KRNV-TV NBC News 4
A former journalist and spokesman for the Nevada governor announced Tuesday that he is planning a bid for the Nevada State Senate.
Ben Kieckhefer said he will run as a Republican candidate representing Washoe District 4 in the 2010 election cycle.
The south Reno resident said the retirement of termed out Sen. Randolph Townsend, R-Reno, presents a "unique opportunity he could not pass up."
"Nevada is facing many challenges that need the attention of people committed to meeting those challenges head on, and I look forward to convincing the voters of my district that I am the right candidate to do just that," Kieckhefer said.
He is a former communications director for Governor Jim Gibbons and currently serves as the Public Information Office with the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services, a position he said he will resign from if elected, to avoid any concerns of conflict of interests.
Kieckhefer also worked as a reporter for the Reno Gazette-Journal, Associated Press and City News. He also spent two years working in public relations and government affairs for an agency in Reno.
Kieckhefer says he has the support, encouragement and advice of many northern Nevada leaders, including; Sen. Townsend, Sen. Bill Raggio, R-Reno, Sen. Mark Amodei, R-Carson City, Assemblywoman Heidi Gansert, R-Reno, Reno Mayor Bob Cashell, Sparks Mayor Gino Martini, Carson City Mayor Bob Crowell and Reno City Councilwoman Sharon Zadra.
Kieckhefer says he plans a formal campaign kickoff on July 22 at the Tamarack Junction in south Reno. He says many of his supporters will serve as hosts.
"I am overwhelmed by the level of support I am receiving in my bid for the state Senate," Kieckhefer said. "It's humbling to have the faith of such longstanding leaders, but I particularly look forward to knocking on doors throughout the district and talking to the voters who will ultimately decide this election. It's their concerns that are paramount."
Washoe District 4 covers much of southern Washoe County, including south Reno and Washoe Valley. It also includes residential areas along the Mount Rose Highway and Incline Village. In addition, the district includes a portion of the north end of Carson City east of Carson Street.
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