Building on Strength. Building for Nevada. 

| February 19, 2026

Stepping into the role of President at Nevada Policy feels both deeply meaningful and incredibly energizing. 

Before I look ahead, I want to honor what’s behind us. 

John Tsarpalas led this organization with conviction, steadiness, and a belief that ideas matter when they are backed by discipline. During his tenure, Nevada Policy didn’t just participate in conversations. We shaped them. 

We helped defeat Question 7, the ranked choice voting proposal, by doing what we do best: researching thoroughly, communicating clearly, and trusting voters with the facts. Nevadans made an informed decision because they were equipped to do so. 

We also stood firm against the expansion of the film tax credit. While flashy promises made headlines, our focus stayed on accountability and measurable results. That effort protected taxpayers and reinforced something important. Economic policy must work in reality, not just on paper. 

And then we launched Policy to People. 

This initiative marked a shift. It recognized that great research only matters if it reaches real families. Policy to People was built for people like Laura. Hardworking. Busy. Deeply affected by public policy. Often disconnected from it. We began translating complex issues into clear, accessible language so everyday Nevadans could understand not just what was happening, but why it mattered. 

Those victories and that evolution created a template. 
Research grounded in facts. 
Communication rooted in clarity. 
Engagement focused on citizens. 

Now we build on it. 

Nevada has faced educational challenges for far too long. Outcomes that limit potential. Systems that don’t always serve families well. We cannot accept that as permanent. 

Our first priority moving forward is expanding Education Savings Accounts and school choice. When families have the power to choose the right learning environment for their child, everything shifts. Innovation grows. Accountability improves. Outcomes rise. 

This is not about dismantling systems. It is about empowering families. Every parent deserves the ability to direct their child’s education in a way that works for them. Freedom in education is foundational to freedom in life. 

Second, we are focusing on federal land reform

Nevada is unique. A large portion of our land is federally controlled, limiting housing development and economic flexibility. The result? Constrained supply. Rising costs. Limited opportunity. 

Responsible land release can change that. 

It can expand housing options. 
It can restore affordability. 
It can give families the opportunity to build and invest. 

At its heart, this is about restoring the American Dream in Nevada. The ability to own a home and create stability should not be artificially restricted by structural barriers that no longer serve us. 

Third, we are prioritizing business expansion through thoughtful regulatory reform and modern energy infrastructure. 

New technology companies are looking for places where innovation is welcomed and supported. They need reliable energy. Predictable regulation. A policy climate that encourages growth rather than slows it. 

Nevada can compete nationally. But we must align policy with ambition. 

When we reduce unnecessary barriers and strengthen infrastructure, we create an environment where entrepreneurs can build, hire, and innovate. Economic strength does not happen by accident. It happens when policy and opportunity align. 

What excites me most is that we are not starting from scratch. 

We have momentum. 
We have systems. 
We have a statewide audience that is growing and engaged. 

The same disciplined research, clear communication, and citizen empowerment that helped secure past victories will now fuel this next chapter. 

Our vision remains steady and bold: 

Every Nevadan is free to build and choose their path. 

That means the freedom to choose a child’s education. 
The freedom to build a home. 
The freedom to start and grow a business. 
The freedom to pursue opportunity without unnecessary barriers. 

I am grateful for John’s leadership and for the Board’s thorough, thoughtful selection process. Their commitment to stability and long-term strength gives me tremendous confidence as we move forward together. 

This moment is not about change for the sake of change. It is about growth with intention. 

Nevada deserves policies that unlock potential, not limit it. Families deserve opportunity. Entrepreneurs deserve room to build. Students deserve options that help them thrive. 

We are building on strength. 
We are leaning into momentum. 
We are focused on impact. 

The next chapter of Nevada Policy is about expanding freedom in practical, tangible ways that affect everyday life. 

And I could not be more excited to step into it with you. 

Kaeley Cook serves as President of the Nevada Policy Research Institute, where she leads strategy, operations, and organizational growth while advancing free-market solutions that expand opportunity and prosperity for all Nevadans. She is driven by a clear belief that sound public policy should create tangible, positive change for families, students, and entrepreneurs across the state.  A proud Henderson native and product of Nevada’s public schools, Kaeley developed an early understanding of how policy decisions shape everyday life. That firsthand perspective fuels her commitment to empowering individuals, strengthening communities, and reducing barriers to success rather than expanding bureaucracy. Her leadership reflects a deep desire to ensure Nevada remains a place where hard work and innovation are rewarded.  With a background in operations and nonprofit management, Kaeley brings strong organizational leadership and a collaborative, service-minded approach to her work. She is passionate about engaging citizens in the policy process and championing reforms that expand economic freedom and improve quality of life across the Silver State.  Outside of her professional work, she enjoys reading, baking, and traveling. 

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