Las Vegas– Today Adam Laxalt announces his candidacy for Nevada Attorney General.  Laxalt, age 35, is a former US Navy Judge Advocate General and federal prosecutor.  He served for one tour in Iraq.  

Laxalt’s wife Jaime and ten-month old daughter Sophia join him on the campaign. Laxalt is a former Navy Prosecutor and Legal Advisor. While volunteering in Iraq he assisted with the detention and prosecution of terrorists in a war zone. He also has experience as a federal prosecutor. Born in Reno, Laxalt and his family have been a part of the Nevada's history since the early 1900’s.  His grandfather, Paul Laxalt, is a former Nevada governor and US Senator from Nevada.

“I’m honored to have served my country in the US Navy and Iraq and I would be greatly honored to serve my state as Attorney General.  I believe the people of Nevada –not the Federal Government – should be in control of decisions that affect our families.  I believe that smaller government fosters job growth and that by working with local law enforcement we can lower Nevada’s high crime rate,” Laxalt says. 

He concludes, “As a Navy prosecutor and legal advisor, my job was to protect our military communities as well as our most vulnerable people. In my time in Iraq, I assisted with the detention and prosecution of terrorists and gained a deeper commitment to America, the rule of law, and to service and leadership. I will never forget the leadership and sacrifices I witnessed daily by our men and women in uniform. It reassures me that America remains strong and we will always have people that answer the call of service and to lead in times of challenge. I pledge as attorney general to bring this same commitment to protecting the families of our state from dangerous criminals and an ever-growing Federal Government. As your Attorney General I’ll fight for a stronger, safer and freer Nevada.”

Las Vegas, NV - Today, Robert "Bob" List, a former Nevada Attorney General and Governor, announced his strong support for Adam Laxalt in his campaign for Attorney General.  Governor List, currently practicing law at Nevada-based law firm Kolesar & Leatham, served as Nevada's 24th Governor after serving two terms as Attorney General.  List has served as a Presidential or Cabinet Member appointee to governing and advisory boards and commissions under U.S. Presidents Nixon, Ford, Carter, and Reagan, as well as with both Bush administrations.

Governor List is joined in today's announcement by Joseph "Joe" W. Brown, a longtime Nevada attorney and former federal appointee in President Ronald Reagan's administration.  Brown has served Nevadans in numerous key positions, including as an appointee to the Nevada Department of Wildlife, the Nevada Athletic Commission, and currently, the Nevada Gaming Commission.  He is also the current Vice-Chairman of the Nevada Military Support Alliance, a group he co-founded during former Nevada Governor Kenny Guinn’s administration, which provides needed assistance to the families of fallen service men and women from Nevada.  

Las Vegas, NV - Today, United States Senator Dean Heller (R-NV) issued his endorsement for attorney and veteran Adam Laxalt as Nevada’s next Attorney General. 

“I applaud Adam’s choice to join our nation’s men and women in uniform as a Naval Officer and prosecutor,” Senator Dean Hellerstated.  “I endorse his candidacy for attorney general, where he will put his many talents and skills to use for the people of our state.”  

"Senator Heller has been a great leader for Nevada,” Adam Laxalt stated.  “He has served in our state legislature, as Nevada Secretary of State and now works tirelessly to protect our freedoms and principles in Washington.  I am honored to have his endorsement and support.” 

Las Vegas, NV - Today, both U.S. Congressman Mark Amodei (R-NV, 02) and U.S. Congressman Joe Heck (R-NV, 03) endorsed Adam Laxalt in his campaign for Attorney General.  Previous to his service as a Nevada State Assemblyman and State Senator, Amodei served as a lawyer in the United States Army Judge Advocate General Corps.  Heck, also a former Nevada State Senator, is a physician and currently holds the rank of Colonel in the United States Army Reserves. 

“The Laxalt family has given more to our state than nearly any other family in our history,” said Mark Amodei. “For over 100 years, as descendants from immigrant Basque parents, the Laxalt tradition has been to make Nevada a better place over the entire fabric of our communities. In such endeavors as agriculture, teaching, hospitals, churches, journalism, public service, and literature, the legacy endures and continues. Adam has already done his part for our country and Nevada and he will undoubtedly continue this great legacy of service for Nevada as your Attorney General.”

“As a fellow Iraq War Veteran, I can tell you that volunteering to serve in Iraq as a Naval Officer during the 2006 surge took great courage," said Joe Heck. “Selflessly serving during that difficult time is a testament to Adam's commitment to country and community.  I know he will make a great Attorney General.”

