Nevada Governor Vetoes Bill Criminalizing False Presidential Electors
Las Vegas, NV — Governor Joe Lombardo has vetoed Senate Bill 102, designed to criminalize the filing of a false slate of presidential electors. The veto, part of a broader rejection of 32 bills on June 2, marked the end of the legislative session.
The controversial bill, which passed along party lines, sought to introduce a felony charge for creating a misleading slate of electors. If enacted, individuals found guilty could face one to four years in prison and fines up to $5,000. This legislation arose from events during the 2020 election when Nevada Republicans submitted a slate alleging support for Donald Trump, despite Joe Biden’s victory in the state.
Attorney General Aaron Ford has pursued legal action against the six individuals involved, charging them with offering a false instrument for filing and uttering a forged instrument. However, he noted the absence of specific statutes addressing the false electors issue, relying instead on existing general law.
In his veto message, Lombardo acknowledged the bill’s commendable intent but raised concerns over the powers it would grant the Secretary of State’s office. He cited a lack of investigation timelines and clear standards, warning it could lead to politically motivated enforcement in the highly charged atmosphere of presidential elections. Lombardo also expressed worry that the bill might inadvertently criminalize symbolic protests, raising potential First Amendment issues.
This is not the first time Lombardo has vetoed similar legislation; a comparable measure was rejected in 2023 due to perceived excessive penalties. The governor’s decision highlights ongoing tensions regarding election integrity and the legal frameworks governing it in Nevada.
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