Nevada: Bill Richardson

This is obvious, but still noteworthy: the last time the Democratic presidential candidates were in Nevada for a nationally televised debate was in November -- a virtual circus that included seven presidential candidates. Now, as the Democrats return to Las Vegas on Tuesday for their final debate before the January 19 caucus, just three candidates will participate: Hillary Clinton, John Edwards and Barack Obama.

John Edwards’ second place finish in Iowa last night makes a Culinary endorsement in Nevada far less likely – if not impossible. Some Democratic insiders have suggested that Edwards’ only real chance to beat Hillary Clinton here was to secure the backing of Culinary.

Every four years, presidential candidates of both parties eagerly seek the endorsements of the Manchester Union Leader and the Des Moines Register as the two largest publications in crucial early-voting states.  These endorsements, which provide little in the way of actual votes but are invaluable for the positive press coverage, can drastically alter the makeup of a race, bringing lower-tier candidates to the fore and reminding voters that poll numbers don’t decide elections.

Actor and comedian Carlos Alazraqui, who plays Deputy James Garcia on the hit Comedy Central show “Reno 911,” will take part in three events for New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson’s campaign in Las Vegas tomorrow.  Ahead of his campaign swing, Alazraqui spoke candidly with PolitickerNV.com about politics, race, entertainers’ propensity toward liberalism and, of course, Bill Richardson.