One week ago today, Adam Laxalt formally announced his candidacy for Attorney General.  Since then, Laxalt has earned the support of many other Nevada leaders, including Governor Brian Sandoval, U.S. Senator Dean Heller (R-NV), former State Treasurer Patty Cafferata, former Republican National Committee Chairman Frank Fahrenkopf, his grandfather, former Nevada Governor and U.S. Senator Paul Laxalt, former Governor Bob List and former National Committeeman Joe Brown.  

“I’m honored to earn the endorsements of both Mark Amodei and Joe Heck,” Adam Laxalt said.  “Both of these gentlemen have served our nation and our state with distinction, and continue to be strong advocates for all Nevadans in Congress.”

www.adamlaxaltforag.com

Las Vegas, NV - Today, candidate for Nevada Attorney General Adam Laxalt released the following statement concerning the possible listing of the sage grouse under the Endangered Species Act. Laxalt has spent the last couple weeks traveling through many rural counties in Nevada meeting with elected officials, industry leaders and regular citizens hearing their concerns about this issue.

"I applaud the ongoing efforts amongst Nevada citizens, local leaders and our bipartisan congressional delegation in preventing the possible listing under the Endangered Species Act of the Greater sage grouse,” Laxalt stated.  “Their hard work and determination on this issue is to be commended, and it is being widely noticed throughout our state."

“It is critically important that we have and maintain the full political weight and muscle of our state's citizens and leaders in fighting off efforts to list the sage grouse by this administration, or any future administration.  That includes the Nevada Office of the Attorney General."

"Should I be fortunate to serve as Nevada's next Attorney General, Nevadans can trust that I won't sit back and rely on others to fight this important fight alone.  Voters can trust that I will dedicate ample staff and resources to fight any federal attempts to impose such harmful regulations on our state and our citizens."

“Nevadans are still struggling to claw our way out of the recession.  Overreaching federal laws, regulations and spending are not helping.  Fortunately, the parts of our state that have done well during the past several years are those that have relied on mining.  Nevada’s mining and agriculture industries cannot survive such a listing by the federal government.  These industries make up two-thirds of our state’s top three."

“Nevadans are better equipped to handle this issue than Washington bureaucrats.  I trust the citizens, stakeholders and landowners here in Nevada to do what’s best and effectively resolve this issue, and I’ll stand alongside and assist them, and our federal delegation, as Nevada’s next attorney general.”

www.AdamLaxaltforAG.com

Date: March 1, 2014

Contact: Swati@AdamLaxaltForAG.com

Las Vegas, NV -- On Monday, March 3, 2014, Adam Laxalt will officially enter the campaign to become Nevada's next Attorney General when he files for office in Las Vegas, Nevada.  March 3rd is the first day of candidate filing in Nevada. Laxalt will be joined by his wife Jaime and daughter Sophia at the Nevada Secretary of State's southern Nevada office at 11:30 AM.

Mr. Laxalt will be available to the media after his filing for office is complete.

"My family and I are excited for Monday when I will officially become a candidate for Attorney General," Laxalt said. "Nevadans deserve an independent, strong and aggressive Attorney General who will protect our citizens from an ever-expanding, burdensome and costly federal government.  As Nevada's top law enforcement officer, I will protect and defend the laws and Constitution of our state."

WHAT: Adam Laxalt filing for Attorney General of Nevada

WHEN: Monday, March 3, 2014 --- 11:30 AM

WHERE: Grant Sawyer Building

              555 East Washington Avenue, Suite 5200 

              Las Vegas, NV 89101 

For more information on Adam Laxalt, visit his campaign web page www.adamlaxaltforag.com.

Las Vegas, NV – Today, Adam Laxalt officially entered the race for Attorney General of Nevada when he filed his campaign papers with the Secretary of State’s office.  Laxalt was joined by his wife Jaime and their daughter Sophia.  Currently a resident of Henderson, Nevada, Laxalt was born in Reno.  He is fourth-generation Nevadan and the grandson of former Nevada Governor and U.S. Senator Paul Laxalt.  

“My family and I are excited about this opportunity,” Laxalt stated.  “The Attorney General of Nevada serves as our state’s top law enforcement officer and I believe I am uniquely qualified to fulfill the duties of this office.  Nevadans deserve an Attorney General who will fight to defend our citizens and one who will also defend our laws and our state’s Constitution.  I will work tirelessly to see that all Nevadans, as well as our local communities and government bodies, are protected from an ever-increasing, expansive and overreaching federal government.”

Laxalt, age 35, is a former U.S. Navy Judge Advocate General and federal prosecutor.  He served in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom.  While volunteering in Iraq, he assisted with the detention and prosecution of terrorists in a war zone.     

