Nevada’s Lieutenant Governor on Entertainment Revitalization
Nevada Lieutenant Governor Stavros Anthony has come up with an intriguing strategy to breathe new life into the state’s entertainment industry. With significant business interests from Elon Musk, tapping resources to implement his plans shouldn’t be too difficult.
Anthony’s background is quite extensive. He boasts nearly three decades in law enforcement, has served as a regent for the state’s education system, and has considerable experience as a member of the Las Vegas City Council.
His recent campaign for Las Vegas mayor was quite vigorous, and since 2022, he has been working alongside Governor Joe Lombardo. Interestingly, this duo represents the only ticket in the U.S. where a Republican has unseated an incumbent Democratic governor and lieutenant governor.
In a recent discussion with Fox News at Freedom Fest in Las Vegas, Anthony shared insights about his career, Nevada’s economic landscape, and the highly competitive environment shaping the upcoming 2026 gubernatorial race.
Anthony is enthusiastic about Nevada’s reputation as a hub for entertainment, highlighting its lightly regulated environment that fosters entrepreneurship. He specifically sees immense potential in professional sports and emerging space tourism.
“Looking back a decade, we had no significant sports presence here,” he noted, reflecting on the skepticism around illegal gambling and corruption that previously kept major sporting events at bay. “Now, we’re essentially the sports capital of the world, with baseball, hockey, football, basketball, and even NASCAR making their marks.”
When discussing tourism, he emphasized that it’s not just about what he thinks could attract visitors; it’s essential for the industry to innovate itself. “Las Vegas thrives on unpredictability. The next big thing in tourism? Well, that’s really up to the businesses.”
He then turned his attention to space tourism, expressing his belief that it could be a game-changer for Nevada. “With vast open spaces, it’s a perfect spot for entrepreneurs like Elon Musk to launch rockets. Imagine inviting friends for drinks out there while gazing at Earth from above. That could be an unforgettable adventure!”
He believes his extensive law enforcement experience equipped him with valuable problem-solving skills applicable to his political role. “People often think of police work in dramatic terms, but really, a majority involves addressing community issues and enhancing quality of life,” he said. “As an elected official, it’s essential to work alongside people and explore how government can effectively assist.”
Regarding potential support for the Lombardo-Anthony ticket, Anthony highlighted President Trump’s backing and indicated that recent policy changes, particularly concerning tip tax exemptions, could significantly impact their campaign’s success.
He noted, “Trump has shown support for both the governor and myself. He understands the potential here in Nevada and how our policies directly influence everyday lives.” He expressed confidence in Trump’s future visits, recalling previous events that drew large crowds during his campaign.
Finally, Anthony reflected on the principles instilled in him by his immigrant parents from Cyprus—hard work, independence, and responsible governance. “They arrived with nothing but a determination to build a better life. They taught me to rely on oneself rather than seek government assistance,” he explained. “My aim is to support Nevadans in achieving their dreams without enabling dependency.”
