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.
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.
ArMPAC’s 2022 General Election Voter Guide
Arizona’s 2022 General Election is right around the corner! Tuesday, October 11 is the last day to register to vote in the State General Election, which is taking place on Tuesday, November 8. 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 2022 General 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. You will find that our list features a diverse, bipartisan group of voices, including physicians, nurses, teachers, veterans, and first-generation Americans. Together, they can fight for the betterment of medicine in Arizona and work across the aisle to protect patients’ access to high-quality care.
Incumbents:
Arizona House of Representatives
Representative Judy Schwiebert – LD2
Representative Judy Schwiebert is Arizona’s best choice for LD2. Her deep-rooted ties to Arizona’s education and strong belief in a healthy Arizona make her an ideal voice to speak for the physician community in Arizona.
“I believe Arizonans should have access to quality affordable healthcare, regardless of pre-existing conditions. I will work to allow consumers to buy into AHCCCS, the state’s Medicaid agency, increasing the program’s bargaining power to reduce premiums for everyone.” Learn more about Rep. Schwiebert »
Representative Justin Wilmeth – LD2
Representative Justin Wilmeth is dedicated to a future of good health care policy that benefits physicians and their patients.
“Between his life experiences and education, Justin has proven to be an adept state legislator. He first won election to the House in 2020. In only one term at the Arizona House of Representatives, he was the prime sponsor of 18 bills that were signed into law.” Learn more about Rep. Wilmeth »
Representative Amish Shah – LD5
As the strongest voice for physicians at the Arizona State Capitol, Representative Shah understands how to communicate the unique needs of medicine. Rep. Shah is an ArMA member and the 2022 recipient of ArMA’s Distinguished Service Award.
“I am a physician who works all over Arizona in our Emergency Departments. Every day, I take care of people without any regard for their ability to pay. Many are in the ER because they have nowhere else to go, but the ER cannot provide comprehensive care… I stand for ALL AMERICANS to have comprehensive and high-quality healthcare with ease of access.” Learn more about Rep. Shah here »
Representative David Cook – LD7
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.
“In his first two terms, he has established himself as a leader on issues that relate to ranching, agriculture, rural issues, water, and education. He has also been a vocal leader on the issue of transportation and infrastructure and has led the fight to bring increased funding for roads and bridges to our part of the state.” Learn more about Rep. Cook here »
Representative Melody Hernandez – LD8
Representative Melody Hernandez is one of the few representatives who is actively serving the health care needs of her community. As an active paramedic and having worked in emergency medical services for over seven years, Rep. Hernandez speaks to ensure that all Arizonans have access to the services they need.
“Her experiences fighting to protect and uplift others has reinforced why stronger access to healthcare, public education, jobs, and housing is essential to building strong families and a strong economy – and that’s what she will continue to fight for at the Capitol.” Learn more about Rep. Hernandez here »
Representative Jennifer Pawlik – LD13
Representative Jennifer Pawlik is Arizona’s best choice for LD13. Rep. Pawlik is committed to not only protecting the practice of medicine but is committed to educating the public on why medicine needs protecting.
“We must also encourage preventive care, so that small problems don’t become worse. We must equip people to make smart choices about their own health and well-being.” Learn more about Rep. Pawlik here »
Representative Chris Mathis – LD18
As a professor of health care law at the University of Arizona, Representative Chris Mathis knows what’s best for LD18. Rep. Mathis has a robust knowledge of healthcare policy, making him an asset to physicians and all health care professionals.
“A Professor of Practice at the University of Arizona’s James E. Rogers College of Law and Arizona Education Association member, Chris teaches classes on Health Care Law & Policy and Aging. He formerly served as Director of Policy & Communications at the Healthcare Markets & Regulation (HMR) Lab at Harvard Medical School and as Southern Arizona Coordinator for the Flinn-Brown Fellows Civic Leadership Program.” Learn more about Rep. Mathis here »
Arizona State Senate
Representative Steve Kaiser – LD2
Representative Steve Kaiser is passionate about serving the unique needs of his district, the very community he grew up in. As the Vice-Chair of the House Health and Human Services Committee, Rep. Kaiser has been an asset to the healthcare community.
“Steve believes the district needs a leader who understands the principles that make a thriving economy, a safe state, and strong families.” Learn more about Rep. Kaiser here »
Senator Christine Marsh – LD4
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.