“I believe the people of Nevada – not the federal government – should be in control of decisions that most affect our families,” Laxalt continued.  “Further, it is my belief that smaller government fosters job growth. We need to free Nevadans so they can start new business and expand existing ones. It’s regulations and laws like Obamacare coming out of Washington that are killing our economy and stifling our growth. I look forward to being a partner with Governor Sandoval to free our economy from federal control.”

“As a Navy prosecutor and legal advisor, my job was to protect our military communities as well as our most vulnerable people,” Laxalt added.  “In my time in Iraq, I assisted with the detention and prosecution of terrorists and gained a deeper commitment to America, the rule of law, and to service and leadership.  I’ll never forget the leadership and sacrifices I witnessed on a daily basis by my fellow men and women in uniform.  It reassures me that America remains strong and we will always have people who answer the call of service and lead during challenging times.” 

“As our attorney general, I pledge to bring this same commitment to protecting Nevada families from dangerous criminals,” Laxalt concluded.  “I will also add major emphasis to fighting Obamacare and the ever-growing federal government that is crushing our state and taking away our control.  As our Attorney General, I’ll fight for a stronger, safer and freer Nevada.”


Support:

“I am very proud of my grandson, Adam,” states former Nevada Governor and U.S. Senator, Paul Laxalt.  “I love him and wish him nothing but the best as he undertakes this exciting challenge.  The Office of Attorney General is an enormously important and prestigious position.  He has my complete support.”

---

“I’m honored to endorse Adam Laxalt’s campaign for Attorney General,” stated Nevada Governor Brian Sandoval. “I look forward to working with him as Nevada’s next Attorney General.”

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“I applaud Adam’s choice to join our nation’s men and women in uniform as a Naval Officer and prosecutor,” Senator Dean Heller stated.  “I endorse his candidacy for attorney general, where he will put his many talents and skills to use for the people of our state.”  

---

“As a fellow Iraq War Veteran, I can tell you that volunteering to serve in Iraq as a Naval Officer during the 2006 surge took great courage," said Joe Heck. “Selflessly serving during that difficult time is a testament to Adam's commitment to country and community.  I know he will make a great Attorney General.”

---

“The Laxalt family has given more to our state than nearly any other family in our history,” said Mark Amodei. “For over 100 years, as descendants from immigrant Basque parents, the Laxalt tradition has been to make Nevada a better place over the entire fabric of our communities. In such endeavors as agriculture, teaching, hospitals, churches, journalism, public service, and literature, the legacy endures and continues. Adam has already done his part for our country and Nevada and he will undoubtedly continue this great legacy of service for Nevada as your Attorney General.”

www.AdamLaxaltforAG.com

Las Vegas, NV – Today, Adam Laxalt announced that if he were elected as Nevada’s next Attorney General, he would join West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey’s effort to stop the Obama Administration from circumventing Congress in changing the unpopular government takeover of America’s health care system.  General Morrisey’s letter to Department of Health and Human Services Secretary Kathleen Sebelius (attached) is cosigned by 10 other state’s Attorneys General and points out that the changes and rewrites of the current Affordable Care Act are illegal under the U.S. Constitution and statutory law.  The comment letter states that the President is violating both his responsibility to execute the laws faithfully and the separation of powers between branches of our federal government. 

“The President’s job is to execute laws that are passed by the peoples’ representatives,” said Adam Laxalt.  “He has no Constitutional authority to make laws on his own, including massive changes and amendments to the current Obamacare legislation.  The series of actions he has taken go well beyond any interpretative authority he may have as the chief executive.”

“Few people are surprised that there are numerous problems with the unpopular health care law the President pushed through Congress on a strict, party-line vote” added Adam Laxalt.  “No major nation shifting law like this has ever been passed without bi-partisan support.  If the President actually worked with both parties to lead his initiative rather than jam it down America’s throat, then perhaps we could have avoided lost health care plans, increased costs, and millions of lost hours for Nevadans and businesses trying to figure this ever changing two thousand-page law.

“Obamacare is the most flawed piece of major legislation America has ever endured,” continued Laxalt.  “The President must now work with our nation’s representative to fix it.  The President cannot simply declare himself King and attempt to fix Obamacare all on his own.  We are a Republic and we the people still rule.  Rather than fulfilling his Constitutional role, the President is now illegally declaring unilateral changes, delays and exemptions to his law.  This President has no regard for the system of checks and balances that made this nation great.  Congress has a critical role to play in this process, both in oversight of how the law is implemented, as well as with any changes that need to be made.  That process requires amending the law, hopefully through open hearings in Congress and votes cast on the House and Senate floors.”

