Catherine Cortez Masto, the first Latina elected to the U.S. Senate (2016), is known for advocacy on consumer protections, immigration reform, women’s rights, and support for Nevada’s diverse communities.
She has worked to expand affordable healthcare access, accelerate clean-energy jobs and climate resilience in Nevada, and strengthen anti-trafficking and cybersecurity efforts.
A pragmatic campaigner who’s prevailed in tight statewide races, Masto is a key figure in national Democratic politics with a reputation for constituent-focused work.
Moderate Democrat
Fiscal ConservativeFiscal Progressive
Social ConservativeSocial Liberal
EstablishmentPopulist
HawkishDovish
Achievements
- First Latina elected to the U.S. Senate
- Strengthened consumer protection enforcement
- Advanced Nevada renewable-energy and jobs initiatives
- Worked to expand access to affordable healthcare
- Led bipartisan efforts to combat human trafficking
Controversies
- Criticism over perceived closeness to party leadership
- Accused by some of being too moderate on enforcement issues
- Scrutiny of campaign funding sources
- Pushback from progressive activists on select votes
- Debate over positions involving public lands policy
Top Donors
| Donor | Total | Individuals | PACs |
|---|---|---|---|
| Emily's List | $536,883 | $526,883 | $10,000 |
| JStreetPAC | $241,976 | $241,976 | $0 |
| Google Inc | $113,368 | $104,368 | $9,000 |
| Microsoft Corp | $82,184 | $67,184 | $15,000 |
| MGM Resorts International | $63,733 | $53,733 | $10,000 |
Amounts shown reflect reported cycle totals; “Individuals” vs. “PACs” are as provided.
Recent Elections
2016 Margin +2.4%
2022 Margin +0.8%