

Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo recently appeared on ‘Saturday in America’ to discuss his electoral contest against Attorney General Aaron Ford. The race has become one of the most closely monitored gubernatorial elections, drawing attention to Ford’s support for clemency in certain cases involving convicted murderers.

Attorney General Aaron Ford faced criticism over his endorsement of clemency for several individuals convicted of severe crimes. These include the kidnapping and execution-style murder of a teenager, the murder of a Pizza Hut worker, and the cinder block beating of another victim. Ford, currently running for governor in an attempt to replace incumbent Republican Governor Joe Lombardo, has made decisions on clemency that have sparked debate and controversy.

During Ford’s tenure as attorney general, a review conducted by Fox News Digital revealed his support for clemency of numerous violent offenders. This includes cases where sentences were reduced or parole eligibility was granted for convicted killers, although some of those requests were denied. Among these offenders was Michael Cu, who executed a 16-year-old in a desert to steal car rims.

The Role of the Nevada Board of Pardons Commissioners

In Nevada, governors lack unilateral power to grant pardons or commute sentences. These decisions involve the Nevada Board of Pardons Commissioners, composed of the governor, attorney general, and Nevada Supreme Court justices. Lombardo and Ford have both participated in these critical votes, often standing on opposing sides in high-profile cases.

Aaron Ford’s Campaign Focus

Ford’s campaign emphasizes his experience as attorney general, highlighting his collaborations with law enforcement to address crime and secure communities. His campaign website points to his actions against corporate malpractice, illegal drug trafficking, and the backlog of rape kits.

Republican opposition highlights Ford’s clemency decisions during his campaign. Notably, Ford expressed strong support for parole eligibility in several controversial cases, including those involving murders committed at a young age and cases the public finds especially egregious.

Instances such as Ford voting for parole eligibility for Shaquille Hazelwood, who committed murder during a robbery when he was 15, have been particularly contentious. Ford has publicly justified some decisions as believing in the potential for reform.

Critiques and Support for Clemency Decisions

Ford’s decisions to support parole for individuals convicted of heinous crimes like thrill killings have sparked debate. Deputy District Attorney Christopher Lalli opposed parole for one such case, citing the murder’s chilling nature.

Despite controversies, Lombardo and Ford found common ground on some clemency cases. Both supported the pardon of a man exonerated by DNA evidence after initially being found guilty of orchestrating a contract killing.

Ford’s campaign and official office did not provide a comment regarding these matters when contacted by Fox News on Wednesday.