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 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 »
Voting continues to be the most powerful tool for democracy. Arizona.Vote makes it easy to research candidates, find polling locations, and request an early voting ballot by October 28. Visit your best voting resource today »
Not sure which district you live in? Find your legislative district here »
At the end of the day, ArMPAC’s top priority is to support candidates who support you. Aid ArMPAC in supporting physician-friendly candidates by making a contribution today »