Nevada Lieutenant Governor Stavros Anthony is spearheading a bold initiative to elevate the state’s entertainment sector, spotlighting space tourism as the next frontier. With entrepreneur Elon Musk having extensive business ventures in Nevada, Anthony sees an opportunity to capitalize on Musk’s expertise to establish space tourism in the Silver State.
Anthony’s career is marked by diversity and achievement, including nearly 30 years in law enforcement, a role as a regent in Nevada’s higher education system, and service on the Las Vegas City Council. His political journey included a campaign for Las Vegas mayor, and since 2022, he has served alongside Governor Joe Lombardo in leading Nevada. Their joint ticket marked a significant political victory, as they were the sole Republican team to triumph over incumbent Democratic leaders in the nation’s gubernatorial race.
During a recent conversation with Fox News Digital at FreedomFest in Las Vegas, Anthony discussed his career, the state’s economic landscape, and the anticipated electoral competition of 2026, which is expected to be fiercely contested.
Nevada Lieutenant Gov. Stavros Anthony addresses attendees during the U.S. Capitol Christmas Tree lighting ceremony on Dec. 2, 2025, in Washington, D.C. (Photo: Andrew Harnik/Getty Images)
Anthony advocates for Nevada as a hub for entertainment innovation, emphasizing the advantages of a light regulatory approach and vibrant entrepreneurial climate. He is particularly enthusiastic about Nevada’s burgeoning space tourism potential.
Reflecting on Nevada’s transformation over the past decade, Anthony noted, “Ten years ago, Nevada did not host major sporting events due to fears of illegal gambling and corruption. Today, the state boasts an array of professional sports, including hockey, football, basketball, NASCAR, F1 racing, and more. Las Vegas has become a global sports focal point.”
Anthony views space tourism as a promising venture due to Nevada’s available open land, suitable for launching rockets into space. He imagines Elon Musk as a key figure in making space travel not only a possibility but an adventurous experience. “Seeing Earth from above while enjoying a unique adventure could be a tourist attraction,” Anthony remarked.
Elon Musk speaks at the Viva Technology event focused on innovation and startups, held in Paris on June 16, 2023. (Photo: Chesnot/Getty Images)
Anthony attributes his effective problem-solving skills to his extensive police work with Las Vegas Metro Police. He stated, “While policing involves pursuits and arrests, 90% of the work is problem-solving within neighborhoods to improve community life. This approach translates well into political service, emphasizing policies that enhance citizens’ lives without burdens, such as high taxes and excessive regulations.”
Nevada Governor Joe Lombardo celebrates Bruno Mars’ impact on Las Vegas with a parade on April 10, 2026, in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo: Ethan Miller/Getty Images for MGM Resorts)
The endorsement from former President Trump further boosts Anthony and Lombardo’s visibility. Trump’s recent visit to Nevada, highlighting the no tax on tips policy, underscores his support for the ticket.
Anthony values his relationship with Trump, sharing, “President Trump has endorsed our campaign, and his visits to Nevada draw large crowds. We maintain a productive relationship, welcoming his insights on national policies that favorably impact Nevada.”
President Donald Trump discusses the economy at the Circa Resort and Casino in Las Vegas, Jan. 25, 2025. (Photo: Mark Schiefelbein/AP)
Anthony’s political philosophy is deeply influenced by his immigrant parents from Cyprus, who instilled values of hard work and self-reliance, avoiding dependency on government support. He emphasizes, “The government is there to protect and provide basic infrastructure, not to offer welfare and unemployment services. My role is to support Nevadans, encouraging self-reliance while aiding those seeking help.”
Report by David Unsworth on Latin America. Follow David Unsworth on Twitter @LatinAmerUpdate.