Arizona’s 2024 Election Results: How Healthcare is Faring in the Race
Last Updated: 9:05AM MST, November 8
With polling locations now closed, the results of Arizona’s 2024 General Election are rolling in as election workers tally the vote.
How is healthcare faring at the polls? The Arizona Medical Political Action Committee has its finger on the pulse. While a final tally is expected to take up to 13 days, ArMPAC is providing frequent updates on how physician-endorsed candidates are performing in federal and local races.
Here’s a breakdown of certain election results and the outcomes for ArMPAC-supported candidates:
How This Election Differs
Voter Turnout
As of Wednesday, November 6, at 8:56AM MST, Arizona’s 2024 General Election has a 51.55% voter turnout rate. There are 4,367,593 registered voters in Arizona eligible to vote in this election. A total of 2,251,526 ballots have been cast. A majority of Arizona voters cast their ballots by mail in this year’s race.
Notably, Arizona’s 2024 Primary Election drew a significantly smaller voter turnout than in previous years, with only 30% of eligible voters participating.
Presidential Election Results
Arizona is receiving national attention as a key battleground state in the presidential race. With a few states still reporting, including Arizona, the latest national results as of Wednesday, November 6, at 8:32AM MST are:
CALLED | Vice-president Kamala Harris v. Former President Donald Trump – U.S. President
- RESULT: The Associated Press has called this race in favor of Trump, who currently leads the vote 51.1% to 47.5% with a margin of 53 electoral votes.
- In Arizona, Trump is maintaining the lead 51.9% to 47.2%, with 61% of votes being reported.
View the latest results from the Associated Press.
ArMPAC-Supported Candidate Results
ArMPAC endorsed a range of candidates committed to the House of Medicine. From Congressional to State Legislative races, our endorsees have worked across the aisle to improve healthcare access, advocate for patient-focused legislation, and support Arizona’s medical community.
Here’s how they are performing in the election:
U.S. Congressional Race
NOT CALLED | Amish Shah, MD – Congressional District 1
- Result: ArMPAC-endorsee and ArMA member Dr. Amish Shah is trailing behind David Schweikert 48.1% to 51.9% by a margin of roughly 16,649 votes.
- Dr. Shah is a strong voice for patient-centered healthcare, advocating for science-backed policies at the Arizona State Legislature. His experience as a physician would bring a valuable perspective to Congress as a representative of Arizonans.
Arizona State Senate
NOT CALLED | Senator Christine Marsh – Legislative District 4
- Result: ArMPAC-endorsed Christine Marsh is behind Carine Werner by 5,326 votes.
- Senator Marsh has long been a defender of the physician-patient relationship, ensuring quality care and accessible healthcare for Arizonans.
NOT CALLED | Senator Denise “Mitzi” Epstein – Legislative District 12
- Result: ArMPAC-endorsed Mitzi Epstein leads Cara Vicini 58.1% to 41.9% by 19,426 votes.
- A consistent advocate for physicians, Senator Epstein has shown a strong commitment to protecting the medical field’s integrity at the Capitol.
CALLED | Senator Priya Sundareshan – Legislative District 18
- Result: Uncontested Winner
- The uncontested winner of LD18’s Senate seat, Sundareshan will continue her advocacy for physicians and healthcare reform in Arizona.
NOT CALLED | Senator Brian Fernandez – Legislative District 23
- Result: ArMPAC endorsed Brian Fernandez leads Michelle Altherr 51.8% to 48.2% by 2,371 votes.
- Representing rural Arizona, Senator Fernandez has been a champion of healthcare policy tailored to Arizona’s unique needs.
Arizona State House of Representatives
NOT CALLED | Representative Matt Gress – Legislative District 4
- Result: ArMPAC-endorsed Matt Gress is leading in LD4’s House race with 74,629 votes.
- With a background in education and budget management, Rep. Gress has supported healthcare initiatives that improve access for all Arizonans.
NOT CALLED | Representative Sarah Liguori – Legislative District 5
- Result: ArMPAC endorsee Sarah Ligouri is winning with 40.56% of the vote.
- Known for her strong stance on healthcare equity, Rep. Liguori has been an unwavering advocate for physicians on the House Health & Human Services Committee.
NOT CALLED | Janeen Connolly – Legislative District 8
- Result: ArMPAC-endorsed Janeen Connolly is winning with 35.08% of the vote.
- Connolly is committed to patient-focused healthcare. One of her main policy focuses is improving workforce training programs, including for healthcare professionals here in Arizona.
