Arizona 1st Congressional District candidates: Where they stand on issues
The Arizona Republic sent a brief questionnaire to the candidates in Arizona's 1st Congressional District, which stretches across much of northeastern Maricopa County.
Registered Democratic voters in the district will have six candidates to choose from. Republicans will have three. The candidates with the most votes in each primary will go head-to-head on the Nov. 5 general election ballot.
The 1st Congressional District covers parts of Phoenix, Scottsdale, Paradise Valley, Cave Creek and Fountain Hills in Maricopa County, along with Salt River and Fort McDowell Yavapai National tribal reservations.
Which district do you live in? Find your elected officials in Congress and other Arizona offices
The candidates' responses are below.
The candidates are listed in alphabetical order by party. Candidates David Schweikert and Robert Backie did not return answers to the questions.
Democratic candidates
Andrei Cherny
Occupation: Entrepreneur
Relevant experience: Arizona assistant attorney general, Navy Reserve officer, Arizona Democratic Party chair, White House staff, and CEO.
Age: 48
Party: Democrat
Name two big problems facing the district you’re running to represent and how you would address them if elected.
I’m running for Congress to protect our democracy and fundamental freedoms, like abortion access, and to rebuild the American dream.
As the grandson of Holocaust survivors and the son of refugees from communism, and a former Navy Intelligence officer, the fight to protect our democracy is personal to me. I will not stand by while American democracy is endangered and our freedoms are taken away — including my wife and daughter’s right to control their own body. Like a lot of immigrant families, my family struggled to make ends meet. But because of public schools and Pell Grants, I went from a kid whose parents didn’t speak much English to working in the White House and then building a business that created thousands of good-paying jobs. The ladder of opportunity has broken down for too many Arizonans and Americans and I will work to ensure we are investing in our people and their skills and spurring economic opportunity and entrepreneurship.
Which recent political figure do you most admire, and why?
To me, Terry Goddard represents the ideal of what a citizen should be. In public office and out, for over forty years, he has done the hard work of improving our state, taking on big fights even when he was alone. So many in Congress, and in public life in general, are there for “the show.” They are more interested in scoring political points than rolling up their sleeves and getting to work. Terry Goddard is the definition of a workhorse, not a show horse. From his time as a transformative mayor of Phoenix who ushered in the modern metropolis to his lonely and tireless, and ultimately successful, struggle against dark money in election, he has been indefatigable even in the face of setbacks. Nearly twenty years ago, I went to w see so ork for then-Arizona Attorney General Terry Goddard’s administration as an Assistant Attorney General charged with prosecuting fraud and public corruption and the cartels smuggling drugs, guns, and people across the border.
In meetings with the new prosecutors in his office, Terry would always tell them to let him worry about the politics and to seek justice and follow the evidence wherever it may lead. That is the kind of public servant we need more of in this state and country.
What specific actions, if any, should Congress take to make life more affordable for ordinary Arizonans?
Like millions of Arizonans, I know what it’s like to struggle to make ends meet. I grew up the son of a Teamster and a public school teacher and I watched my parents work incredibly hard and yet worry about paying their rent and affording groceries.
Congress must take action to address the affordability crisis. That starts with representing people and not corporate special interests. As gas prices went through the roof and big oil companies made record profits, my opponent, David Schweikert, voted against legislation to impose penalties on price gouging. He has consistently voted against allowing Medicare to negotiate with big drug companies to lower prices and against capping the cost of insulin at $35 a month.
But affordability is not just about rising costs, it's about wages that have been flat for a generation for the middle class and working people. We need faster economic growth that lifts all boats, a tax cut for middle class families, and to open the door to wealth-building assets for all Americans and not just the very rich.
What specific actions, if any, should Congress take to reform federal immigration policy?
As a former Arizona Assistant Attorney General, I helped take down and prosecute the border smuggling rings and cartels bringing guns, drugs, and people across our border. To deal with the border crisis, we need resources and reform. That means more Border Patrol Agents and immigration judges, but also fixing our broken asylum system and ending “catch and release.” It was outrageous that David Schweiket had the chance to do all that with the bipartisan reform package announced earlier this year but walked away because it wasn’t in his and Donald Trump’s political interest to actually address the problem.
But along with addressing the border, we also need comprehensive immigration reform that creates an orderly process for more legal immigrants, includes a pathway to citizenship, and protects the Dreamers.
What do you believe is the biggest threat to national security, and how should we handle it?
After 9/11 I enlisted to serve as a United States Navy Reserve intelligence officer. I took an oath to protect our Country from all threats foreign and domestic, and when elected to Congress — I’ll continue that oath.
