CNN β Dennis Hof, the Nevada brothel owner who just days ago ousted a Republican state lawmaker in a primary, is already workshopping new campaign themes for the general election. And he says his career in politics is all possible because of Donald Trump. Dean Heller, who is up for re-election this year, will also not back Hof, according to local reports.
And Hof has the support of some Nevada evangelical leaders, who are important drivers of Republican turnout. Both had reality television shows and books. Both entered the arena late in life, already wealthy and with no real ties to corporate donors or lobbyists outside their own business interests. Hof calls Roger Stone, the flamboyant Richard Nixon veteran who has at times been close with Trump, the head of his campaign. Hof, like Trump, faced accusations of sexual assault during his campaign.
Two former prostitutes alleged he sexually assaulted them several years ago. Hof has denied those allegations and says they are part of a smear campaign against him, and prosecutors did not pursue charges, citing the statute of limitations.
Nevada law severely restricts advertising for brothels, so Hof relies heavily on press coverage. Hof says he decided to try to take down three-term Oscarson after Oscarson in backed Gov. All rights reserved. Sound familiar? Join our Newsletter for the latest news right to your inbox.