West Virginia Attorney General Morrisey is joined in this effort by the states of Alabama, Georgia, Idaho, Kansas, Louisiana, Michigan, Nebraska, Oklahoma, Texas and Virginia.  The letter specifically responds to a proposed federal rule regarding the implementation of the Affordable Care Act where the President recently announced that his Administration would allow insurance companies to continue offering plans that do not comply with the mandates under the new law.

“We support allowing citizens to keep their health insurance coverage,” stated West Virginia Attorney General Patrick Morrisey.  “But any changes to the law must be done legally and through the proper channels.  The Administration may not decide single-handedly which parts of the law it will enforce and which parts it will ignore.  The only way to fix this problem-ridden law is through congressional action.”

“We are deeply concerned that this Administration is consistently rewriting new rules and effectively inventing statutory provisions to operationalize a flawed law,” the attorneys general write in their letter to Secretary Sebelius.  “And the irony, of course, is that the changes being put forth to fix the disastrous exchanges will ultimately destroy the market and increase health insurance premiums for customers who played by the rules.”

 “Nevada voters should know that if I am honored to serve as our attorney general, I will work to ensure any U.S. President, regardless of party, respects the people, the rule of law and our carefully balanced system of government,” Laxalt concluded.  “Many top law enforcement officers from other states have called on this Administration to seek changes to the law through Congress, and I join them in urging the President to do what is both right and legal.  It is my hope that Ross Miller will make the same assurances to Nevadans.”

Laxalt officially filed as a Republican candidate for Nevada Attorney General last week.  He is supported in his campaign by former Nevada Attorney General and current Governor Brian Sandoval, former Governor and Attorney General Bob List, U.S. Senator Dean Heller, U.S. Congressman Mark Amodei (NV-02) and U.S. Congressman Joe Heck (NV-03).

Read the commentary regarding the legal and consumer privacy issues in Health and Human Service's proposed Affordable Care Act ruling from Attorneys General from 11 different U.S. states.

###

Las Vegas, NV– This Thursday in Las Vegas, former United States Ambassador to the United Nations, the Honorable John Bolton, will hold a campaign rally for Nevada Attorney General candidate Adam Laxalt.  Bolton will discuss the importance of electing Laxalt, an Iraq War Veteran and a former United States Navy and federal prosecutor, and how attorneys general throughout America are proving to be the strongest resistance to President Obama’s agenda. 

Ambassador Bolton will also be headlining a fundraising event later that evening for Laxalt at the law firm of Kolesar & Leatham in Las Vegas.  While the fundraiser is closed to the media, the noon event for Laxalt is open to media representatives who RSVP.  Mr. Bolton will be available for media inquiries regarding his support of Laxalt, as well as matters concerning the Russian invasion of Crimea in the Ukraine. 

WHO:  The Honorable John Bolton, Former U.S. Ambassador to the United Nations 

WHAT:  Campaign Rally in support of Adam Laxalt for Nevada Attorney General

WHEN:  Thursday, March 27, 2014; 12 noon

WHERE: Clark County Republican Headquarters- 5565 Decatur Blvd., Ste. 109, Las Vegas, NV 89118

www.AdamLaxaltforAG.com

From the desk of

Dear Friends:

For years, Nevada has been battered by federal overreach and the Obama Administration. But I have hope.

I write to introduce you to Adam Laxalt, a member of an up-coming generation of young, conservative leaders. Adam is running for Nevada’s Attorney General. Your generous, financial support for Adam will help keep Nevada free and secure.

Let me tell you three reasons why I support Adam, and why you should too.

First, he is courageous. Adam volunteered to serve in the U.S. Military in Iraq during the Surge where he helped assist in the detention and prosecution some of the world’s most dangerous terrorists. He will serve as Nevada’s Attorney General with the same bravery.

Second, he has a strong sense of public service. This sense runs deep within his family. I was honored to serve with Adam’s legendary grandfather, former Nevada Governor and U.S. Senator Paul Laxalt. Together, Paul Laxalt and I worked with our friend, President Ronald Reagan, to promote the fundamental American ideals we still hold dear. Adam has been endowed with his grandfather’s ideals. Adam has faithfully served as a U.S. Navy and federal prosecutor, as a law Professor at the U.S. Naval Academy, and as a lawyer in private practice who donates much of his time and talent to charitable endeavors.

