Former U.S. Sen. Harry Reid speaks from the witness stand, Thursday, March 28, 2019, in Las Vegas. Reid testified in his negligence lawsuit against the maker of an exercise device. (Photo: John Locher, AP)
LAS VEGAS — Las Vegas’ McCarran International Airport will officially be re-dubbed as Harry Reid International Airport this week.
Nevada Gov. Steve Sisolak and several other officials will be on hand Tuesday for a ceremony formally re-branding the airport.
In February, Clark County Commission unanimously approved renaming the airport after the state’s longest serving senator.
The Federal Aviation Administration agreed to the name change in June.
The airport was first named for Democratic Sen. Patrick McCarran, who served from 1933-1954. He was known as an ardent advocate for the aviation industry. But in recent months, critics have brought up his reported history of perpetuating racism, xenophobia and antisemitism.
Reid served in the Senate from 1987-2017. The Democrat was Senate Majority Leader between 2007 and 2015.
While Reid is not expected to attend, members of his family will be present.