NOT CALLED | Representative Seth Blattman – Legislative District 9
- Result: ArMPAC-endorsed Seth Blattman is holding second place, with 24.96% of the vote for one of LD9’s two seats in the House.
- A steadfast ally of the medical community, Rep. Blattman is committed to improving Arizona’s healthcare rankings and patient care.
NOT CALLED | Representative Lorena Austin – Legislative District 9
- Result: ArMPAC-endorsed Lorena Austin is maintaining the lead at 26.46% of the vote.
- Rep. Austin has been an advocate for affordable healthcare, ensuring patients receive the care they deserve.
NOT CALLED | Representative Julie Willoughby – Legislative District 13
- Result: ArMPAC endorsee Julie Willoughby is trailing behind Jeff Weninger at 25.69%.
- As a trauma nurse, Rep. Willoughby has brought hands-on healthcare experience to the legislature, championing reforms for patient insurance.
NOT CALLED | Representative Chris Mathis – Legislative District 18
- Result: ArMPAC-endorsed Chris Mathis is trailing second with 36.24% of the vote for one of LD18’s two seats in the Arizona House.
- With a healthcare law background, Rep. Mathis is a valuable asset to Arizona’s healthcare policy landscape.
CALLED | Representative Alma Hernandez – Legislative District 20
- Result: Uncontested Winner
- The winner of LD20’s uncontested race for a seat in the House, Hernandez will continue her legacy of working tirelessly on policies impacting physicians and their patients.
NOT CALLED | Representative Quantá Crews – Legislative District 26
- Result: ArMPAC endorsee Quanta Crews is trailing second in the race at 30.97% of the vote for one of LD26’s two seats in the Arizona House.
- Rep. Crews is a community-centered representative, focusing on equitable healthcare policy and workforce development.
NOT CALLED | Representative Beverly Pingerelli – Legislative District 28
- Result: ArMPAC-endorsed Beverly Pingerelli is ahead at 37.78% of counted votes.
- With her scientific background, Rep. Pingerelli has been instrumental in healthcare legislation, supporting Arizona’s medical community.
NOT CALLED | Representative Steve Montenegro – Legislative District 29
- Result: ArMPAC-endorsee Steve Montenegro is winning with 30.28% of the vote.
- As Chair of the House Health & Human Services Committee, Rep. Montenegro has championed bills with patient-focused reforms.
ArMPAC congratulates all our endorsed candidates on their achievement in running for public office. We look forward to championing physicians and their patients alongside our newly-elected legislative officials during the 2025 Legislative Session and beyond!
Other Races to Watch
NOT CALLED | Shawnna Bolick vs Judy Schwiebert – Legislative District 2 for Senate
- Result: Shawnna Bolick is leading Judy Schweibert 50.9% to 47.1% by a margin of 3,802 votes.
NOT CALLED | Teresa Martinez v Chris Lopez v Keith Seaman – Legislative District 16 for House
- Result: Teresa Martinez and Chris Lopez leading the vote at 36.48% and 33.28%, respectively.
NOT CALLED | Ruben Gallego vs Kari Lake – AZ US Senate
- Result: Rep. Ruben Gallego leads Kari Lake 49.8% to 48.1% with a margin of 43,830 votes.
NOT CALLED | Eli Crane vs Jonathan Nez – Congressional District 2
- Result: Eli Crane winning with 53.6% of the vote, leading by 24,111 votes.
NOT CALLED | Tim Stringham vs Justin Heap – Maricopa County Recorder
- Result: Justin Heap is leading the vote at 51.8% of the vote, a margin of 3.6%.
Ballot Propositions
NOT CALLED | Proposition 139 – Right to Abortion Initiative (2024)
- Result: As of Wednesday, November 7, at 12:00pM MST, 61.25% of counted votes are in favor of passing Proposition 139.
ArMPAC is grateful to voters for supporting candidates who stand by Arizona’s healthcare community. As ballots are counted throughout the night and into the coming days, we will inform you of developments in key races throughout the state.
Recounts in the state of Arizona are triggered automatically if the victor is winning by 0.5% or less of the votes. To learn more about how elections work in our state, click here for ArMPAC’s Election 101 Guide.
Interested in supporting ArMPAC’s mission? Consider donating or joining our efforts to advocate for Arizona’s physicians and patients.
Election 101: From Counting Ballots to Calling Races
Understanding election night procedures is incredibly important when tracking races and results. We understand this may feel complicated, so here is a quick guide:
Types of Early Ballots
Arizona offers multiple ways to vote early:
Mail-in early ballots: Voters request these ballots by mail. They must be received by the county election office by 7pm on election day to be counted.