Finally, Adam is committed to protecting Nevadans from federal overreach. Adam will use the Attorney General’s Office to fight for the rule of law and limited government. The Weekly Standard, the National Review, and other publications have noted that States’ Attorneys General are proving to be the most effective roadblock to the Obama Administration’s dangerous, liberal agenda. Adam has made a career defending the U.S. Constitution, and he will continue to do so as Nevada’s next Attorney General.

But we need your help. Your contribution of $25, $50, $100, or $250 will help Adam strike a blow for freedom. Your generous financial support will aid in getting Adam’s message of liberty out to Nevada voters.

There are a number of important campaigns across America this year, but no state race is as important as this one. I believe electing Adam Laxalt as Attorney General is of the highest priority.

Please help me support the next generation of conservative leadership in Nevada.

Sincerely,

Former Vice President Dick Cheney

Our opponents said we couldn't do it. They never gave us a chance. But in our campaign's very first reporting period, in what is our very first campaign for public office, we out-raised our so-called anointed Democratic opponent by a 2-1 margin.

Because of your help, we received more than $540,000 in donations; with admirable national figures and Nevadans lining up behind us:

You helped to make this possible, and helped show that there is support for those willing to push back against the status quo. We cannot stop, however. This is the beginning of a long year, and we will keep building on this foundation which has so bolstered and strengthened our campaign. Know that I remain eager and ready to serve Nevada, and have been motivated even more by the momentum this fundraising period has garnered so far. With your continued support, I am certain victory is possible in November. 

As the general election begins, 15 of Nevada’s 17 sheriffs endorse Laxalt in effort to become top law enforcement officer

Carson City, NV– Today, Republican nominee for Attorney General Adam Laxalt announced that he has earned the endorsement of 15 of Nevada’s 17 elected sheriffs from across the state.  Laxalt, already endorsed by Governor Brian Sandoval, is a former U.S. Navy Judge Advocate General and federal prosecutor.  He served in Iraq during Operation Iraqi Freedom, assisting with the detention and prosecution of terrorists and enemy combatants in a war zone.

“I am honored to have such strong support from many of our state’s top law enforcement officers,” stated Laxalt.  “These brave individuals have each earned the trust and confidence of the voters in their respective counties, and I’m working hard to earn their support, as well. 

“Our county sheriffs, including their deputies and support staff, serve on the front lines when it comes to defending our families and communities.  To have their trust in me as I seek the votes to become Nevada’s next Attorney General is truly humbling.”

The sheriffs endorsing Laxalt include: Anthony “Tony” DeMeo (Nye County), Kerry D. Lee (Lincoln County), Dan Watts (White Pine County), Stewart E. Handte (Mineral County), Ron Pierini (Douglas County), Allen Veil (Lyon County), Richard Machado (Pershing County), Ed Kilgore (Humboldt County), Jim Pitts (Elko County), Ben Trotter (Churchill County), Ron Unger (Lander County), Gerald Antinoro (Storey County), Kenneth Elgan (Esmeralda County), Kenneth E. Jones (Eureka County) and Ken Furlong (Carson City).

Along with the support of top law enforcement officers across Nevada, Laxalt has also earned endorsements from U.S. Senator Dean Heller, U.S. Congressman Joe Heck, U.S. Congressman Mark Amodei and former Nevada Governor Bob List. 

For more information on Adam Laxalt’s campaign for Attorney General, visit his webpage at: http://www.AdamLaxaltForAG.com or follow on Twitter: @AdamLaxalt

Fellow Nevada veterans, JAGs praise Laxalt’s call for increased legal services for service members, veterans and their families

Reno, NV– Today, Republican nominee for Nevada Attorney General Adam Laxalt unveiled a policy plan that will establish a division within the Attorney General’s office to help Nevada’s military community access critical legal services they and their families need.  A US Navy veteran, JAG, and Iraq veteran, Adam is uniquely qualified to spearhead a military legal office and he understands all the gaps and inadequacies in our current system.  As a JAG, Laxalt was responsible for protecting active duty and activated reservists from wartime legal vulnerabilities. He is committed to making sure our military community has all the legal assistance they need and deserve.

Laxalt’s policy initiative has two main components.  The first establishes coordination and delivery of legal services to veterans, active duty, Nevada Guard, and Reserve personnel by public and private sector lawyers throughout the state.  The second involves direct advocacy by the Attorney General’s office on behalf of Nevada’s military population. 

In a new report commissioned by Governor Brian Sandoval, a list of specific policy recommendations were published for Nevada’s veterans and military personnel.  The report was prepared by the Interagency Council on Veterans Affairs, a group created by an Executive Order signed by Governor Sandoval, and later codified in statute.  The council is made up of local, state and federal leaders throughout Nevada and is tasked with identifying ways to improve services to veterans, service members, and their families. 

