Catherine Cortez Masto

Catherine Cortez Masto assumed the office of Nevada Attorney General on January 1, 2007, becoming the first Latina woman to hold this position in the state's history. Serving two terms until January 2015, Cortez Masto focused on protecting Nevada's seniors, women, and children through various initiatives and legal reforms. She was involved in efforts to combat human trafficking, strengthen consumer protection laws, and improve mental health services. Her tenure as Attorney General was marked by significant legal achievements and partnerships that advanced public safety and justice within Nevada. Her leadership in this role laid the groundwork for her subsequent political career and her successful bid for the U.S. Senate.

On May 7, 2009, as Nevada Attorney General, Catherine Cortez Masto played a crucial role in signing onto a joint multi-state investigation into abusive marketing practices by major pharmaceutical companies. The investigation aimed to hold these corporations accountable for unlawful marketing techniques that promoted the overprescription of certain medications, contributing to widespread misuse and addiction. In particular, the investigation targeted practices that included misleading advertising and failure to disclose risks associated with pharmaceutical products. This collaborative legal effort was part of a broader strategy to address the opioid crisis and ensure responsible marketing practices across the pharmaceutical industry.

With the support of Attorney General Catherine Cortez Masto, Nevada passed landmark legislation on June 30, 2010, aimed at combating human trafficking and providing greater protection for victims. The new laws increased penalties for traffickers and offered more robust support services for survivors. This legislative achievement was part of a broader initiative led by Cortez Masto during her tenure as Attorney General to address and reduce human trafficking through legal reforms, public awareness campaigns, and collaboration with law enforcement. Cortez Masto's advocacy in this area helped establish Nevada as a leader in anti-trafficking efforts and demonstrated her commitment to protecting vulnerable populations and improving public safety.

In a significant legal action on February 12, 2011, Nevada Attorney General Catherine Cortez Masto sued several major banks, including Bank of America, over allegations of foreclosure fraud and deceptive mortgage practices. The lawsuit accused the banks of misleading homeowners through improper foreclosure practices, such as robo-signing documents and failing to offer appropriate paths for loan modification. This action was part of broader efforts by state attorneys general to address the fallout from the housing crisis and hold financial institutions accountable for their role in the economic downturn. The case highlighted Cortez Masto's commitment to consumer protection and her willingness to take on powerful interests to seek justice for Nevada residents adversely affected by the foreclosure crisis.

On August 7, 2013, as Nevada Attorney General, Catherine Cortez Masto announced a substantial $550 million settlement with banks over improper mortgage and foreclosure practices stemming from the housing crisis. This settlement was part of a national effort that addressed widespread foreclosure abuses and provided financial relief to many homeowners in Nevada and across the United States. The settlement funds were used to assist struggling homeowners with loan modifications, principal reductions, and other forms of financial relief. This landmark settlement, one of the largest of its kind at the time, demonstrated Cortez Masto's leadership and effectiveness in securing restitution and justice for citizens impacted by the economic downturn.

On April 12, 2015, Catherine Cortez Masto announced her candidacy for the U.S. Senate to succeed retiring Democratic Senator Harry Reid. With a strong record as Nevada's Attorney General, she launched her campaign focusing on issues such as healthcare, job creation, and education. Cortez Masto entered the race with endorsements from prominent Democrats, including Harry Reid himself, which helped solidify her status as a leading candidate. Her announcement signaled a strong commitment to continuing the Democratic legacy in Nevada while also breaking new ground as a potential first Latina senator in U.S. history. The campaign faced significant challenges, but Masto's dedication to public service and her extensive experience in law and government resonated with many voters in Nevada.

On November 8, 2016, Catherine Cortez Masto was elected to the United States Senate, making history as the first Latina senator in American history. Running as a Democrat to succeed retiring Senator Harry Reid, Cortez Masto defeated Republican candidate Joe Heck in a closely watched race that was pivotal for maintaining Democratic control in Nevada. Her win was celebrated as a landmark achievement for Latino representation in government, and she campaigned on issues such as immigration reform, women's rights, and renewable energy. Cortez Masto's victory was also significant as it highlighted the growing political influence of minority communities in the United States, and her success was seen as a continuation of Reid's progressive legacy in the Senate.

Catherine Cortez Masto was sworn in as a U.S. Senator from Nevada on January 3, 2017, becoming the first woman from Nevada and the first Latina ever elected to the United States Senate. She succeeded Harry Reid, a prominent figure in the Senate and left a significant mark on the political landscape of the country. Her election represented a historic achievement for diversity and women in politics. With a strong background as the former Attorney General for the state of Nevada, Cortez Masto brought her experience in law and public service to the Senate, where she focused on issues such as healthcare, immigration, and energy. Her tenure began during a time of significant political transition in the United States, marking her first steps in shaping her legislative priorities and addressing the needs of her constituents.

On December 12, 2018, Senator Catherine Cortez Masto was elected as the Chair of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC), becoming the first Latina to hold this influential position. As chair, she was responsible for coordinating campaign strategy and supporting Democratic candidates running for Senate seats across the country. Her leadership role in the DSCC was significant as it came during a pivotal time in U.S. politics, with many closely contested races that could determine the balance of power in the Senate. Cortez Masto's election was seen as a testament to her political acumen and her ability to galvanize support for the Democratic agenda, particularly in attracting diverse candidates and voters.

On November 12, 2022, Catherine Cortez Masto was declared the winner in her bid for reelection to the U.S. Senate, defeating Republican challenger Adam Laxalt in a closely contested race. Her victory played a crucial role in ensuring the Democratic Party retained control of the Senate. Cortez Masto campaigned on a platform that emphasized her record on healthcare, immigration, and economic issues. Her reelection was seen as a validation of her leadership and her ability to address the concerns of Nevadans effectively. The race was marked by significant campaign spending and national attention, reflecting its importance in the overall balance of power in Congress.