Ken Gray (Nevada)
Ken Gray (Republican Party) is a member of the Nevada State Assembly, representing District 39. He assumed office on November 9, 2022. His current term ends on November 4, 2026.
Gray (Republican Party) ran for re-election to the Nevada State Assembly to represent District 39. He won in the general election on November 5, 2024.
Gray completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. Click here to read the survey answers.
Biography
Ken Gray was born in Long Beach, California. Gray served in the U.S. Air Force from 1987 to 2013 and reached the rank of master sergeant. He graduated from Cerritos High School. He attended Chapman University, earned associate degrees in health care management and allied health science from the Community College of the Air Force, and a bachelor's degree from Excelsior College. Gray's career experience includes working as the director of the Carson Water Subconservancy District, a research compliance officer with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, and the president of Project Compassion Inc.[1][2][3]
Sponsored legislation
The following table lists bills this person sponsored as a legislator, according to BillTrack50 and sorted by action history. Bills are sorted by the date of their last action. The following list may not be comprehensive. To see all bills this legislator sponsored, click on the legislator's name in the title of the table.
Committee assignments
Note: This membership information was last updated in September 2023. Ballotpedia completes biannual updates of committee membership. If you would like to send us an update, email us at: editor@ballotpedia.org.
2023-2024
Gray was assigned to the following committees:
Elections
2024
See also: Nevada State Assembly elections, 2024
General election
General election for Nevada State Assembly District 39
Incumbent Ken Gray defeated Erich Obermayr in the general election for Nevada State Assembly District 39 on November 5, 2024.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ |  | Ken Gray (R)  | 71.5 | 33,461 |
 | Erich Obermayr (D) | 28.5 | 13,347 | |
| Total votes: 46,808 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
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Democratic primary election
The Democratic primary election was canceled. Erich Obermayr advanced from the Democratic primary for Nevada State Assembly District 39.
Republican primary election
The Republican primary election was canceled. Incumbent Ken Gray advanced from the Republican primary for Nevada State Assembly District 39.
Campaign finance
Endorsements
Ballotpedia did not identify endorsements for Gray in this election.
2022
See also: Nevada State Assembly elections, 2022
General election
General election for Nevada State Assembly District 39
Ken Gray defeated Janice Noble in the general election for Nevada State Assembly District 39 on November 8, 2022.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Ken Gray (R) | 70.2 | 26,574 |
| Janice Noble (D) | 29.8 | 11,299 | ||
| Total votes: 37,873 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
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Withdrawn or disqualified candidates
- Charles Holt (Independent)
Democratic primary election
The Democratic primary election was canceled. Janice Noble advanced from the Democratic primary for Nevada State Assembly District 39.
Republican primary election
Republican primary for Nevada State Assembly District 39
Ken Gray defeated Blayne Osborn in the Republican primary for Nevada State Assembly District 39 on June 14, 2022.
Candidate | % | Votes | ||
| ✔ | | Ken Gray | 52.1 | 7,841 |
| Blayne Osborn | 47.9 | 7,204 | ||
| Total votes: 15,045 | |||
| = candidate completed the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection survey. | ||||
| If you are a candidate and would like to tell readers and voters more about why they should vote for you, complete the Ballotpedia Candidate Connection Survey. | ||||
Do you want a spreadsheet of this type of data? Contact our sales team. | ||||
Campaign themes
2024
Ballotpedia survey responses
See also: Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection
Ken Gray completed Ballotpedia's Candidate Connection survey in 2024. The survey questions appear in bold and are followed by Gray's responses. Candidates are asked three required questions for this survey, but they may answer additional optional questions as well.
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Ken has been very active in the community and state since retiring from the Air Force. He has served member of the Nevada Judicial Ethics and Elections Practices Committee, Director on the Carson Water Sub-conservancy District, Commissioner on the Comstock Historic District Commission, Director on the Dayton Valley Conservation District, member of the State Intergovernmental Executive Committee, and as a member of the Nevada Local Justice Reinvestment Coordinating Council. Additionally, during his six-year tenure as a Lyon County Commissioner, he served as the Lyon County representative to the Nevada Association of Counties Public Lands and Natural Resources Committee, and on the Legislative Committee.
Ken has a proven record as a tireless advocate for conservative America First ideals.- As a committed Conservative Republican, I staunchly advocate for small government, low taxes, and robust support for business growth. My political philosophy is rooted in the belief that minimal governmental intervention and fiscal responsibility create the most conducive environment for economic prosperity and individual freedom. I am dedicated to advancing policies that encourage entrepreneurial initiatives and reduce regulatory burdens, thereby fostering a thriving business landscape and ensuring that our community remains a place where businesses can flourish and contribute to overall economic health.