“I wholeheartedly support Governor Sandoval’s commitment to our state’s veterans and applaud his efforts to make Nevada the most veteran and military-friendly state,” said Adam Laxalt.  “As many Nevadans know, the Governor recently commissioned a study that showed how our veterans and their families desperately need certain legal services.  I look forward to working with Governor Sandoval through his proclamation making 2014 the ‘Year of the Veteran’ in implementing this important veterans services program.”

The council surveyed Nevada veterans on their most pressing needs and 61 percent of respondents indicated that improved legal services is a top priority. 

(The full report can be found here: http://veterans.nv.gov/cmsdocuments/Final_Report_of_the_Interagency_Council_on_Veterans_Affairs.pdf with the specific reference to legal needs being found on Page 7 of the report). 

 Details of the Laxalt Plan:

The Legal Services Component will undertake responsibility for (1) establishing a network of public and private sector attorneys with a desire to help service the legal needs of our military community, (2) supporting that network with subject matter expertise regarding the federal laws that provide various benefits and protections our military community are entitled to through the assignment of deputy attorneys general to produce training materials and providing day-to-day subject matter expertise, (3) serving as a clearing house for legal issues within the military community and a matching service to coordinate the establishment of an attorney-client relationship between a fixed income veteran, or a lower-income active duty, guard or reservist with a community attorney, and (4) leading the charge to deliver pro bono legal services to members of our military community by setting a goal for deputy attorneys general to contribute a set number of hours of pro bono service annually in support of these legal services.  Laxalt aims to raise 10,000 pro bono hours from Nevada attorneys starting with 2,000 from his own office.

The Direct Advocacy Component will, as necessary, prioritize from the Attorney General’s office the prosecution of civil and criminal actions on behalf of members of Nevada’s military community, and more generally the people of the state, against (1) perpetrators of fraud in connection with our military and (2) fraudulent veterans and military-related associations attempting to defraud the public or veterans community for the supposed purpose of supporting veterans. The same attorneys assigned to support the Legal Services Component will also be responsible in taking on the duties of the Direct Advocacy Component.  

As Attorney General, Laxalt will prioritize the legal services needs of our military community and the prosecution of related fraud related through the establishment of this new division. In developing his plan, Laxalt consulted with veterans, legal experts, and Nevada policymakers and administrators.  They carefully reviewed the Attorney General’s office and budget, determining that this policy will require minimal new public financial resources.  This is because almost all of the funding required for this new division can be provided by reassigning a limited number of deputy attorneys general and related support staff.  

- The division established under the Laxalt plan will have responsibility for (1) building a network of public and private sector attorneys to deliver pro bono legal services to the military community, (2) providing subject matter support and training to that community, and (3) serving as a clearing house/matching service for legal services needs.    

- The division will also work to aggressively prosecute criminal and civil actions against those who defraud our military community. 

- Finally, this new division will seek to be budget neutral in that already employed Deputy Attorneys General and related support staff will be identified from within the current organization and reassigned under the Laxalt Plan.  

As Attorney General, Laxalt would serve as supervisor of the implementation of the plan, ensuring the following tasks are planned for and addressed:

1) SCRA claims– Intended to postpone or suspend certain civil obligations to enable deployed service members to devote full attention to duty and relieve stress on the family members of those deployed service members. A few examples of such obligations one may be protected against are:

                         - Outstanding credit card debt

                         - Mortgage payments

                         - Pending trials

                         - Taxes

                         - Terminations of lease (protection from eviction)

2) USERRA– USERRA protects civilian job rights and benefits for veterans and members of the active and Reserve components of the U.S. Armed Forces.  USERRA provides that returning service members must be promptly reemployed in the same position that they would have attained had they not been absent for military service, with the same seniority, status and pay, as well as other rights and benefits determined by seniority.

3) Financial Readiness Assistance– This program will assist those service members who enter into non-favorable financial obligations that they are unable to maintain.  These financial difficulties oftentimes cause a strain on readiness for our military men and women. Currently an active duty JAG will write a letter and try to assist in such situations.  Unfortunately, however, since these JAGs are often not Nevada-barred attorneys, their reach and effectiveness is limited.  Pro bono NV attorneys can assist in this program.

4) Consumer Protection– This program will work in the same relative fashion as the Financial Readiness Assistance program, however it will focus more specifically on pay-day lending and similar, short-term financial obligations. 

5) Adoption/Divorce/Wills – These are services active JAGs can often provide, but only if current availability, resources, and manpower allows for it.  This plan would allow for the new division in the Attorney General’s office to be a starting point to link needs-based active military and guard personnel with NV attorneys who can provide services for them.  This program will be a needs-based pro bono arrangement or perhaps a public private partnership to defray legal costs.

