An intense battle is brewing within the Republican Senate primary in Nevada, causing a rift among those associated with former President Donald Trump. The upcoming race against Democratic incumbent Sen. Jacky Rosen is anticipated to be highly competitive, with Trump and the National Republican Senatorial Committee taking different stances.
Senator Steve Daines, the NRSC chairman, has recruited Sam Brown, a retired Army captain who suffered severe injuries in Afghanistan, to run in the November election. Brown recently sought Trump's endorsement during a meeting at Mar-a-Lago, but this move has angered some of Trump's ardent supporters who are backing Dr. Jeffrey Gunter, Trump's former ambassador to Iceland.
The uncertainty of Trump's potential endorsement looms over the race, with former state Assemblyman Jim Marchant, known for promoting debunked election fraud theories, also in the running for the nomination. Florida Rep. Matt Gaetz has shown support for Gunter, while far-right activists like Laura Loomer and Roger Stone have criticized Brown on social media for his connections to more mainstream Republicans.
Despite door-knocking for Trump in 2020, Brown's wavering support for the former president has raised concerns among his critics. On the other hand, Gunter has faced negative publicity, including reports of his past Democratic voter registration in California and a critical State Department inspector general report on his ambassadorship.
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell's attendance at a fundraiser for Brown last year indicates some mainstream Republican backing. Both candidates have reportedly received support from Trump's top campaign officials, fueling speculation about a potential endorsement from the former president.
