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How the Assembly Republicans "elected" a speaker
Assembly Republicans named a speaker Tuesday evening, but there was no election. Here’s what happened, according to several sources:
Hambrick seeking speakership
In an effort to head off Paul Anderson for speaker, forces inside and outside the Assembly Republican Caucus have recruited John Hambrick to seek the job tonight. Hambrick confirmed he will seek the job, which was vacated by Ira Hansen after his slew of racist, misogynistic and homophobic columns surfaced. Wes Duncan then seemed to have the votes before opting out for a job with Attorney General-elect Adam Laxalt.
MY COLUMN: What Nevada pols (and others) gave thanks for on Thursday
So what did prominent elected officials and others give thanks for on Thursday? I happen to know: Gov. Brian Sandoval: For the Nevada Democrats. For a Goodman being hard to find. For the red wave (but did it have to be SO big?). Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid: For Brian Sandoval and Joe Heck loving where they are. For the Assembly Republican Caucus. For making it to 75 on Tuesday – a k a for his eighth life (or is it his ninth?).
Hansen: I'm still the boss!
In a series of emails sent last night to his caucus, Non-Speaker-Designate Ira Hansen instructed his colleagues that he is still in charge, that committee assignments will remain in effect and that his replacement as speaker will have to hire the chief of staff he hired and the policy person he wanted. Oh, this is going to be some session, folks.
Fiore to caucus: We are going to make history!
UPDATED, 7 AM, 11/24/14: A rare glimpse into who lawmakers, at least this one, think are potential donors -- you know the same people who then lobby them. Below this piece I have posted the donor list Michele Fiore sent to all her members to call for money to retire their debts. -----
MY COLUMN: The end of the Ira Era was inevitable
“I thought Ira was great. I have hope.”
Hansen: "I need to step down"
UPDATE: Here's Hansen's somewhat unrepentant statement.
Hansen: I'm a victim of "character assassination"
Yeah, that's it: Ira Hansen is being bullied and his character impugned by, you know, anyone who has read his horrific columns, terrible letter about gays and words during the session.