Cardiologist primaries Lee, argues Trump era is ‘not the time’ for moderates – Image for illustrative purposes only (Image credits: Unsplash)
Las Vegas – U.S. Rep. Susie Lee has built her career on a centrist record since winning election in 2018. This year she faces an unexpected primary opponent in Dr. James Lally, a Las Vegas cardiologist who argues that approach no longer serves Democratic voters. Lally, a former Republican who switched parties after supporting the Affordable Care Act, says the current political climate demands a sharper break from establishment norms.
Lally’s Path to the Race
Lally moved to Nevada in 2008 and practiced cardiology in the Las Vegas area. He describes his campaign as an effort to represent the “bottom 99 percent” rather than corporate interests. The doctor, who voted for Barack Obama in 2012, now calls himself 100 percent anti-establishment and believes many Democratic incumbents will fall this cycle because voters want change from the top down. His decision to run for Congress instead of a state or local seat stems directly from events in Gaza and the West Bank. Lally, who is Irish American, draws parallels between historical Irish oppression and the situation facing Palestinians. He says local offices lack the platform needed to address what he terms genocide, making the federal race the only appropriate forum.
Points of Conflict With Lee
Lally criticizes Lee for accepting more than $735,000 from AIPAC, which he links to insufficient pressure on Israel. He also faults her support for the Laken Riley Act, claiming it weakened due process and aided aggressive immigration enforcement. Another point of contention is Lee’s vote for a House resolution honoring Charlie Kirk after his death; Lally calls the measure inappropriate given Kirk’s rhetoric. On the broader Trump administration, Lally argues that appeasement has failed and that Democrats must confront authoritarian tendencies directly. He points to Lee’s overall voting record as evidence that centrism has enabled corporate influence in health care and other sectors.
Lee’s Defense of Her Record
Lee maintains that her bipartisan style delivers concrete results for the district. She highlights a recent multi-billion-dollar Defense Department investment in MP Materials, a rare-earth mining company tied to Las Vegas, which she says will bring hundreds of jobs. The congresswoman notes that she has repeatedly called for humanitarian access in Gaza and has criticized Israeli actions when warranted. She rejects the idea that her donations from AIPAC or other groups compromise her independence, stating that contributors support her positions on public lands, gun safety, and the U.S.-Israel relationship. Lee also defends her vote on the Laken Riley Act, noting that courts have already addressed problematic language through judicial review.
Financial and Electoral Outlook
Lally has raised $830,000 for the June 9 primary, including a $600,000 self-funded loan. Lee reports $3.5 million in contributions. While Lally acknowledges he trails in fundraising, he insists the gap is surmountable if his message reaches enough voters. Few observers predicted a serious contest, yet Lally believes frustration with both the Trump administration and corporate influence could produce an upset.