“Arizona is facing a physician shortage and I will advocate for new policy and expanded programs that will help retain graduate medical professionals in our state and strengthen our hospital system.” Learn more about Sen. Marsh here »
Representative Mitzi Epstein – LD12
Representative Mitzi Epstein has always held the same principles in her service to her district. Committed to protecting the practice of medicine in Arizona, Rep. Epstein is the best choice for LD12.
“Our state Legislature decides which rights and protections we have – and which we don’t. The Arizona Legislature has the power to protect our rights but only with the right people in office.” Learn more about Rep. Epstein here »
Senator T.J. Shope – LD16
Senator T.J. Shope is the best-prepared candidate to protect and advocate for Arizona physicians in LD16. Sen. Shope has honorably served on the Senate Health Committee and has a history of standing for legislation that stands for physicians.
“His commitment to finding real solutions to real problems is obvious, and those who know him recognize his strong work ethic, bright mind, and dedication to the people of his community.” Learn more about Sen. Shope here »
New Candidates:
Arizona House of Representatives
Selina Bliss – LD1
Meet Selina Bliss, ArMPAC’s new candidate endorsement for LD1. Bliss has an impressive and extensive health care background as a nurse at Yavapai Regional Medical Center and a teacher at Yavapai College. Her deep understanding of the health care community will be an asset at the legislature.
“The most effective government is government closest to the people… The strength of our nation lies with the individual and that each person’s dignity, freedom, ability, and responsibility must be honored.” Learn more about Selina Bliss here »
Cathy Ransom – LD1
Cathy Ransom brings all the right skills to the table. Ransom has worked in the world of health care and has been a strong advocate for domestic violence awareness.
“We can also improve the health of Arizonans through community health centers, which have a proven track record of success in increasing population health. Having professionals share knowledge and train citizen volunteers can help everyone better understand how to care for themselves and their family.” Learn more about Cathy Ransom here »
Matt Gress – LD4
Matt Gress is committed to working on both sides of the aisle to promote policies that better the health care community in Arizona. Gress has a unique perspective on finance and budgeting.
“Here in Arizona, Matt has served as a faculty associate at Arizona State University and as a budget analyst at the Arizona State Capitol, learning exactly where our tax dollars go.” Learn more about Matt Gress here »
Laura Terech – LD4
Laura Terech will stand up for physicians when elected to the House and will fight to see a healthier Arizona for all.
“After a career as an elementary school teacher in the Pendergast Elementary School District, I turned to community organizing, knowing we must make structural changes to how and when Arizona invests… “ Learn more about Laura Terech here »
Lorena Austin – LD9
Lorena Austin will be an excellent advocate for the physicians of LD9. Austin is passionate about affordable and responsible healthcare and is committed to protecting the House of Medicine in Arizona.
“The Arizona Health Care Cost Containment System (AHCCCS) is one of the best-run Medicaid programs in the nation. It is imperative that we build on that success by allowing every Arizonan to affordably buy into the program.” Learn more about Lorena Austin here »
Seth Blattman – LD9
Seth Blattman wants to see Arizona ranked #1 in health care spending. Blattman’s history of honesty and support for physicians makes him Arizona’s ideal candidate for LD9.
“Near last in the nation in education and healthcare spending. Career politicians facing ethics investigations. An economy that still lags behind other states we compete with. This isn’t what we voted for.” Learn more about Seth Blattman here »
Patty Contreras – LD12
Patty Contreras has always committed to supporting good public health policy. As an advocate for physicians, Contreras will protect the practice of medicine to support a healthy future for patients.
“I want to continue to serve the public as an elected official to help make policy that will benefit our constituents and all Arizonans.” Learn more about Patty Contreras here »
Stacey Travers – LD12
Stacey Travers will stand up for the best interest of physicians in LD12. Inspired by the toll the COVID-19 pandemic has taken on members of the health care community, Travers is fighting to support those who have kept Arizona safe.
“We need to prioritize healthcare policy here in Arizona. The pandemic has taken a human toll on our state. The state administration has failed to implement a coherent strategy and uses funds as a political football. I will continue to work for vital support for Arizona’s recovery and make healthcare accessible to all.” Learn more about Stacey Travers here »
Julie Willoughby – LD13
As an experienced ER Nurse, Julie Willoughby is well prepared to advocate for the needs of the patients and healthcare providers alike.