6) Prosecution of fraudulent veteran associations– These fraudulent and predatory-type organizations are unfortunately on the rise.  Soliciting money for our nation’s military community can attract the best of people and intentions, but also the worst.  Attorneys General need to take a bigger role in ensuring the public is not being scammed by fake veteran and active duty service organizations and that, when caught, the organizers of such scams are prosecuted to fullest extent of the law.

The Legal Service Component of Laxalt’s plan, which relies on public-private partnerships with pro-bono legal services, would cover items 1, 2, 3, 4 and 5 above.  The Direct Advocacy Component, within the Attorney General’s office, would oversee item 6. 

“I look forward to discussing my plan with our military community, related organizations, policy makers, and all Nevada voters throughout my campaign,” Laxalt continued.  “Our entire military community is a high priority for all of us in Nevada, and they deserve the time, attention and resources needed to address the growing need for legal services and assistance.”

SUPPORT FOR THE LAXALT VETERANS PLAN

“As a military commander, I know how hard it is for junior enlisted to afford legal services for civilian matters,” stated U.S. Congressman and Iraq War Veteran Joe Heck.  “Additionally, with a growing community of veterans, many of whom are on fixed incomes, this innovative proposal will help ensure those who serve or have served our Nation will receive legal representation when needed."

"As a lawyer, lawmaker, and veteran, I applaud Adam Laxalt's leadership on this important issue,” stated U.S. Congressman and former JAG, Mark Amodei.  “His veteran's proposal for the Attorney General's office will help address one of the most important needs of Nevada's Veterans, active duty, and reservist personnel. While I work in Washington to improve the healthcare provided by our Veterans Administration, I strongly support Adam's plan to increase access to Veteran's legal services."

“Adam Laxalt's plan is a needed improvement for helping Nevada veterans and their families,” stated Nevada Assemblyman Wes Duncan, who also served as a JAG in Iraq.  “From my experience in the state legislature, I can say this policy would be effective without duplicating bureaucracies already in place.  As a veteran myself, I know this proposal is badly needed for our active duty, reserve, and retired service members.  I wholeheartedly endorse this plan.”

“With Adam's proposal, veterans will have a recourse they can turn to help them advocate on their behalf,”stated Kirk Lippold, US Navy (Ret.) veteran and former Commander of the USS Cole. “This policy plan is a great step to preventing veterans and current active duty soldiers, sailors, and airmen from falling through the cracks. Legal issues are one of the top problems when they return from a deployment and I know this program will help. I wholeheartedly endorse this program and applaud Adam for adding to the discussion.”

"Adam is showing great leadership by actively proposing a solution to the ongoing troubles at the Veterans Administration,” stated Joe Brown, a veteran and longtime supporter of Nevada’s military community.  “I have been active in veterans support groups in Nevada for over forty years and appreciate how this proposal will help our vets during and after they serve.  I am proud to support this policy."

Reno, NV – Today, Republican nominee for Attorney General Adam Laxalt pledged to refuse to accept political gifts from individual donors, corporations and special interests.  Thus far, throughout his campaign, Laxalt has refused to accept any gifts – of any value – and from any special interests.  Further, Laxalt has pledged to maintain his refusal to accept political gifts should he be elected as Nevada’s next Attorney General. 

Laxalt’s position is in clear contrast with his opponent, Ross Miller, who has accepted tens of thousands of dollars in political gifts from dozens of corporate donors and special interests throughout his tenure as Secretary of State.

“The office of Attorney General should be above reproach and not tainted with any hint of special favors or conflicts of interest,” Laxalt stated.  “Throughout my campaign for Attorney General, I have refused to accept political gifts and I will maintain this position if elected.  Rather than waiting on the Legislature to change the law, I will lead by example on this issue. 

“There is a sharp and defining contrast on this issue between my opponent and me,” Laxalt continued.  “Ross Miller has enjoyed the perks of his taxpayer-funded job, happily accepting over $70,000 in political gifts from some 25 corporate donors and special interests.  I doubt there are many hardworking families in our state that have received an average of $10,000 per year in free gifts over the past seven years.

“We should be doing everything possible to show impartiality and fairness, not only to the citizens of Nevada, but to any party that may have an issue before the State,” concluded Laxalt.  “This is why a political gift ban is so important and why I challenge Ross Miller to pledge the same.”