In-person early ballots: These can be cast at early voting centers up to 27 days before election day. To find your nearest in-person early voting location, click here.
Drop-off early ballots: Voters can also return their mail-in ballots to secure drop boxes located at early voting centers and other designated sites. If you have yet to send in your mail-in ballot, make sure to drop it off instead of putting it in the mail to ensure it is collected in time to be counted. Find a drop-off location here!
How Ballots are Counted
Ballots are counted in several stages:
Early Ballots: Each mail-in or drop-off ballot goes through a signature verification process. Once verified, ballots are separated from the envelopes and counted, keeping voter information confidential.
Election Day Ballots: These are counted after polls close and added to already existing early ballot totals.
Provisional Ballots: If there’s a question about a voter’s eligibility, they complete a provisional ballot. These ballots are individually reviewed and only counted if eligibility is confirmed.
You can track your ballot through the Secretary of State’s office! Click here to check on your ballot.
Why are some results called early?
Media outlets often call elections when trends in the counted ballots make it highly unlikely for the trailing candidate to win. This isn’t an official result, but rather a statistical assessment based on counted votes and expected remaining ballots.
Why it can be right: Early calling can help convey expected outcomes, especially in cases where remaining ballots are from areas that consistently lean towards one candidate or party.
Why it can be wrong: Unexpected surges in late-counted ballots, especially from mail-ins or provisional ballots, can shift outcomes, especially in close races.
How Recounts Work in Arizona
Arizona has strict recount procedures:
Automatic Recounts: A recount is triggered only if the margin between candidates is 0.5% or less.
Requested Recounts: Arizona doesn’t allow candidates or voters to request recounts outside of the automatic margin. Candidates can, however, legally challenge results if there is evidence of ballot integrity issues.
Current Early Voter Turnout in Arizona
Arizona has just under 4.4 million registered voters across the state. This is broken into almost 1.3 million Democrats, roughly 1.5 million Republicans, and roughly 1.5 million designated as “other” (third party, independent, party undeclared).
For the 2024 election cycle, Arizona saw over 3.4 million mail-in ballots requested. To date, over 1.8 million of these ballots have been returned. This is roughly a 42% voter turnout a week prior to the election. Broken down by party, 34% of Democratic ballots, 41% of Republican ballots, and 25% of “other” ballots have been returned.
Currently, Democrats have a slightly higher turnout than Republicans at 49% and 48% respectively. The “other” category has a 35% turnout rate.
For comparison, for the 2020 Presidential election, Arizona had just shy of 4.3 million registered voters with an 80% voter turnout rate. With higher voter turnouts around Presidential elections and record numbers of ballots already returned, Arizona is on track to match or even beat previous voter turnout.
Certification Process
Results are certified a few weeks post-Election Day, once all ballots, including provisional and early votes, are counted. If a recount is needed, it is completed before certification.
ArMPAC released a general election guide, showcasing our endorsed candidates. This guide highlights bipartisan candidates from across the state. ArMA’s advocacy team will be watching the election diligently and will keep you up to date on all the action.
If you have not yet done so, remember to vote by either dropping off your ballot, early voting in-person, or voting in-person day of.
Your voice and your vote matter!
ArMPAC’s 2024 General Election Voter Guide
Arizona’s 2024 General Election is just around the corner on Tuesday, November 5! With the big day approaching fast, the Arizona Medical Political Action Committee (ArMPAC) is making it easier than ever to stay informed on which candidates are committed to supporting the House of Medicine
Each of our spotlighted candidates has committed to protecting the practice of medicine at the Arizona State Capitol and beyond. You will find that our list features a diverse, bipartisan group of voices, including physicians, teachers, healthcare educators, and more. Together, they can fight for the betterment of medicine in Arizona and work across the aisle to protect patients’ access to high-quality care.
Candidates at a Glance
Amish Shah, MD | Congressional District 1
Janeen Connolly | Legislative District 8
Rep Matt Gress | Legislative District 4
Rep Sarah Liguori | Legislative District 5
Rep Seth Blattman | Legislative District 9
RepLorena Austin | Legislative District 9
Rep Julie Willoughby | Legislative District 13
Rep Chris Mathis | Legislative District 18
Rep Alma Hernandez | Legislative District 20
Rep Quantá Crews | Legislative District 26
Rep Beverly Pingerelli | Legislative District 28
Rep Steve Montenegro | Legislative District 29
Senator Christine Marsh | Legislative District 4
Senator Denise Epstein | Legislative District 12
Senator Priya Sundareshan | Legislative District 18
Senator Brian Fernandez | Legislative District 23
Congressional Endorsements
This year, we are fortunate to have a physician and Arizona Medical Association member running to represent the State of Arizona in U.S. Congress.
