Hardy touts conservative ideals to Nevada legislators

CARSON CITY — Freshman U.S. Rep. Cresent Hardy brought his ideals of small government and fiscal restraint to the Nevada Legislature on Wednesday, telling lawmakers that he will work in Congress to limit federal regulation on business and industry.

“The federal government always wants to take a little more from you as you go through life and have success,” Hardy told a joint session of the Senate and Assembly. “That shouldn’t happen.”

A two-term Republican assemblyman from Mesquite, Hardy was elected to Nevada’s 4th Congressional District seat in November, unseating then Democratic Rep. Steven Horsford.

Hardy garnered applause when he said he is supporting legislation in Congress to restrict the federal government from acquiring land unless the federal budget is balanced.

“I think it’s important the government learn to live within its means,” he said.

Hardy also said that while he opposes Yucca Mountain if it means “shoving it down our throats,” he also believes more discussion is needed on whether Yucca Mountain is suitable to house the nation’s nuclear waste.

He also praised plans for the Interstate 11 freeway connecting Las Vegas and Phoenix, saying it will be a boon for Nevada’s economy.

“People are now looking at the state of Nevada as a real place to be,” he said.

Contact Sandra Chereb at schereb@reviewjournal.com or 775-687-3901. Find her on Twitter: @SandraChereb.