Full Breakdown
George Kelesis Nominated as Nevada U.S. Attorney
2/18/2026, 2:06:38 AM
Nomination Overview
George Kelesis, a seasoned defense attorney and state official, has been nominated by the White House to serve as the U.S. attorney for Nevada. This nomination marks the first permanent appointment by Donald Trump's administration during his second term. Kelesis, 70, has practiced law in Nevada for 45 years and currently partners at the Las Vegas firm Cook & Kelesis. He has also chaired the Nevada Tax Commission since 2023, following a previous tenure on the commission from 2002 to 2020. If confirmed by the U.S. Senate, Kelesis would replace Sigal Chattah, who has been serving in interim capacities since March 2023 amid legal scrutiny regarding her appointment.
Background and Context
Kelesis's legal career began in the early 1980s when he was mentored by Michael Cherry, who later became Chief Justice of the Nevada Supreme Court. Kelesis has built a reputation as both a tax attorney and a trial lawyer, co-founding several law firms throughout his career. His firm, Cook & Kelesis, has received high ratings for legal ability and ethics from Martindale-Hubbell, a peer-review organization. Kelesis has also been involved in politically sensitive cases, including representing Republican National Committeeman Jim DeGraffenreid concerning Nevada's "fake electors" in the 2020 presidential election.
Political Affiliations and Contributions
Kelesis is a registered nonpartisan who has contributed to candidates from both major political parties. His political donations include $1,000 to George W. Bush's 2000 presidential campaign and $1,400 to Senator Catherine Cortez Masto's campaign in 2015. His law firm has also made significant contributions to various candidates, including $5,000 to both Chattah and Governor Joe Lombardo during their respective campaigns. Despite his nonpartisan registration, Kelesis's contributions have predominantly favored Democratic candidates in recent years.
Official Statements & Responses
Senators Jacky Rosen and Catherine Cortez Masto, both Democrats from Nevada, are reviewing Kelesis's nomination. Cortez Masto's office indicated that she intends to conduct a thorough interview with Kelesis. In contrast, Rosen's office has not yet made a public statement regarding her stance on the nomination.
Criticism & Opposition
Kelesis's nomination comes amid ongoing legal challenges regarding Chattah's interim appointment. A federal judge ruled that Chattah's appointment was illegal, a decision currently under appeal. Critics argue that the nomination process should be scrutinized, especially given the contentious nature of Chattah's tenure.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While Kelesis's bipartisan ties may facilitate his confirmation, there is uncertainty surrounding the future of Chattah's interim role. Depending on the outcome of the appeals court ruling regarding her appointment, she may remain in her position while Kelesis's nomination is processed.
Verbatim Quotes
“He’s the ultimate tax attorney, but he also is a great trial lawyer.” — Michael Cherry, Nevada Supreme Court Chief Justice
“He’ll be a great manager,” — Michael Cherry, regarding Kelesis's potential as U.S. attorney
Kelesis's nomination represents a significant moment in Nevada's legal landscape, with implications for both state and federal law enforcement.
