Become a Democrat for a Day: A Call to Nevada’s Nonpartisans for Transformative Change

Dear Fellow Nevadans,

For years, I’ve stood shoulder-to-shoulder with you as a tireless advocate for open primaries, ranked-choice voting, and the right of every citizen—regardless of party—to have a voice in our democracy. As the lead activist for Nevada’s Ballot Measure 3, I saw firsthand how both major parties united in a campaign of disinformation to defeat a reform that would have empowered nonpartisan voters. The reality is, we lost that battle. But Nevada’s future isn’t written yet—and our power to shape it remains, if we have the courage to use it.

Today, I’m asking you—my fellow independents, nonpartisans, and every Nevadan who believes in dignity and freedom—to become a Democrat for just one day. Not because you owe loyalty to a party, but because our moment to demand true economic justice is now. Here’s why it matters.

A Rigged System Needs a Real Solution

Decades of bipartisan complacency have left Nevada with an economy where the rich get richer and the rest of us fall further behind. While our mines, casinos, and data centers rake in billions, working families face rising rents, stagnant paychecks, and the constant fear that one emergency could spell disaster. This isn’t a partisan talking point—it’s cold, hard math. Nevada’s prosperity has been siphoned away, enriching distant shareholders while our communities struggle.

I’m not running to offer tweaks or empty promises. I’m running as an independent-minded Democrat on a nonpartisan platform centered on human rights, dignity, and freedom—because the stakes are too high for business as usual. I am the only candidate in the Democratic primary championing a bold, proven policy that can actually close the gap: the Nevada Permanent Fund, or Universal Basic Income.

Alaska’s Model, Nevada’s Opportunity

You don’t have to take my word for it. Look to Alaska, where for over 40 years, every resident has received an annual dividend from the Alaska Permanent Fund—paid for by a small share of oil revenues. It’s not welfare; it’s a return on our shared natural wealth. In 2022, every Alaskan received $3,284. This simple idea has survived because it works—and because it benefits everyone, regardless of party.

Nevada is even better positioned. Our mineral deposits are among the richest in North America. Our gaming and tech industries are booming. Yet, we’ve never asked the basic question: who truly benefits from Nevada’s wealth? A Nevada Permanent Fund would capture part of the revenue from our resources and invest it for the people—providing a universal dividend to every Nevadan, every month.

Why Nonpartisans Should Vote in the Democratic Primary

Maybe you’ve never voted in a party primary. Maybe you’re tired of partisan games. But here’s the truth: the June 9th Democratic primary is where the future of Nevada’s economy will be decided. If you care about ending inequality and building a system that serves us all, this is your chance to make history.

Both major parties have shown they’re willing to unite against reforms that threaten their power. But they can’t stop us if we unite across the lines they draw. For one day, you can register as a Democrat, vote for a candidate with a nonpartisan platform of economic justice, and then return to your independent status. Your voice will echo far beyond party lines.

A Policy That Transcends Partisanship

The Permanent Fund isn’t a left or right idea—it’s a Nevada idea. Conservatives should love it: it’s universal, reduces bureaucracy, respects individual choice, and rewards work without creating dependency. Progressives should support it because it tackles inequality head-on and gives every Nevadan a stake in our collective prosperity. Rural communities gain stable income; urban communities see reduced inequality and stronger local economies. Seniors, young people, families—all benefit.

This is why Alaska’s fund remains untouchable by politicians of any stripe: when everyone benefits, everyone protects it. It’s time Nevada stopped leaving our wealth on the table and started investing it in our people.

The Urgency Is Real—And the Power Is Yours

We can’t afford another fifty years of growing inequality. The status quo is not neutral; it’s a choice to let things get worse. But if we organize, if we become Democrats for a day and vote for genuine change, we can force both parties to listen—and finally claim our fair share.

Early voting starts May 25th. Election Day is June 9th. Register as a Democrat, vote for transformative economic justice, and tell your neighbors why this matters. Afterwards, you’re free to return to your independent roots. But for one day, your vote can change Nevada’s future.

This isn’t about party loyalty. It’s about dignity, freedom, and a Nevada that works for all of us—not just the privileged few. Join me, and together we can make history. Not me. Us.

With hope and determination,

Gamaliel “Gamy” Zavala Enriquez

Candidate for Nevada’s 2nd Congressional District