LAS VEGAS (KLAS) — A rally planned Saturday afternoon in downtown Las Vegas is stepping up the pushback against Republican Gov. Joe Lombardo's remarks that freeloaders are behind opposition to policy changes.
A protest under the banner, "We're Not Paid. We're Pissed," is planned from 1 p.m. to 4 p.m. at the Lloyd D. George Federal Courthouse at 333 S. Las Vegas Boulevard. Lombardo was quoted as saying that people were protesting because they were getting paychecks to do it, not because they were affected by the policies.
Former Democratic Gov. Steve Sisolak cited Lombardo's comments Friday when he told 8 News Now he is seriously considering a challenge to Lombardo in the 2026 election. Lombardo defeated Sisolak in the 2022 race for governor.
8 News Now reached out to Gov. Joe Lombardo's office, but they declined comment.
The protest is being staged by Indivisible Las Vegas, 50501, and the LV Grassroots Coalition. Organizers say they are upset about "corruption, market manipulation, digital overreach, and the targeting of everyday citizens."
A demonstration and speeches by concerned community members are expected to highlight the event, which organizers said is meant to build community solidarity on social justice and economic issues.
"Governor Joe Lombardo recently claimed that Nevada residents who protested at 'Hands Off' events were doing so for profit — calling them 'freeloaders' and accusing them of chasing 'government handouts.' He said the crowds weren't passionate, just paid," a news release announcing the event said.
"Let's remind our Governor: This is what democracy looks like," the announcement said.