For many years, I dreamed of writing a definitive biography of Harry Reid, the late U.S. Senator who shaped the political landscape of Nevada and the nation. My journey began in 1986 at the Las Vegas Review-Journal, just before Reid’s Senate primary, when I was thrown into political reporting unexpectedly. At that time, Reid seemed like an unlikely candidate who would eventually rise to become one of the most influential politicians in Nevada’s history.
As time went on, I discovered that his public persona masked a fierce ambition, legislative skill, and a relentless pursuit of power. Reid’s story is not only one of personal success but also reflects the broader evolution of Nevada itself.
Today marks a significant milestone as my long-anticipated biography is finally published. This project has been a challenging journey, filled with both love and frustration, yet it has culminated in a work that I hope will endure through time.
My fascination with Reid’s life has spanned over two decades. Since the early 2000s, I sought the permission of those close to him to tell his story. Initially, my efforts seemed futile, especially after Reid released his autobiography in 2008, leading me to believe I had lost my chance. However, persistence paid off in 2019 when two literary agents approached me, expressing their support for the biography idea. Eventually, Reid himself agreed to participate, meeting me at the Bellagio where he was consulting for MGM Resorts.
Over two dozen interviews conducted via Zoom provided deeper insights into Reid’s complex character. Early on, I sensed a developing bond, bolstered by the presence of his wife, Landra, who often chimed in to enrich our discussions. Tragically, Reid’s passing in December 2021 cast a shadow over the project, but it also reignited my determination to complete his story.
As the writing began in earnest, I had access to Reid’s extensive archives at the University of Nevada, Reno, which unveiled a treasure trove of information, including FBI files from his investigations. Despite the wealth of material, I struggled to distill it into a coherent narrative. Encouraged by my wife, I temporarily stepped back from my responsibilities to focus solely on writing, which led to productive summer months in Paris, where I crafted much of the manuscript.
The editing process was rigorous, reducing the length significantly as I aimed for a final draft by May 2023. Each stage of this journey has tested my resolve and creativity, but ultimately led to a publication date in spring 2025 and a sense of relief and excitement about sharing Reid’s story.
While I look forward to the readers’ reception, what matters most to me is presenting a comprehensive, nuanced portrait of Reid—the impact he had on Nevada and the nation, and the ongoing influence he holds for many Democrats. Capturing the essence of any individual is challenging, but I aimed to provide a rich tapestry of evidence, opinions, and experiences that paint a vivid picture of a man who was undeniably significant in American politics.
This biography not only reflects Reid’s life but also resonates with the current political climate, reminding us of the complexities present in political leadership today. With great care taken in narrating this story, I hope it enriches the understanding of Reid’s legacy and invites readers to consider the profound changes he helped bring about during his career.