Former Speaker Yeager advises new lawmakers

Steve Yeager, the former speaker of the Nevada Assembly, has advised incoming legislators to prioritize questioning and relationship building during their first sessions. Yeager spoke in an interview regarding his tenure, which concluded after ten years in Carson City.

The 63-member Legislature faces substantial turnover this year. A total of 12 new members are set to take their seats, representing nearly a third of the chamber. These newcomers replace colleagues who departed due to resignations, term limits, or successful bids for other offices. The state will lose 87 years of collective legislative experience this session.

Democrats secured five additional seats in the recent election cycle, leading to a significant shift in the chamber's composition. Nicole Cannizzaro, the former Senate Majority Leader, left the legislative body to serve as attorney general. New leadership will emerge in both chambers to guide the legislative process.

Edgar Flores, a Democrat from Clark County, is set to serve as the incoming state Senate majority leader. Flores has previously held positions in both the Assembly and the Senate. In the Assembly, Elaine Marzola, also a Democrat from Clark County, is expected to assume the role of speaker. Marzola was first elected in 2020 and has served as chair of the Commerce and Labor Committee. Governor-elect Aaron Ford, a former state senator, will lead the executive branch.

Yeager told the new members that the legislative process can appear complex and unpredictable. He emphasized the necessity of admitting when one does not know an answer. Yeager recommended that lawmakers meet with members, lobbyists, and staff to build professional relationships.

Regarding the challenges of the speaker role, Yeager warned Marzola to expect daily changes in plans. He described the position as unique and chaotic, noting that daily expectations rarely align with actual events. He advised new lawmakers to study the legislative process thoroughly, as passing bills requires substantial effort to secure the governor's signature.

Yeager identified staying off social media as a key piece of advice. He stated that digital platforms amplify the loudest voices rather than reflecting the general public sentiment. He warned that new members might misinterpret public opinion based on online activity. Effective communication among legislative chambers and the governor is essential to prevent misunderstandings.

Reflecting on his career, Yeager expressed pride in legislation that expanded voting opportunities, raised the minimum wage, and promoted outdoor recreation. He cited Nevada becoming the first state with a female-majority statehouse as a milestone. He noted disappointment over a vetoed bill that would have allowed nonpartisan voters to participate in closed primaries. Yeager said he is exploring options to work with legislative leaders in Nevada and other states.