Amish Shah, MD | Congressional District 1
Dr. Amish Shah, an emergency room physician, served as a representative of Legislative District 5 within the Arizona State Legislature for five years. He has a proven track record of sponsoring legislation that is patient-focused and backed by science. During his time at the legislature, Dr. Shah proudly worked across the aisle and, as a result, he had more bills passed and signed by the Governor than any other Democrat member during his tenure. He is dedicated to collaborating on important issues that impact all Arizonans and is a reliable champion for the healthcare community.
New State Endorsements
This year, ArMPAC is proud to endorse new candidates for the Arizona State Senate and House of Representatives. From freshman candidates to seasoned legislators seeing re-election in a different chamber, these are the individuals stepping up for physicians and their patients:
New House of Representatives Candidates
Janeen Connolly | Legislative District 8
Janeen Connolly is committed to patient-focused healthcare; she knows, from experience, that healthcare gives Arizonans the ability to work and serve their community. One of her main policy focuses is improving workforce training programs including for healthcare professionals here in Arizona.
Incumbent State Endorsements
Many of Arizona’s current state legislators are running for re-election in 2024. Of those seeking re-election, several have proven to be allies of the physician and patient communities.
House of Representatives Incumbents
Representative Matt Gress | Legislative District 4
In 2024, Representative Matt Gress completed his first term in the Arizona State Legislature, where he demonstrated his commitment to working across party lines on policies that improve health care access in Arizona. In addition to his work on the House Health & Human Services Committee, Rep. Gress has experience as a high school English teacher in a low-income area and has served as the state’s budget director. His experiences provide him with a unique perspective on the issues facing Arizonans and make him an ideal candidate for reelection in Legislative District 4.
Representative Sarah Liguori | Legislative District 5
Representative Sarah Liguori was appointed to represent Arizona’s Legislative District 5 during the Arizona State 56th Legislature’s Second Regular Session. She is a strong advocate for equity and equality as well as a dedicated member of the community. Rep. Liguori has been a strong, reasonable voice on the House Health & Human Services Committee, where she has proven a consistent ally to physicians everywhere and an excellent choice for voters in LD5.
Representative Seth Blattman | Legislative District 9
Representative Seth Blattman, who represents Arizona’s Legislative District 9, wants to see Arizona ranked #1 in healthcare spending. Rep. Blattman’s history of honesty and support for physicians make him an ideal candidate for representing the constituents of LD9.
Representative Lorena Austin | Legislative District 9
Representative Lorena Austin has been and will continue to be an excellent advocate for the physicians of Arizona’s Legislative District 9. Representative Austin is passionate about affordable, responsible healthcare and is committed to protecting the House of Medicine in Arizona.
Representative Julie Willoughby | Legislative District 13
Representative Julie Willoughby is an emergency room trauma nurse and dedicated public servant. She cares deeply about the medical community and Arizona’s patients. Rep.Willoughby sees the clear need for change within our healthcare system and works tirelessly to address these problems at the Capitol and beyond. In her first year as part of the legislature, she championed several patient-focused insurance reforms and vows to continue this work in the years to come.
Representative Chris Mathis | Legislative District 18
As a professor of health care law at the University of Arizona, Representative Chris Mathis knows what’s best for physicians and patients in Arizona’s Legislative District 18. Rep. Mathis has a robust knowledge of healthcare policy, making him a valuable asset to physicians and healthcare professionals across the state.
Representative Alma Hernandez | Legislative District 20
Representative Alma Hernandez has a passion for medicine. She holds a bachelor’s degree in care, health & society and a master’s in public health, both of which she earned from the University of Arizona. She is an outspoken ally for the House of Medicine and shows her dedication to medicine and to patients through her daily work and proven ability to work across the aisle.
Representative Quantá Crews | Legislative District 26
Representative Quantá Crews is deeply involved with her community in Arizona’s Legislative District 26. She coordinates the No Limits Special Needs Ministry and is passionate about equitable policy. Since her appointment in 2023, Rep. Crews has been an ally to the medical community on issues of insurance, scope, and workforce development.