Democracy is under attack — here at home and around the world. Putin’s Russia, Iran, and China are working together to undermine the forces of freedom. From Russia’s unjust invasion of Ukraine to the efforts of all three of these countries to interfere with our elections, we need to understand that we are in a battle between democracy and authoritarianism. The United States, alongside our NATO allies, must take action to support Ukraine and strengthen democratic institutions and nations around the globe.
What would you change about the US’ response to climate change, if anything?
Arizona is ground zero for the climate crisis — from record-breaking heat to drought to wildfires. I’ve been on the forefront of fighting the climate crisis for decades. In the 1990s, I worked alongside then-Vice President Al Gore in the effort to sound the alarm and mobilize action.
In 2013, I started and led a sustainability-focused alternative to Wall Street banks dedicated to helping people use their deposits and investments to fight the climate crisis. We helped move billions of dollars out of being used to finance oil and gas pipelines and drilling. I’ve seen that the debate over how to respond to the climate crisis is too often misguided. Transitioning to a clean energy economy isn’t about raising costs and crimping our economy, but an enormous source of economic opportunity and good paying jobs. Arizona should be “the Solar State” – the clean energy capital of America. We can be to clean energy jobs what Detroit is to cars or Silicon Valley is to computers. We can take on the climate crisis, while expanding our economic opportunity and creating a new industry, here in Arizona.
Do you feel confident that the 2024 election will be held securely and fairly? If not, what are your concerns?
Yes, I have confidence in our election being held securely and fairly. My opponent David Schweikert is an extreme election denier who voted to overturn the results of the 2020 election. Then he voted to protect the insurrectionists who attacked the Capitol on January 6th, opposing a bipartisan investigation into what occurred to protect our democracy.
Please take this opportunity to mention any other important issue you’dlike to discuss.
This is a pivotal moment for Arizona and America – and I know it.
Living and raising my family here in this community for nearly 20 years, I understand that we don’t have a moment to waste when it comes to building an economy that works for everyone, turning the climate crisis from a clear and present danger to Arizona to an opportunity to make us ‘the Solar State,’ and protecting our democracy and freedoms – including a woman’s right to choose – here and throughout the country.
I have a 25-year track record of fighting for our values and delivering real results. This November, we have an opportunity to do more than defeat David Schweikert, we can replace him with a leader who we can trust to fight for Arizona.
Marlene Galán-Woods
Occupation: Former broadcast journalist
Relevant experience: I am a first generation Cuban-American and 36-year resident of Arizona. As a former broadcast journalist, I held the powerful accountable and exposed corruption.
Age: 60
Party: Democrat
Name two big problems facing the district you’re running to represent and how you would address them if elected.
a. Choice and abortion access is the biggest issue that is top of mind for folks. When Roe went down, I was in the streets marching because the idea that my daughters and granddaughters have fewer rights than I did growing up is unacceptable. Now, my daughter has fewer rights than she did even a year ago. This draconian 1864 ban will hurt women across this state. Politicians have no place in an office with a patient and her doctor. We must pass the Arizona for Abortion Initiative this fall and we must elect pro-choice leaders to Congress so that every woman and girl in this country has power over her own body regardless of zip code. I am the only woman and mother in this race — no one will fight like me to protect our rights. I am proud to be endorsed by EMILYs List and Attorney General Kris Mayes, and I look forward to working alongside them to ensure that women have access to reproductive health care.
b. Democracy and voting rights — I am running because we must do everything we can to protect our democracy and access to the ballot box. That means protecting our freedom to vote from extremist MAGA Republicans that are trying to restrict it. I was proud to lead a group of former journalists in 2022 in calling for extremists like Kari Lake to stop their assault on facts and truth. I also served as the campaign chair for Secretary of State Adrian Fontes and protected our democracy while Republicans spread disinformation about our election. Everyone deserves equal safe access to the ballot box. Right now there are legislatures around the country, passing laws to suppress the vote, because they can't win without cheating. Congress needs to pass the John Lewis Voting Rights Act, so that every eligible voter can participate in our democracy without needless and discriminatory barriers.
Which recent political figure do you most admire, and why?
Attorney General Kris Mayes has been an incredible leader and always puts Arizona families first. From protecting our water to ensuring access to affordable housing, she has been a fighter for Arizonans. Now, she’s leading the charge to protect women across this state from this draconian abortion ban. I’m proud to call her a friend and honored to have her support in this race.
What specific actions, if any, should Congress take to make life more affordable for ordinary Arizonans?