- My second campaign message is clear and straightforward: I am firmly pro-life. I stand unapologetically in support of life at every stage except in the most extreme and dire circumstances, and I am committed to upholding and advocating for policies that protect the sanctity of life. This core belief guides my approach to legislation and defines my stance on relevant issues, reflecting my dedication to life-affirming principles.
- I wholeheartedly believe in and steadfastly support the U.S. Constitution, including the Bill of Rights. These foundational documents are essential to safeguarding our freedoms and establishing the principles upon which our nation was built. My commitment to upholding the Constitution reflects my dedication to preserving these rights for every American and ensuring that our government continues to operate within its established legal framework. My guiding principle for my legislative beliefs is, "The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitution, nor prohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States respectively, or to the people."
1. **Trust**: These qualities help build trust between officials and the public. When officials are honest and act with integrity, citizens are more likely to trust that decisions are made in the public's best interest rather than for personal gain.
2. **Accountability**: Integrity involves adhering to a set of moral or ethical principles. Elected officials who display integrity are more likely to be accountable for their actions, transparent about their decisions, and responsible in their duties.
3. **Effective Governance**: Honest officials are more likely to provide accurate information to the public and other decision-makers, which is essential for effective policy making and governance. Misinformation or dishonesty can lead to poor decisions and policy outcomes.
4. **Public Confidence**: Integrity and honesty in actions and communication can significantly enhance public confidence in the government. This confidence is essential for social stability and for encouraging public engagement in democratic processes.
5. **Prevention of Corruption**: These qualities are critical in preventing corruption, which can undermine the effectiveness of government institutions, decrease economic growth, and erode the quality of life.
1. **Legislation**: The primary duty is to propose, debate, and vote on laws relevant to the state. This includes everything from budgets and taxes to regulations affecting health, education, and public safety.
2. **Representation**: Assembly members represent the interests and concerns of their constituents. They need to stay informed about the needs and opinions of the people in their district and advocate on their behalf.
3. **Oversight**: They are responsible for overseeing state agencies and programs to ensure they are operating effectively and within the law. This includes reviewing the performance of these agencies and ensuring that they implement laws as intended.
4. **Budgeting**: Assembly members play a critical role in creating and approving the state budget, which involves determining how state revenues should be spent to best serve the public.
5. **Constituent Services**: They assist constituents in navigating state services and address their concerns related to state government. This can involve everything from helping with unemployment benefits to resolving issues with state agencies.
6. **Informing Public Policy**: Members are expected to stay informed on both local and broader issues that could impact their constituents and the state at large. This knowledge helps in shaping effective and relevant policies.
I consider my ability to manage these addiction issues within my family a personal success. This is evident in the fact that neither my wife, my children, nor I have personally had to confront addiction. I am deeply thankful for this outcome and attribute it to our strong family support system and proactive strategies in understanding and preemptively addressing potential addiction issues. This journey has enriched my understanding of the crucial roles that stability and a supportive environment play in preventing addiction and promoting overall family well-being.
Effective communication and mutual respect are key in this dynamic. The governor should be open to legislative input, acknowledging that assembly members are close to the grassroots and often have firsthand understanding of the public's needs. Conversely, the assembly should respect the governor's role in setting the state's strategic direction and managing its execution.
Firstly, the diversification of Nevada's economy remains a paramount issue. Traditionally reliant on gaming and tourism, Nevada has made strides in attracting industries such as technology and renewable energy. Continuing this expansion into new economic sectors is crucial for creating job opportunities, increasing state revenues, and reducing economic vulnerability to fluctuations in tourism and gaming.
Secondly, energy and water issues are of significant concern, particularly given Nevada's arid climate and rapid growth. Energy policies will be vital for meeting the state's power needs while minimizing financial impact. This includes expanding other renewable energy sources like geothermal, which is abundant in Nevada, and improving energy efficiency across all sectors. Equally important is addressing the state's water scarcity challenges through enhanced water management strategies, conservation efforts, reclamation efforts and other potential supply sources.
Finally, managing population growth is another critical challenge. Nevada's population has been growing rapidly, leading to increased demand on infrastructure, public services, and housing. Strategic urban planning within urban areas is essential to accommodate growth without sacrificing quality of life or impacting Nevada’s rural and agricultural areas. This includes investing in transportation, improving access to and quality of healthcare, and improving education.
Individuals with prior government or political experience are likely to have developed a network of contacts that can be instrumental in facilitating the progress of legislation and policy initiatives. These relationships enable them to collaborate more efficiently with fellow lawmakers, bureaucrats, and stakeholders, enhancing their ability to advocate for their constituents' needs and interests.