Representative Beverly Pingerelli | Legislative District 28
Representative Beverly Pingerelli has a background in biological sciences, working as a cytogenetics technologist at St. Joseph’s Molecular Medicine Lab. Between her background and her dedication to bettering the lives of Arizonans, Rep. Pingerelli has proven herself to be an ally to physicians across the state. During her tenure, Rep. Pingerelli worked tirelessly on key healthcare legislation and never backed down from a challenge, making her an excellent choice for voters in Arizona’s Legislative District 28.
Representative Steve Montenegro | Legislative District 29
Representative Steve Montenegro served as the House Health & Human Services Committee Chair during the Arizona State 56th Legislature’s regular session. As Chair, he was always open and available to physicians for policy discussions on bills as they moved through the process, and he championed several bills with important patient-focused reforms.
State Senate Incumbents
Senator Christine Marsh | Legislative District 4
Senator Christine Marsh believes in a future where the doctor-patient relationship is respected and protected. That’s why her election to the Arizona State Senate is absolutely necessary to create a healthy future for all Arizonans.
Senator Denise “Mitzi” Epstein | Legislative District 12
Senator Mitzi Epstein has always held the same principles in her service to Arizona’s Legislative District 12. She is consistent, and her dedication to physicians is deeply exemplified through her actions at the Arizona State Capitol and beyond. Committed to protecting the practice of medicine in Arizona, Senator Epstein is the best choice for LD12.
Senator Priya Sundareshan | Legislative District 18
Senator Priya Sundareshan is the best choice for voters of Arizona’s Legislative District 18. Senator Sundareshan continues to be an advocate for the physician community and works hard to ensure a healthier future for the next generation of Arizonans.
Senator Brian Fernandez | Legislative District 23
Senator Brian Fernandez is a native Arizonan. Born and raised in the district he serves, Senator Fernandez is deeply in tune with the unique issues rural Arizonans face every day. He is a champion of medical policy and a physician’s best advocate. Senator Fernandez was the recipient of ArMA’s 2024 Walk the Talk Award, and he is an excellent choice for voters in Legislative District 23.
Thank you for joining ArMPAC in supporting those supporting you.
Be sure to visit the Arizona Medical Association’s website for frequent updates on physician advocacy and healthcare policy issues impacting physicians and their patients.
Not sure where or how to vote? Visit Arizona.Vote to research candidates, find polling locations, and request your early ballot by October 25.
Your vote is more than just a checkmark—it’s a stand for the future of medicine in our state. Join us in supporting the voices that stand for you. Consider contributing to ArMPAC to help us keep physician-friendly candidates in the fight.
You’re invited to ArMPAC’s “Stop Scope Scares” Fundraiser & Happy Hour.
Psychologists prescribing. Pharmacists testing & treating. CRNAs practicing independently. Dangerous scope expansions like these are brought to the Arizona State Capitol every year.
That’s why ArMPAC invites you to our fundraiser & happy hour in uptown Phoenix on Saturday, October 26, from 4 to 6PM, for networking, drinks, and appetizers.
Your attendance will support political candidates who understand misguided scope expansions aren’t the answer to Arizona’s healthcare challenges.
Donate what you can & join ArMPAC in stopping ‘scope scares.’
This year, Arizona’s review process for scope expansions was repealed. Now, the only thing standing between inappropriate expansions and your profession is physician advocacy.
ArMPAC is a key part of the Arizona Medical Association’s physician-driven advocacy strategy. By supporting the election of healthcare-minded candidates, we can ensure the physician voice is not only heard but acted on.
Donate what you can — $25, $50, or $100 — and stand up against ‘scope scares.’
Featured The Results Are In: Analyzing Arizona’s Primary Election
Celebrating Victories: ArMPAC’s Impact on Arizona’s 2024 Primary Election
Arizona’s 2024 Primary Election was held yesterday, and while many votes are still being counted, we have some exciting results to share! Voters had the opportunity to select party nominees for federal, state, and local elections.
