The Humboldt County Chamber of Commerce held its Candidates Night on May 21 in the East Hall of the Winnemucca Convention Center, hosting local election candidates and the public.
In a different form than previous years, the night began with a meet and greet for candidates and voters and then allowed for a three-minute introduction by the candidates and a one-on-one question and answer forum as opposed to the questions which are regularly answered on stage by candidates.
The candidates were also only those that will be in the 2024 Primary Election on Tuesday, June 11, with early voting beginning May 25 and running through June 7 at the Convention Center.
In attendance were Humboldt County Commissioner Seat B candidates Paige Brooks and Crystal Newton; candidates for Union Township Justice of the Peace Jeff Dawson, Mike Mavity, and Cody Maltzman, and Representative In Congress, District 2 Dr. Fred Simon.
Commission candidate Paige Brooks, a multi-generation Winnemucca native, wife, mother, grandmother, small business owner, and former City Council member, said she plans to lead with fiscal responsibility and a strong understanding of the community.
“I hear you and I want to work for you,” said Brooks.
Candidate Crystal Newton, a Winnemucca transplant from Washington, explained her background in business and experiences gained through many years of travel.
She said she recognized that the community is conservative and wants to be involved in their local government. She said that it is important the people “earn their place in the community” and that her lack of deep ties to the community gives her the ability to make decisions without a biased viewpoint.
“A lot of times people just trust their government to make decisions for them and you guys say no, we'll make the decision,” said Newton.
Justice of the Peace Candidate Mike Mavity, a Winnemucca resident of 20 years and husband and father, said that he plans to bring respect to the position if elected, and focus on the court calendar in order to hold trials in a more timley manner.
Mavity also said he plans to continue to work with other officials to address Humboldt County’s disparity of public defenders.
“[The position] requires integrity and a connection to this community. I spent years getting to know our residents, having conversations about the concerns and challenges we see here. I will bring patience, courtesy and respect to this position and will carefully hear the information and recommendations presented to me in court,” said Mavity.
Candidate Cody Maltzman, a Paradise Valley resident since 2013 and small farm owner, said that although the position is bipartisan, she is a grassroots republican, working as a hairdresser and in real estate for many years.
“The Constitution allows for all people the opportunity to run for public office. I have a moral obligation based on what I believe to know and where we are headed. In fact, according to the Constitution, I would be derelict in my duty if I did not run for this position,” said Matlzman.
Candidate Jeff Dawson, a Winnemucca resident and former law enforcement officer, explained that his background in law and experiences going to court throughout his career, as well as understanding of introducing appropriate charges solidifies his understanding of the court systems and backs his candidacy.
“We have to get back what’s right—protecting the citizens of Humboldt County. Our moral compasses are spinning. Our laws have come under fire, including our constitutional rights. This is a time for action,” said Dawson.
Candidate for Representative In Congress, District 2 Dr. Fred Simon, a Gardnerville resident, physician of 40 years and small business owner, explained his stance on closing the borders, government spending and being a conservative.
“There's no will, no energy and most of your politicians are bought and sold…I am willing to go to Washington, and I'm willing to represent us and that's why I'm here and this is a great district, city to, and can be the best district in the United States. And we can all do this together,” said Simon.
On election day, voting centers will be set up in the West Hall of the Winnemucca Convention Center, the Fort McDermitt Tribal Administration Building, the Orovada Community Center, and the Paradise Valley Sports Center. Humboldt County voters may vote at any polling place on Election Day, regardless of where they live in Humboldt County.
Additionally, Nevada has closed Primary Elections, meaning voters can only vote on their registered party ballot. Those registered to the Democratic Party will receive Democratic candidates and Non-Partisan candidates. Those registered as Non-Partisan or to Minor Political Parties will receive only Non-Partisan Candidates. Those registered to the Republican Party will receive only Republican Candidates and Non-Partisan Candidates.
Some candidates who filed for office will move directly to the General Election depending on the office, the number of candidates who filed, or associated political party as well.