Two Elephants, One Mayor’s Chair

Republican races are all red, white, and blue.

Republicans in Washoe County have a problem they can’t just wave away with a slate card: two of their own are charging into the 2026 Reno mayor’s race.

On one side, you’ve got Reno Councilmember Kathleen Taylor — the same Taylor who just last year leaned heavily on Republican circles to squeak out her city council victory. Chair Bruce Parks and the Washoe County GOP rolled out the welcome mat for Taylor, putting her front and center at Republican events, think Parties in the Park. Some argue that support was the difference in her slim-margin win.

On the other side, here comes businessman Eddie Lorton, GOP brand ambassador, announcing today that he’s saddling up for the mayoral run. Lorton has never been shy about wearing the Republican badge proudly — and loudly.

Now the awkward question: what will the party do? Yes, it’s technically a nonpartisan race. But let’s be real — voters look at slate cards, endorsements, and who’s shaking hands at the barbecue.

Does the GOP split loyalties between the councilmember they helped put in office and the businessman who’s been waving their flag for years? Does Bruce Parks pick a favorite? And if so, what happens when the other elephant doesn’t forget?

The “unity” party line is going to be tough to sell if Reno Republicans can’t even decide whose name belongs on the park banners.

The Reno Mayor 2026 race may be a nonpartisan on paper, but behind the scenes it looks like the Republicans are about to hold a possible very partisan tug-of-war.