American workers have helped build back our economy. Thanks to Democrats, we’ve already made great strides by capping the price of insulin, allowing drug price negotiations, and investing in green-energy jobs. However, the cost of basic necessities is still too high and many Arizonans are struggling. We can continue to invest in our infrastructure and make sure American workers have access to good paying jobs. We must ensure that the wealthy corporations pay their fair share and that we level the playing field. I’m proud to have the support of working families — from educators to firefighters or ironworkers — they know that I will fight for Arizona families.
What specific actions, if any, should Congress take to reform federal immigration policy?
As the daughter of Cuban immigrants, this issue is personal to me. We need to pass comprehensive immigration reform. For too long, both parties kicked the can down the road and now we need adults who can work across the aisle to create a humane system that keeps us safe. We have to provide a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers and get border agents the funding they need to keep our border secure.
What do you believe is the biggest threat to national security, and how should we handle it?
Putin’s Russia is the biggest global threat to peace. He has meddled in our elections, and has demonstrated that he doesn’t respect democratic countries’ sovereignty. His reckless actions don’t just impact national security, they also affect energy costs, supply chains, and America’s standing in the world. We must protect our democratic allies, and stand up to tyrants like Putin.
What would you change about the US’ response to climate change, if anything?
Climate change is a scientific fact and we must tackle this challenge responsibly. We have to do more to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and protect our access to clean water, especially here in Arizona. We also can do more to invest in clean energy jobs that will help boost our economy while tackling climate change.
Do you feel confident that the 2024 election will be held securely and fairly? If not, what are your concerns?
Yes, and we must thank all the election workers and other public officials who make sure our elections run smoothly. I’m proud to have chaired Secretary of State Adrian Fontes’ campaign in 2022. I’m also proud to have been a member of Gov. Hobbs’ transition team to ensure that her administration could do what was necessary to protect the freedom to vote from day one. We must continue to message to voters that the elections are safe and secure and we must continue to protect our democracy and ensure every American has equal, free, and safe access to the ballot box.
Please take this opportunity to mention any other important issue you’d like to discuss.
Every American deserves to live safe from gun violence, whether that’s at school, a grocery store, a parade, or at a house of worship. Here in Arizona, we know all too well the devastating impact gun violence has. Lives lost to gun violence don’t just affect the victim. It affects families, and entire communities. Lives are forever shattered. I stand with the vast majority of Americans, regardless of political party, who support common sense gun safety laws, like background checks and red flag laws. It is unacceptable for me that our children, and grandchildren, have to attend kindergarten classrooms where they must learn about their ABC’s and shooting drills. Today, gun violence is the number one cause of death for kids in America. These are preventable tragedies. We must do more to keep our communities safe and free from fear.
Andrew Horne
Occupation: Orthodontist
Relevant experience: Proud Arizona native, small business owner, father, with a doctorate and MBA, deeply connected to our community.
Age: 37
Party: Democrat
Name two big problems facing the district you’re running to represent and how you would address them if elected.
As a father and candidate, I recognize that women's rights and education are not just important issues; they are fundamental to the fabric of our society. In our district, voters understand the critical importance of ensuring equal rights and opportunities for women in every aspect of life. From access to healthcare and reproductive choices to combating gender-based violence and achieving pay equity, these are not just women's issues – they're everyone's issues.
Likewise, education stands as the cornerstone of progress and prosperity for our community. Investing in our schools means investing in our future. Our district understands that a quality education is the key to unlocking opportunities. From early childhood education to affordable higher education and job training programs, we must prioritize educational equity and excellence for all.
I am committed to championing policies that promote gender equality, protect reproductive rights, and ensure access to quality healthcare and education for all.
Which recent political figure do you most admire, and why?
I've always admired leaders who inspire hope, unity, and progress. President Barack Obama exemplifies these qualities like few others in recent memory. His remarkable ability to transcend divisive politics and bring people together around a common vision for change is something I deeply admire.
President Obama's leadership not only brought about significant policy advancements but also reignited a sense of possibility and civic engagement across the nation. His skill in mobilizing grassroots movements reminded us of the extraordinary power ordinary citizens hold to shape history.
In today's polarized political climate, we need leaders who can bridge the gaps, build consensus, and inspire us to work towards a brighter future together. President Obama's legacy serves as a powerful reminder of the transformative impact we can achieve when we come together with hope, determination, and a shared commitment to progress.
What specific actions, if any, should Congress take to make life more affordable for ordinary Arizonans?
Congress plays a pivotal role in shaping policies that directly impact the affordability of ourday-to-day lives. By taking bold action, we can create a future where every Arizonan has the opportunityto thrive and succeed.
Most Americans agree that access to quality healthcare shouldn't bankrupt families, that no one workingfull-time should struggle to make ends meet, and that education is the key to unlocking opportunities and building a better future. By advocating for policies such as lowering healthcare costs, raising the minimum wage, increasing access to affordable housing, and investing in education and job training, Congress can alleviate the financial strain on families.
