Herrera wavers on run for Congress

Adrienne Packer

Friday, June 8, 2001 | 10:43 a.m.

Once considered a shoo-in for a newly created congressional seat, Dario Herrera said Thursday he is exploring all his options and might even consider running for a second term on the Clark County Commission.

"I have formed an exploratory committee, and I'm very seriously considering all my options," Herrera said. "I want to see what the district looks like when the Legislature is done."

Herrera, who has periodically visited Washington, D.C., to raise money for his congressional bid, said he began to waver on his plans to run when his son was born earlier this year. Herrera said he has raised more than $200,000, but he declined to offer a more specific dollar amount.

"My commitment to being a father is very important to me," the 27-year-old Herrera said. "That will be one of my strongest considerations. Of course, if I choose to not run for Congress, the alternative is to run for re-election."

Herrera said he is seeking input from his supporters, and there is plenty of time for him to decide.

Herrera, the youngest commissioner ever to chair the board, said the fact his Republican opponents are investigating his background and keeping a close eye on him had nothing to do with him deciding to explore his options.

Nevada gained a third congressional seat after the 2000 Census showed Clark County is the state's most populous area, making up 70 percent of the entire state's population.

Herrera was viewed as the favorite for the new seat because of his youth and Hispanic ethnicity. He is supported by a variety of ethnic and special interest groups as well as the big gaming corporations.

The Democrat's chief opponent in the race is expected to be Sen. Jon Porter, R-Henderson. However, it is likely more candidates will come forward when the Legislature determines the boundary lines for the third district.