Former Nevada Assembly Speaker Steve Yeager looks back on a decade of service in Carson City, offering guidance to the incoming wave of lawmakers who will make up nearly a third of the 63‑member Legislature this year.
Why Yeager stepped aside
After ten years in the state Capitol, including two terms as speaker, Yeager decided not to seek a sixth term, saying it was time to pursue other pursuits. He noted that the 2024 election proved to be a strong year for Democrats, flipping five Assembly seats and bringing 12 new members to the chamber.
Advice for the new generation
“No. 1, ask a lot of questions. It’s never wrong to admit that you don’t know the answer or you don’t know the issue,” Yeager told Channel 13. He urged new legislators to build relationships with colleagues, lobbyists and staff, emphasizing that personal connections help navigate the often‑complex legislative process.
Yeager also warned newcomers to expect “chaos and unpredictability” as speaker, noting that daily plans often change due to unforeseen events. He stressed the importance of staying grounded and limiting social‑media use, describing the platforms as a megaphone for the loudest voices rather than a true reflection of public opinion.
Legislative turnover and new leadership
With 12‑year term limits and frequent resignations, Nevada’s Legislature experiences regular turnover. This year, the chamber will lose 87 years of combined experience, including Senate Majority Leader Nicole Cannizzaro, who is running for attorney general.
Incoming leaders include State Senate Majority Leader‑elect Edgar Flores (D‑Clark County), who has served in both chambers, and Assemblywoman Elaine Marzola (D‑Clark County), expected to become the next speaker. Marzola, first elected in 2020, brings three terms and experience chairing the Commerce and Labor Committee.
Key policy achievements Yeager cites
Yeager expressed pride in several bills he helped pass: expanding voting opportunities, raising the state minimum wage, and promoting outdoor recreation. He also highlighted Nevada’s milestone of achieving a female‑majority statehouse.
However, he voiced disappointment over a vetoed bill that would have allowed nonpartisan voters to choose participation in either the closed Republican or Democratic primaries. “Opening up our primaries to nonpartisans is the right thing to do,” he said, noting the veto by Governor Joe Lombardo.
Looking ahead
While stepping away from elected office, Yeager said he plans to stay connected with legislative leaders across Nevada and beyond, offering counsel and support. “You haven’t seen the last of me,” he affirmed.
For readers with questions about Nevada politics, Yeager can be reached at [email protected].
Original reporting: KTNV 13 Action News Las Vegas (local) — read the source article.