Moreover, experienced individuals often have a deeper insight into the bureaucratic challenges and regulatory frameworks that govern public projects and initiatives. This knowledge allows them to anticipate potential roadblocks and effectively manage or circumvent them, thereby streamlining processes and achieving objectives more swiftly.
Furthermore, having a background in politics or government helps in understanding the balance and compromise required to achieve legislative success. Experienced officials are typically more adept at negotiating and finding common ground among diverse and often conflicting interests, which is essential for passing effective and equitable legislation.
1. Effective Legislation: Strong relationships facilitate collaboration and compromise, which are essential for crafting and passing effective legislation. Legislators who maintain good relationships are more likely to find common ground and support each other’s initiatives, leading to more productive legislative sessions.
2. Sharing of Information and Resources: Building networks with peers allows for the sharing of valuable information, insights, and resources. This can enhance a legislator’s understanding of issues, improve their legislative proposals, and increase their overall effectiveness.
3. Influence and Support: Relationships can be pivotal in garnering support for bills and projects. A legislator who is well-connected is more likely to influence others and rally the necessary votes to move legislation forward.
4. Conflict Resolution: Politics often involves navigating complex and sensitive issues. Strong interpersonal relationships can help in managing conflicts more effectively, allowing for smoother legislative processes.
5. Career Longevity and Growth: Positive relationships can contribute to a legislator’s reputation and longevity in office. Being known as someone who is cooperative and easy to work with can also open doors to leadership roles and other opportunities within the legislative body.
This committee should ensure a fair and balanced assessment of the necessity and scope of the emergency powers being exercised. The review process should include evaluating the reasons for the declaration of emergency, the measures taken under it, and the impact of these measures on the public and on civil liberties.
Instituting such checks and balances not only enhances transparency and accountability but also reinforces democratic governance by involving elected representatives in critical decision-making processes. Moreover, periodic legislative review helps adapt emergency responses to evolving situations, ensuring they remain justified and proportionate to the threat faced.
The necessity for transparency and accountability extends from the smallest municipal budgets to the largest federal expenditures, with the only exception being matters that genuinely pertain to national security. This exception is crucial to safeguard sensitive information that, if disclosed, could potentially jeopardize the safety and security of the nation. However, even in these cases, the rationale for secrecy must be well justified and regularly reviewed to prevent abuse of this exemption.
Note: Ballotpedia reserves the right to edit Candidate Connection survey responses. Any edits made by Ballotpedia will be clearly marked with [brackets] for the public. If the candidate disagrees with an edit, he or she may request the full removal of the survey response from Ballotpedia.org. Ballotpedia does not edit or correct typographical errors unless the candidate's campaign requests it.
2022
Ken Gray did not complete Ballotpedia's 2022 Candidate Connection survey.
Campaign finance summary
Note: The finance data shown here comes from the disclosures required of candidates and parties. Depending on the election or state, this may represent only a portion of all the funds spent on their behalf. Satellite spending groups may or may not have expended funds related to the candidate or politician on whose page you are reading this disclaimer. Campaign finance data from elections may be incomplete. For elections to federal offices, complete data can be found at the FEC website. Click here for more on federal campaign finance law and here for more on state campaign finance law.
Scorecards
A scorecard evaluates a legislator’s voting record. Its purpose is to inform voters about the legislator’s political positions. Because scorecards have varying purposes and methodologies, each report should be considered on its own merits. For example, an advocacy group’s scorecard may assess a legislator’s voting record on one issue while a state newspaper’s scorecard may evaluate the voting record in its entirety.
Ballotpedia is in the process of developing an encyclopedic list of published scorecards. Some states have a limited number of available scorecards or scorecards produced only by select groups. It is Ballotpedia’s goal to incorporate all available scorecards regardless of ideology or number.
Click here for an overview of legislative scorecards in all 50 states. To contribute to the list of Nevada scorecards, email suggestions to editor@ballotpedia.org.
2024
| To view all the scorecards we found for this legislator in 2024, click [show]. |
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In 2024, the Nevada State Legislature was not in session. |
2023
| To view all the scorecards we found for this legislator in 2023, click [show]. |
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In 2023, the Nevada State Legislature was in session from February 6 to June 5.
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See also
2024 Elections
External links
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Candidate Nevada State Assembly District 39 |
Officeholder Nevada State Assembly District 39 |
Personal |
Footnotes
- ↑ Nevada Legislature, "Assemblyman Ken Gray," accessed January 13, 2023
- ↑ LinkedIn, "Ken Gray," accessed January 13, 2023
- ↑ Information submitted to Ballotpedia through the Candidate Connection survey on May 19, 2024
| Political offices | ||
|---|---|---|
| Preceded by Jim Wheeler (R) |
Nevada State Assembly District 39 2022-Present |
Succeeded by - |
