Democrat Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak in his Wednesday State of the State address welcomed parent involvement in schools and vowed to increase police funding in comments that amounted to a rejection of some of the most progressive voices in his party.
Sisolak faces a tough reelection race in November that’s rated a “toss up” by the Cook Political Report. And candidates in the GOP primary are hammering the governor over his COVID-19 response, the economy, the state’s schools and more.
The governor pushed back on the criticism against him in his address, arguing that things are looking up for Nevadans.
“Today, our economy is one of the fastest growing in the country,” he said. “Tourism is up, unemployment is down. Our students are back – with 100% of our classrooms in person. Gaming revenues are at an all-time high, and, more importantly, wages are up, too.”
But he also acknowledged issues Republicans have been grumbling about for months, and appeared to take a step toward the center on many issues.
Sisolak said education is “one of my very top priorities.” He touted state investment in schools during his term and also lauded increased parent involvement in schools – even as many other Democrats decry parents who want to help shape their children’s education.
“Your voices, your involvement, your thoughts are an important part of great schools. I will always support a strong parent involvement in making our education the best it can be,” he said. “I really believe the future of our state is directly tied to the quality of our schools. Last year, I worked with the legislature to commit $200 million to get our students caught up after the pandemic.”
It’s unlikely that those comments will placate Republicans angry about critical race theory, how long it took to get all of Nevada’s schools open, and that the governor did not lift school mask mandate until this month.
Story continues at: Dem wants to hear from parents
