State senator takes reins of Nevada’s Republican Party

The Nevada Republican Party elected state Sen. Mark Amodei as its new chairman on Saturday night.

As head of the party, the Carson City Republican will take over in an election year with the party split by conservative factions such as the Tea Party movement. And the party has been having a tough time raising money to help candidates.

Amodei, who was term-limited this year, had dropped out of the U.S. Senate race after his campaign stalled in the crowded field of a dozen contenders vying to take on Democratic incumbent Sen. Harry Reid in the fall general election.

So Amodei was looking for a way to stay involved in politics.

"This has been a very humbling experience," Amodei said in a statement. "I appreciate the support from around the state and am looking forward to gathering a great staff, great county organizations and great Nevadans so our voices can make a difference in November."

Ciara Matthews, communications director for the Nevada Republican Party, praised Amodei for his "proven record of leadership in the Nevada Legislature."

Amodei was elected during a central committee meeting in Reno by a 218-54 vote, according to the Nevada News Bureau.

Amodei replaces Chris Comfort, who recently resigned, citing family reasons. His departure followed a tumultuous time leading the party for half a year. Comfort took over after Sue Lowden quit as chairwoman to seek the GOP nomination for the U.S. Senate.