“Early treatment and therapeutics have always been key to good patient outcomes and care of our community members. I believe a provider should be able to prescribe the medication that their medical expertise deems appropriate for their patients.” Learn more about Julie Willoughby here »
Keith Seaman – LD16
Keith Seaman is a lifelong educator but has seen firsthand the needs of the health care community as the husband of a nurse who served patients for over 30 years in Arizona hospitals. He knows how important it is for people to have robust access to healthcare and affordable prescriptions. Seaman is Arizona’s best choice for LD16.
“Every Arizonan should have access to health care that includes affordable prescription drugs. I will help expand access to care when I am elected to the state house.” Learn more about Keith Seaman here »
Nancy Gutierrez – LD18
With a history of leadership and advocacy for a better Arizona, Nancy Gutierrez is the right call for LD18. Gutierrez is dedicated to bringing scientifically sound policy to the table that addresses the needs of physicians and patients.
“There is money in the Arizona budget to fund healthcare for women and children who can’t afford insurance.” Learn more about Nancy Gutierrez here »
Arizona State Senate
Eva Burch – LD9
Eva Burch has served the East Valley as an emergency room nurse since 2012 and has seen firsthand how disparities in access to care impact individuals, families, and communities. Eva will advocate for a more inclusive Arizona that works for all.
“Eva knows that with the right legislation and the right distribution of resources, we can create healthier communities by expanding access to preventative healthcare and lowering the cost of prescription drugs. We must also expand access to KidsCare and make sure our seniors receive the Social Security benefits they paid into throughout their lives.” Learn more about Eva Burch here »
Priya Sundareshan – LD18
Priya Sundareshan is Arizona’s best choice for LD18. Sundareshan will be an advocate for the physician community and will work hard to ensure a healthier future for the next generation of Arizonans.
“I know we need more science-based decision-making in politics, especially when it comes to preserving our beautiful state for future generations. As a mother of two small children, I want my children and all children to inherit a sustainable world and sustainable Arizona.” Learn more about Priya Sundareshan here »
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Elections 103: Maricopa County Text Updates
Have you ever wondered if your election ballot was verified and counted? Maricopa County residents can receive text updates on the status of their ballot from start to finish. Want to receive texts for the general election in November? Text the letters “EV” to 628683. You will receive a link to subscribe to text and emails from the Maricopa County Recorder’s office. Once you register, you will receive a confirmation text that you have signed up to receive alerts. Throughout election season, you can text “EV” to 628683 and receive the most recent update on your ballot.
This article was originally published by Eryn Streeter for the Arizona Medical Association (ArMA) on Friday, August 5, 2022.
Elections 102: Candidate Names on a Primary Election Ballot
Have you ever noticed that candidate names listed on a primary election ballot are not always in alphabetical order? Any ballot category that has two or more candidates running for an office will have names rotated so each candidate’s name appears equally at the top. Rotating names provides the opportunity for each candidate to be exposed to the same number of voters as their competitors. In Maricopa County, there are over 19,000 ballot styles for the primary election alone.
This article was originally published by Eryn Streeter for the Arizona Medical Association (ArMA) on Thursday, July 28, 2022.
Elections 101: Ballot Measure Numbers
Did you know the actual ballot measure number has a specific meaning about the measure? Initiatives and referendums can range from 100 all the way through 400.
Ballot measures that begin with a one are Constitutional amendments. Any proposed amendment to the Constitution must be approved by voters and can be introduced by a voter initiative or legislative referendum. Proposition 105 (1998), which prohibits the legislature from amending citizens’ initiatives, is a well-known example of a constitutional amendment. Measures that begin with a two are citizen initiatives. As you may recall, in 2020, voters had two citizen initiatives: Proposition 207 which legalized recreational marijuana, and Proposition 208 which imposed a tax surcharge on certain income brackets for education funding.
Ballot measures beginning with a three are legislative referendums. In this instance, if sufficient signatures are gathered to demonstrate that voters are not supportive of a newly enacted law, the voters will have the opportunity to override the legislature’s law. Finally, propositions beginning with a four are bond or budget override, or it is a local government issue. The Peoria Unified School District, for example, referred an override to the ballot in 2020 that would authorize a 13 percent maintenance and operations budget override continuation.
This article was originally published by Eryn Streeter for the Arizona Medical Association (ArMA) on Friday, July 22, 2022.