R
eal estate and development groups donated a record $1.8 million to Nevada lawmakers in the 2024 election cycle, with a significant Republican lean. This marks the second consecutive cycle where the industry was the second-largest donor category behind gaming groups.

    The influx of money comes as housing costs continue to soar, and lawmakers are under pressure to address the issue. A legislative session is expected to feature several housing-related bills, including Gov. Joe Lombardo's proposal for a $250 million housing fund and measures to increase transparency in rental agreements.

    Despite Democrats holding 40 of the Legislature's 63 seats, they only received about 54% of industry dollars during the cycle. The median Republican legislator received significantly more from the industry ($27,375) than the median Democratic lawmaker ($15,500).

    The Nevada Association of Realtors was the largest donor in the real estate sector, contributing $288,000 to lawmakers with a majority going to Republicans. The group's president downplayed the Republican lean, stating that they prioritize supporting legislators who back property rights.

    Other notable donors included the Southern Nevada Home Builders Association and Howard Hughes Holdings, which gave $174,000 and $138,000 respectively. Many top recipients of industry donations were Democratic leaders or those with ties to the sector, including Assemblywoman Lisa Cole, a freshman Republican legislator who received over $110,000 from the industry.

    Legislators serving on commerce and labor committees also received significant amounts from the industry, as did some lawmakers who are real estate agents themselves. The industry's donations reflect their priorities, including opposing rent control measures and supporting efforts to free up federally owned land for housing development.