Marty O’Donnell, a veteran video game composer and Donald Trump supporter, has won a key Republican primary in Nevada’s 3rd congressional district. He will face Democratic incumbent Rep. Susie Lee in the general election, in a district known for its competitive nature.
O’Donnell, best known for his work on the ‘Halo’ and ‘Destiny’ franchises, campaigned on issues such as supporting families, small businesses, and community safety. He secured endorsements from Trump and Nevada Gov. Joe Lombardo, boosting his bid in a crowded GOP field.
In a statement on Truth Social, Trump criticized Lee, accusing her of supporting policies like open borders, transgender participation in women’s sports, and defunding the police. Trump also highlighted Lee’s opposition to the 2017 tax cuts and her stance on rural healthcare, which he said are detrimental to the district.
O’Donnell has linked his political messaging to his experiences with culture wars in the gaming industry. He has criticized what he calls the ‘wokification’ of gaming, claiming that efforts to introduce diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives have alienated players and led to backlash.
The district has a history of divided voting. Despite Lee’s narrow victory in the recent congressional race, the district voted heavily for Trump in the 2024 presidential election. Lee, a former second-grade teacher, advocates for increased federal support for education and lowering healthcare costs, positioning herself as a moderate.
O’Donnell supports strict border control and the completion of a border wall. While Lee has occasionally supported tougher border security measures, she opposes some of Trump’s immigration policies, including efforts to eliminate birthright citizenship.
Jon Ross Myers is the executive editor and publisher of the Mississippi News Network, Mississippi's largest digital only media company. He can be reached at editor@tippahnews.com