Tuesday saw 1.1 million ballots cast, 26.02% voter turn out, with 96% of precincts reporting. Our endorsed healthcare-minded candidates showed strong performances, and we’re excited to see many of them advancing. Here’s a quick rundown of the outcomes:
Primary Election Victories
Amish Shah, MD | Congressional District 1
Janeen Connolly | Legislative District 8
Learn more about Ms. Connolly »
Representative Matt Gress | Legislative District 4
Representative Sarah Liguori | Legislative District 5
Learn more about Rep. Liguori »
Representative Seth Blattman | Legislative District 9
Learn more about Rep. Blattman »
Representative Lorena Austin | Legislative District 9
Learn more about Rep. Austin »
Representative Julie Willoughby | Legislative District 13
Learn more about Rep. Willoughby »
Representative Chris Mathis | Legislative District 18
Learn more about Rep. Mathis »
Representative Alma Hernandez | Legislative District 20
Learn more about Rep. Hernandez »
Representative Quantá Crews | Legislative District 26
Representative Beverly Pingerelli | Legislative District 28
Learn more about Rep. Pingerelli »
Representative Steve Montenegro | Legislative District 29
Learn more about Rep. Montenegro »
Senator Christine Marsh | Legislative District 4
Learn more about Senator Marsh »
Senator Denise “Mitzi” Epstein | Legislative District 12
Learn more about Senator Epstein »
Senator Priya Sundareshan | Legislative District 18
Learn more about Senator Sundareshan »
Senator Brian Fernandez | Legislative District 23
Learn more about Senator Fernandez »
Primary Election Losses
While some of our candidates didn’t make it through, their efforts and dedication to healthcare advocacy remain invaluable:
Zuhdi Jasser, MD | Congressional District 4
Zuhdi Jasser, MD | Congressional District 4
Learn more about Ms. Hunsaker »
Representative David Cook | Legislative District 7
As votes continue to be tallied, we remain optimistic about the final counts and grateful for the commitment each candidate has shown to improving healthcare in Arizona.
What’s Next?
ArMPAC, the non-partisan political arm of the Arizona Medical Association, is dedicated to ensuring that your voice is heard at the Arizona State Capitol and beyond. We support candidates who advocate for the healthcare community, and your involvement is crucial.
Get Involved
You can help make a difference by making a small, recurring donation to ArMPAC. Your contributions allow us to continue supporting candidates who prioritize your needs and work towards preventing costly, intrusive, and unnecessary legislation affecting the daily practice of medicine.
Stay tuned for more updates, and thank you for your continued support!
ArMPAC’s 2024 Primary Election Voter Guide
Arizona’s 2024 Primary Election is right around the corner! Monday, July 1 is the voter registration deadline for the State Primary Election, which is taking place on Tuesday, July 30. To learn more about important election dates and your legislative district, click here.
With your time at the ballot box rapidly approaching, the Arizona Medical Political Action Committee (ArMPAC) is making it easier than ever before to stay informed on which candidates have vowed to support the physician community. Take a moment to meet this election cycle’s ArMPAC-endorsed candidates by reviewing our newly published 2024 Primary Election Voter Guide. With ArMPAC’s voter guide in hand, you can feel confident that your vote will support a strong future for health care policy.
Every one of our spotlighted candidates has committed to protecting the practice of medicine at the Arizona State Capitol and beyond. You will find that our list features a diverse, bipartisan group of voices, including physicians, teachers, healthcare educators, and more. Together, they can fight for the betterment of medicine in Arizona and work across the aisle to protect patients’ access to high-quality care.
Congressional Endorsements
This year, we are fortunate to have two physicians and Arizona Medical Association members running to represent the State of Arizona in U.S. Congress.
Amish Shah, MD | Congressional District 1
Dr. Amish Shah, an emergency room physician, served as a representative of Legislative District 5 within the Arizona State Legislature for five years. He has a proven track record of sponsoring legislation that is patient-focused and backed by science. During his time at the legislature, Dr. Shah proudly worked across the aisle and, as a result, he had more bills passed and signed by the Governor than any other Democrat member during his tenure. He is dedicated to collaborating on important issues that impact all Arizonans and is a reliable champion for the healthcare community.
Zuhdi Jasser, MD | Congressional District 4
Dr. Zuhdi Jasser is an internal medicine physician and United States Navy Veteran dedicated to Arizona’s medical community. In 2007, he served as president of the Arizona Medical Association, and he is also responsible for the founding and chairing of ArMA’s Private Practice Physician Section. Additionally, Dr. Jasser founded and chairs the same section of the American Medical Association. His experience and unique perspective on the obstacles facing private practices in Arizona and beyond make him an excellent candidate for representing the state’s Congressional District 4.
New State Endorsements
This year, ArMPAC is proud to endorse new candidates for the Arizona State Senate and House of Representatives. From freshman candidates to seasoned legislators seeing re-election in a different chamber, these are the individuals stepping up for physicians and their patients:
New House of Representatives Candidates
Janeen Connolly | Legislative District 8
Janeen Connolly is committed to patient-focused healthcare; she knows, from experience, that healthcare gives Arizonans the ability to work and serve their community. One of her main policy focuses is improving workforce training programs including for healthcare professionals here in Arizona.
