A quiet force is building in Nevada, and her name is Carrie Buck. The former school principal and current state senator is challenging long-time incumbent Dina Titus for Nevada’s 1st Congressional District, a seat Republicans have aggressively targeted for a takeover.
The political landscape in the district is shifting, and Buck believes she embodies the change voters are craving. She describes a palpable energy, a growing dissatisfaction with Titus’s decades in office, and a hunger for someone who will deliver tangible results for Nevadans.
Buck’s campaign isn’t fueled by wealthy donors or political machines; it’s powered by a remarkable surge of grassroots support. She’s the only Republican challenger to outraise a Democratic incumbent without personally funding her campaign, collecting $497,929.59 from over 7,800 individual donors, averaging a modest $59 per contribution.
She readily admits to a life far removed from the Washington elite. “I still drive a minivan, that’s my campaign van,” she shared with a laugh, emphasizing her commitment to representing the everyday concerns of her community.
Buck doesn’t shy away from direct criticism of her opponent, accusing Titus of consistently voting against the interests of Nevadans, citing recent votes on policies aimed at supporting workers and families.
Before entering politics, Buck faced a daunting challenge as principal of a struggling elementary school in Henderson. Faced with dismal reading and math scores – hovering around 35% – she implemented changes that sparked a remarkable turnaround, boosting proficiency rates to 83% and 90% respectively.
Her success in transforming the school earned her the prestigious Milken Educator Award, often called the “Oscars for education,” a testament to her dedication and leadership. This experience, she believes, prepared her to tackle the complex issues facing Nevada.
Buck has already demonstrated an ability to flip seats in Nevada. She won her state Senate seat in 2020 with a five-percentage point swing, and then widened her margin of victory in 2024, despite the district’s previous Democratic leanings.
The core of Buck’s message revolves around practical, “kitchen table” issues. She speaks of a need for honesty and accountability, accusing opponents of misrepresenting the realities facing everyday Americans, particularly regarding the border and the cost of living.
She believes voters are intelligent and can see through empty promises, and she’s determined to offer a clear, truthful alternative. Buck is presenting herself not as a politician, but as a voice for the people, ready to fight for their needs in Washington.
