In Nevada’s northern 2nd Congressional District, former state legislator James Settelmeyer secured the Republican nomination after a low‑turnout primary, while Derek Flippo captured 45.9% of the vote to advance to the general election against Democrat Teresa Benitez‑Thompson. The race follows the February retirement of seven‑term GOP incumbent and has drawn endorsements from both the state establishment and former President Donald Trump.

Flippo Leads Primary with 45.9% Vote

Derek Flippo emerged as the front‑runner in the June primary, tallying 45.9% of ballots cast, according to the official results released early Thursday. The margin, though short of an outright majority, was enough to place him on the November ballot as the Republican standard‑bearer.

Flippo’s campaign has emphasized a “No Tax on Tips” proposal,a policy that President Trump highlighted in his May endorsement, noting its appeal to Nevada’s hospitality and gaming sectors.

Settelmeyer Backed by Amodei and Lombardo

Former state senator James Settelmeyer earned the backing of Nevada’s Republican establishment, including former congressman and moderate Republican Adam Amodei, who endorsed him shortly after the incumbent’s surprise retirement announcement.. Governor Joe Lombardo also praised Settelmeyer, recalling his role as co‑chair of Trump’s 2020 Nevada campaign.

Amodei, who has criticized Flippo’s recent switch from the 4th to the 2nd District, warned that the district “for the first time in its history isn’t a Republican guarantee,” underscoring intra‑party tensions.

Cook Political Report Calls Race ‘Solid Republican’

The Cook Political Report has rated the general election contest as “Solid Republican,” reflecting the district’s eight‑cycle history of conservative voting. However, Amodei’s comment suggests that demographic shifts and candidate dynamics could make the race more competitive than past cycles.

Analysts note that the district’s electorate, concentrated north of Indian Springs, has traditionally prioritized “conservative values and an absolute laser focus on community issues,” a sentiment echoed by Amodei in March.

Trump Highlights Flippo's ‘No Tax on Tips’ Pitch

President Trump’s endorsement tracker lists Flippo as a favored candidate, with Trump specifically praising Flippo’s support for eliminating taxes on restaurant tips. the policy resonates with Nevada’s large service‑industry workforce, which could prove decisive in a general election.

Flippo’s alignment with Trump’s agenda may energize the district’s base, but it also raises questions about how moderate voters will respond in a November that could see higher turnout.

Who Will Flippo Face in November?

Democrat Teresa Benitez‑Thompson, a former state House majority leader, has secured the Democratic nomination and will challenge Flippo in the general election. The contest will test whether the district’s historic Republican lean can withstand a well‑organized Democratic campaign focused on healthcare and education.

Uncertainties remain about voter turnout, the impact of Trump’s endorsement on swing voters, and whether Settelmeyer’s support from the party establishment will translate into broader electoral strength for Flippo.