Lalani Hunsaker | Legislative District 14
Lalani Hunsaker is a proud Arizonan and a dedicated community member. Her unique background of working across the aisle illustrates her desire to work together in the name of accomplishing good policy for Arizonans. She is interested in improving access to behavioral healthcare and expanding workforce training programs. She is a new candidate running in Arizona’s Legislative District 14, and ArMPAC believes she will be an excellent ally to the House of Medicine.
New Senate Candidates
Representative David Cook | Legislative District 7
Representative David Cook believes in a healthy Arizona for all. He has a unique perspective on rural Arizona and recognizes the need for better access to food, water, and medicine. He is a strong and relentless ally on issues regarding rural medicine and insurance reform, and he has several years of experience at the Arizona State Capitol under his belt.
Incumbent State Endorsements
Many of Arizona’s current state legislators are running for re-election in 2024. Of those seeking re-election, several have proven to be allies of the physician and patient communities.
House of Representatives Incumbents
Representative Matt Gress | Legislative District 4
In 2024, Representative Matt Gress completed his first term in the Arizona State Legislature, where he demonstrated his commitment to working across party lines on policies that improve health care access in Arizona. In addition to his work on the House Health & Human Services Committee, Rep. Gress has experience as a high school English teacher in a low-income area and has served as the state’s budget director. His experiences provide him with a unique perspective on the issues facing Arizonans and make him an ideal candidate for reelection in Legislative District 4.
Representative Sarah Liguori | Legislative District 5
Representative Sarah Liguori was appointed to represent Arizona’s Legislative District 5 during the Arizona State 56th Legislature’s Second Regular Session. She is a strong advocate for equity and equality as well as a dedicated member of the community. Rep. Liguori has been a strong, reasonable voice on the House Health & Human Services Committee, where she has proven a consistent ally to physicians everywhere and an excellent choice for voters in LD5.
Representative Seth Blattman | Legislative District 9
Representative Seth Blattman, who represents Arizona’s Legislative District 9, wants to see Arizona ranked #1 in healthcare spending. Rep. Blattman’s history of honesty and support for physicians make him an ideal candidate for representing the constituents of LD9.
Representative Lorena Austin | Legislative District 9
Representative Lorena Austin has been and will continue to be an excellent advocate for the physicians of Arizona’s Legislative District 9. Representative Austin is passionate about affordable, responsible healthcare and is committed to protecting the House of Medicine in Arizona.
Representative Julie Willoughby | Legislative District 13
Representative Julie Willoughby is an emergency room trauma nurse and dedicated public servant. She cares deeply about the medical community and Arizona’s patients. Rep.Willoughby sees the clear need for change within our healthcare system and works tirelessly to address these problems at the Capitol and beyond. In her first year as part of the legislature, she championed several patient-focused insurance reforms and vows to continue this work in the years to come.
Representative Chris Mathis | Legislative District 18
As a professor of health care law at the University of Arizona, Representative Chris Mathis knows what’s best for physicians and patients in Arizona’s Legislative District 18. Rep. Mathis has a robust knowledge of healthcare policy, making him a valuable asset to physicians and healthcare professionals across the state.
Representative Alma Hernandez | Legislative District 20
Representative Alma Hernandez has a passion for medicine. She holds a bachelor’s degree in care, health & society and a master’s in public health, both of which she earned from the University of Arizona. She is an outspoken ally for the House of Medicine and shows her dedication to medicine and to patients through her daily work and proven ability to work across the aisle.
Representative Quantá Crews | Legislative District 26
Representative Quantá Crews is deeply involved with her community in Arizona’s Legislative District 26. She coordinates the No Limits Special Needs Ministry and is passionate about equitable policy. Since her appointment in 2023, Rep. Crews has been an ally to the medical community on issues of insurance, scope, and workforce development.
Representative Beverly Pingerelli | Legislative District 28
Representative Beverly Pingerelli has a background in biological sciences, working as a cytogenetics technologist at St. Joseph’s Molecular Medicine Lab. Between her background and her dedication to bettering the lives of Arizonans, Rep. Pingerelli has proven herself to be an ally to physicians across the state. During her tenure, Rep. Pingerelli worked tirelessly on key healthcare legislation and never backed down from a challenge, making her an excellent choice for voters in Arizona’s Legislative District 28.
Representative Steve Montenegro | Legislative District 29
Representative Steve Montenegro served as the House Health & Human Services Committee Chair during the Arizona State 56th Legislature’s regular session. As Chair, he was always open and available to physicians for policy discussions on bills as they moved through the process, and he championed several bills with important patient-focused reforms.
