Steve Cortes, founder of the League of American Workers, said Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer’s pledge to reverse DOGE cuts if Democrats regain power in 2026 would increase federal spending and regulations affecting Nevada’s tourism, energy, mining, and small business sectors.
“Nevada knows this game because we have lived it,” said Cortes. “Washington elites promise relief while draining our economy tourism energy mining and small business with bloated rules and reckless spending. The 2026 election is Nevada’s line in the sand either we keep feeding the scam. Or we reclaim the foundational promise of work freedom and America First common sense.”
Cortes issued this statement following a DC Newsline article reporting that Schumer said Democrats would restore funding for programs reduced by DOGE if they gain control in the 2026 midterm elections. According to Cortes, the proposal is linked to economic pressures on Nevada’s key industries and frames the election as a choice between maintaining current spending limits and expanding federal programs.
Nevada’s economy relies heavily on tourism, mining, and energy. Federal regulations have increased costs through inflation, tariffs, and policy uncertainty affecting small businesses and rural areas. Visitor numbers have declined, impacting hospitality and retail sectors. Meanwhile, mining faces challenges from trade dynamics and energy shifts. Outdoor recreation contributes $13.7 billion to GDP and supports 75,000 jobs; however, broader federal burdens limit diversification and growth.
DOGE has achieved a nine percent reduction in federal employment—the largest peacetime cut on record—through hiring freezes, resignations, and terminations aimed at addressing inefficiencies. Despite overall spending rising to $7.8 trillion in 2025, reforms target procurement and regulations to promote long-term savings. These changes aim to reduce the deficit by eliminating wasteful programs amid rising national debt.
Cortes holds a degree in government studies from Georgetown University obtained in 1994. He worked as a financial strategist for 25 years before founding Veracruz TJM and serving as Chief Strategist at BGC Partners. He advised Trump’s 2016 and 2020 campaigns on Hispanic outreach and founded the League of American Workers in 2022 to promote pro-worker policies. Additionally, Cortes has authored books and appeared as a commentator on major networks.
