Paul Dominique Laxalt (August 2, 1922 – August 6, 2018) was an American Republican politician who held statewide office in the United States. Over a career that spanned state and national roles, Laxalt was a prominent figure in Nevada politics and a notable participant in national Republican campaigns.
Political career
Laxalt served as Governor of Nevada and later represented the state in the United States Senate. His tenure in both offices made him one of Nevada's leading 20th-century politicians. He also sought the Republican presidential nomination for the 1988 election cycle but did not secure the party's nomination, which went to George H. W. Bush.
Offices held
Early life and background
Laxalt was born in Reno, Nevada, on August 2, 1922. He entered public life in Nevada and rose through state politics before becoming governor and later a U.S. senator.
Family and later years
Members of Laxalt's family have continued to be active in politics; his grandson, Adam Laxalt, was the Republican nominee for Governor of Nevada in 2018. Paul Laxalt spent his final years in the Washington, D.C. area and died on August 6, 2018, at a health care facility in McLean, Virginia from complications following a fall. He was 96 years old.