Lombardo boosts money lead in sheriff’s race

If Larry Burns defeats Joe Lombardo in the race for Clark County sheriff, he’ll have to overcome Lombardo’s enormous fundraising advantage.

Lombardo raised $1.6 million to Burns’ $870,000, according to campaign financing numbers released this week. He also spent $1.4 million to Burns’ $684,000.

The numbers weren’t a surprise. Lombardo has been well ahead of his opponents in fundraising since the campaign began. Burns couldn’t keep up, even while spending $75,000 of his own money.

Much of Lombardo’s financial support came from the casino industry. That advantage — plus his endorsements from outgoing Sheriff Doug Gillespie and former Sheriff Bill Young — made him the heavy favorite over Burns.

Lombardo, 52, is an assistant sheriff at Metro. Burns, 56, retired as captain to run for sheriff.

Burns is popular with the rank-and-file officers and their union leaders, whereas Lombardo has more administrative experience.

Contact Mike Blasky at mblasky@reviewjournal.com. Find him on Twitter: @blasky.