State Senate Incumbents
Senator Christine Marsh | Legislative District 4
Senator Christine Marsh believes in a future where the doctor-patient relationship is respected and protected. That’s why her election to the Arizona State Senate is absolutely necessary to create a healthy future for all Arizonans.
Senator Denise “Mitzi” Epstein | Legislative District 12
Senator Mitzi Epstein has always held the same principles in her service to Arizona’s Legislative District 12. She is consistent, and her dedication to physicians is deeply exemplified through her actions at the Arizona State Capitol and beyond. Committed to protecting the practice of medicine in Arizona, Senator Epstein is the best choice for LD12.
Senator Priya Sundareshan | Legislative District 18
Senator Priya Sundareshan is the best choice for voters of Arizona’s Legislative District 18. Senator Sundareshan continues to be an advocate for the physician community and works hard to ensure a healthier future for the next generation of Arizonans.
Senator Brian Fernandez | Legislative District 23
Senator Brian Fernandez is a native Arizonan. Born and raised in the district he serves, Senator Fernandez is deeply in tune with the unique issues rural Arizonans face every day. He is a champion of medical policy and a physician’s best advocate. Senator Fernandez was the recipient of ArMA’s 2024 Walk the Talk Award, and he is an excellent choice for voters in Legislative District 23.
Thank you for joining ArMPAC in supporting those supporting you.
Be sure to visit the Arizona Medical Association’s website for frequent updates on physician advocacy and healthcare policy issues impacting physicians and their patients.
And, check back soon for ArMPAC’s General Election Voter Guide, coming later this year.
Plans to Fill Senator Steve Kaiser’s Legislative Seat
After the resignation of Senator Steve Kaiser late last week, the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors will now select his replacement from a slate of candidates nominated by the Legislative District 2 Precinct Committeemen. Nominees include former lawmaker Shawna Bolick, former Congressional candidate Josh Barnett, and Legislative District 2 Chair Paul Carver. The appointee will only serve the remaining 18 months left in Kaiser’s term before having to run for the seat in the highly competitive district.
Arizona LD26 Vacancy Filled
On Monday, the Maricopa County Board of Supervisors voted for Quantá Crews to fill the LD26 vacancy that was left when former Senate Minority Leader Raquel Terán resigned to focus on her Congressional campaign. Crews has a professional background in real estate appraisal and is an executive board member of the Arizona Chapter of the International Association of Assessing Officers. She also serves as an associate minister at the Tanner Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church.
“This is a tremendous honor and I am deeply grateful to my family, friends, and fellow precinct committeemen for their unwavering support and trust. “I am excited about the opportunity to work alongside the state legislature and governor to enact meaningful change and make Arizona a place where everyone can thrive.” shared Crews.
Legislative Champion Dr. Amish Shah Launches Congressional Campaign
Physician, state legislator, and ArMA member Dr. Amish Shah announced his candidacy for U.S. Congress on April 3. With over 15 years of experience as an emergency physician and three successful terms in the legislature, Dr. Shah looks to continue supporting physicians and patients by running for Arizona’s First Congressional District (CD1). Dr. Shah is a healthcare champion with integrity, compassion, and invaluable experience. Click here to read his announcement. To learn more about his congressional candidacy, please visit amishforarizona.com.
ArMPAC Announces 2022 Primary Election Candidate Endorsements
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
The Arizona Medical Political Action Committee (ArMPAC) is pleased to announce its 2022 primary election candidate endorsements for Arizona’s State House of Representatives and Senate. Comprised of physicians across Arizona and led by an 18-member Board of Directors, ArMPAC is a nonpartisan political action committee that supports candidates for office who understand the challenges physicians face today.
2022 Incumbent Endorsements Include:
Arizona House of Representatives
- Rep. Amish Shah, MD — LD5
- Rep. Chris Mathis — LD18
- Rep. Joel John — LD25
Arizona Senate
- Sen. Tyler Pace — LD9
- Rep. Speaker Russell “Rusty” Bowers — LD10
- Rep. Joanne Osborne — LD29
New candidates
Arizona House of Representatives
- Selina Bliss — LD1
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About Arizona Medical Political Action Committee
The Arizona Medical Association Political Action Committee (ArMPAC) is the nonpartisan PAC for the Arizona Medical Association (ArMA), the largest organization in the state representing the interests of physicians. ArMPAC endorses candidates who support Arizona physicians and the patients they care for and is committed to the highest quality of healthcare for all Arizonans. For more information, visit www.ArMPAC.org and follow ArMPAC on Facebook and Twitter.