Campaigns are about contrasts, and the issue of accepting political gifts is perhaps one of the most significant contrasts in Nevada’s race for Attorney General.  Adam Laxalt opposes them, at any value, for any reason, from any individual, donor, corporation or special interest.  Ross Miller, on the other hand, supports them and readily accepts them.  His record is quite clear:

• In just 5 years (2009 – 2013), Ross Miller gladly accepted political gifts from corporate donors totaling $71,668.
• Ross Miller has accepted 63 free gifts from 25 largely corporate donors.
• In 2010, while running for re-election to Secretary of State, Ross Miller accepted $28,989.92 in political gifts from special interests.
• On January 19, 2012, the Las Vegas Review-Journal reported that Ross Miller had accepted free political gifts such as luxury skybox football tickets, rodeo tickets and PGA golf tournament tickets.
• Among other gifts Ross Miller accepted: at least 19 banquet dinners worth nearly $6,000; free, lavish trips to “conferences” in places like Aspen and Chicago; numerous golf outings, and at least 14 sets of free seats to major sporting events.
• Largely because of the political gift-giving culture Ross Miller practices and embraces, Nevada was given a “D-” grade and ranked 42^nd of 50 states for transparency from the Center for Public Transparency.  Miller was specifically cited as part of the reason for the poor grade.
• The largest gift that Ross Miller received was an annual membership to the Vistage CEO leadership group.  According to the Vistage website, this membership allows Miller access to mix and mingle with CEOs of major corporations in an intimate setting.  

Nevada’s “D-“ Grade from the Center for Public Transparency: http://www.stateintegrity.org/nevada_story_subpage

Reno, NV – Today, former U.S. presidential candidate and Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney endorsed Adam Laxalt for Nevada Attorney General.  Governor Romney, who won convincingly in Nevada’s Republican presidential caucuses both in 2008 and 2012, has a strong following of activists and donors throughout the state. 

Governor Romney released the following statement this morning: 

“Nevadans have a great opportunity to elect a bright, experienced and qualified lawyer as their next Attorney General.  Adam Laxalt is a veteran of the U.S. Navy and served in a critically-important capacity as a JAG officer in Iraq, helping put away some of the world's most dangerous people.  He has been a leader in our military, and he will be a great leader for Nevada.   

“Just as he swore an oath to protect and defend our nation, Adam will fight effectively in protecting the laws and Constitution of Nevada on behalf of the great people who call the Silver State home.  I hope you will join me, along with Governor Brian Sandoval, U.S. Senator Dean Heller, Representative Joe Heck and Representative Mark Amodei in supporting Adam Laxalt as Nevada's next Attorney General.”

Adam Laxalt responded to the endorsement with the following:

“It is truly an honor to be supported by Governor Romney in my campaign for Attorney General.  He has had enormous success in both the public and private sectors, and he is a wonderful family man in his private life.  I was proud to have supported Mitt Romney in his campaign for President and I am humbled to have earned his support today.” 

Contact: Robert Uithoven – Media@AdamLaxalForAG.com

Business association points to Laxalt’s support for state’s job-providers

Reno, NV – Today, Republican nominee for Attorney General Adam Laxalt received the endorsement of the Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) Nevada Chapter. Associated Builders and Contractors is a national trade association representing nearly 22,000 merit shop contractors, subcontractors, material suppliers and construction-related professionals in 72 chapters across the United States, including Nevada.

“We are proud to endorse Adam Laxalt for Nevada Attorney General,” stated association president Michele Daugherty. “Adam’s commitment to the principles of free enterprise and his willingness to defend Nevada’s job-providers against unfair, burdensome and costly regulations will serve our state well.”

Las Vegas, NV– Today, Republican nominee for Attorney General Adam Laxalt released his first television advertisement of the campaign.  This specific ad, entitled “Service”, will be running statewide on both broadcast and cable television.  

The ad can be viewed here:

The ad focuses on Adam’s service to our nation as a U.S. Navy JAG officer.  It emphasizes his role as a military prosecutor during the “Surge” in Iraq where he handled thousands of cases against war criminals and terrorists.  The ad tells how Adam will use his experience in serving our nation to help fight crime here in Nevada, protect our seniors from fraudulent scams and expand legal services for the thousands of military families and veterans who call Nevada home.  Finally, “Service” points out that Laxalt has earned the endorsement of Governor Brian Sandoval and 15 of Nevada’s 17 sheriffs. 

In addition to the endorsement of Governor Sandoval and 15 of Nevada’s 17 elected sheriffs, Adam has recently earned the endorsement of the Nevada Chapter of the Associated Builders and Contractors, as well as the Nevada Chapter of the National Federation of Independent Businesses, among numerous others.