Stanley Vaughan, a 67-year-old Republican candidate running for the Nevada State Assembly, was brutally attacked on August 29 while putting up his own campaign signs. The shocking incident occurred in broad daylight along Pecos Road in Las Vegas. Vaughan, who is a U.S. Army veteran, was alone and focused on his work when a knife-wielding mugger approached him, demanding his wallet.
The attacker, described by Vaughan as disheveled and likely homeless, startled the candidate, who instinctively reacted to defend himself. "I turned around, caught me by surprise—then he started to lunge at me. I instinctively kicked him and he ran away," Vaughan explained to Fox5 Vegas. Initially unaware that he had been injured, Vaughan quickly realized he was bleeding from a deep gash on his forearm after getting into his car.
Las Vegas Republican candidate slashed by knife-wielding thug while putting up campaign signs https://t.co/AUCzCaLsJJ pic.twitter.com/pvrAcf3A2K
— New York Post (@nypost) September 8, 2024
Fortunately, his wife, a nurse, was able to tend to his injuries. Despite the trauma, Vaughan remains undeterred in his bid for the Nevada Assembly District 20 seat, though he vowed not to campaign alone anymore. He remains determined to continue his efforts in the race.
The attack has raised concerns about public safety, a key issue in Vaughan's platform. As a long-time local resident, Vaughan has been actively involved in his community, serving as a security and police liaison for his homeowner's association. His role includes helping neighbors file police reports, a duty Vaughan describes as part of "being a good neighbor."
MUST-SEE: Las Vegas Councilwoman Michele Fiore announces run for governor with in-your-face campaign video #8NN https://t.co/nVnupi7beK pic.twitter.com/wBWnb3XNqT
— 8 News Now (@8NewsNow) October 19, 2021
While Las Vegas police have classified the incident as isolated, it underscores a broader issue that Vaughan and many others have emphasized—rising crime in local communities. Crime statistics from the Las Vegas Metropolitan Police Department, however, show that robberies in the area where the attack occurred are down 23.6%.
The incident highlights not just Vaughan's personal commitment to his campaign but also the dangers candidates can face, particularly those who are vocal about public safety and community issues. While the police continue to investigate, Vaughan remains focused on his political goals and his message to voters: that crime and safety must be priorities in local governance.
Vaughan's resolve, even after the physical attack, demonstrates his commitment to his candidacy and to the issues affecting his community. The veteran has no intention of stepping down or slowing his campaign, despite the assault. In fact, he plans to use the incident as an example of the challenges faced by residents in his district, further galvanizing his supporters.
As Vaughan recovers, he hopes the upcoming election will bring more attention to the importance of public safety in Las Vegas. He continues to engage with voters, though from now on, he plans to campaign with more caution, ensuring he’s not alone during future public appearances.