My firsthand experience navigating the challenges of running a small business and raising a family equips me to fight for solutions that prioritize the well-being of our community.
What specific actions, if any, should Congress take to reform federal immigration policy?
Arizonans have seen the impacts, both positive and negative, that our current immigration systemhas on our communities. Our state's proximity to the border underscores the urgency of addressing ournation's broken immigration system. However, it also presents us with a unique opportunity to lead theway in reforming it.
Congress must work to enact policies that address the complexities of our system while upholding ournation's principles. This includes creating a pathway to citizenship for undocumented individuals, keeping families together, and providing protections for asylum seekers.
We must also invest in smart border security measures that prioritize human rights and dignity. Thismeans ending harmful policies like family separation and ensuring that border enforcement is conducted in a humane and responsible manner.
We can build a more just and effective immigration system that strengthens our communities and honors the contributions of immigrants to our economy and our national identity.
What do you believe is the biggest threat to national security, and how should we handle it?
I am deeply concerned about the rise of domestic terrorism, exemplified by the alarming increasein hate crimes and the growing societal division within our nation. This insidious threat strikes at the veryheart of our democracy and poses a grave danger to our national security.
We must confront this menace head-on by prioritizing efforts to combat hate and extremism in all itsforms. This includes investing in community-based programs that promote tolerance, diversity, andunderstanding. We must also strengthen our law enforcement capabilities to better identify and thwartacts of domestic terrorism before they occur.
Furthermore, we must address the root causes of hate and division by tackling systemic inequalities andpromoting social justice initiatives that uplift marginalized communities. By fostering a culture of inclusivity and mutual respect, we can build a stronger, more united nation that is resilient against the forces of hatred and extremism.
What would you change about the US’ response to climate change, if anything?
We must expedite our transition to renewable energy sources to combat the urgent threat ofclimate change. Our beautiful state is already feeling the impacts of a changing climate, from prolongeddroughts to more extreme heatwaves. It's imperative that we take decisive action now to protect ourenvironment and our economy.
Investing in renewable energy not only reduces our carbon footprint but also creates new opportunities for job growth and economic prosperity. Arizona has vast potential for solar and wind energy production, and by harnessing these resources, we can power our homes and businesses while reducing our reliance on fossil fuels.
Additionally, we must implement effective measures to limit greenhouse gas emissions. A universalcap-and-trade program would set a limit on overall emissions and allow companies to buy and sellpermits to emit carbon. This market-based approach encourages innovation and efficiency while ensuring that we stay within our environmental limits.
Do you feel confident that the 2024 election will be held securely and fairly? If not, what are your concerns?
Yes, I am confident that the 2024 election will be held securely and fairly. Our democracy thriveson the principles of transparency, accountability, and the sacred right of every eligible citizen to cast their vote free from interference or intimidation. With advancements in technology, robust electioninfrastructure, and a commitment to upholding the integrity of our electoral process, I believe we have the necessary safeguards in place to ensure a fair and secure election. I stand firm in my dedication toprotecting the rights of all voters and ensuring that every voice is heard. Together, we will uphold thedemocratic values that make our nation strong and resilient.
Please take this opportunity to mention any other important issue you’d like to discuss.
As a parent and a concerned citizen, the issue of gun violence is more than a matter of policy; it’sa deeply personal experience. My own daughter recently survived an active-shooter situation, an eventthat shook me to my core and reinforced my commitment to ensuring the safety and security of everyindividual in our community.
Leading the charge for comprehensive gun safety measures, including universal background checks andclosing loopholes, isn't just a political stance for me — it's a moral imperative.
Every person deserves to feel safe in their schools, workplaces, and communities. By championing thesemeasures, we can take meaningful steps toward preventing senseless tragedies and building a futurewhere our children can thrive without fear. I will tirelessly advocate for common-sense gun safetylegislation because I refuse to accept a reality where our loved ones are at risk simply by going abouttheir daily lives.
Kurt Kroemer
Occupation: U.S. congressional candidate (AZ-01)
Relevant experience: Investigator, U.S. Congress (top secret clearance); COO - Make-A-Wish Foundation of America; CEO - American Red Cross (AZ/NM); COO - Humanity United; City Councilman - Bowie, MD
Age: 63
Party: Democrat
Name two big problems facing the district you’re running to represent and how you would address them if elected.
One of the major problems facing our congressional district, and our nation, are attempts to take away the fundamental rights of our citizens. This includes women’s reproductive rights, access to the ballot box, LGBTQ+ protections, and laws that take away rights to unionize. To address these issues, I would work to pass legislation, including: 1) Women’s Health Protection Act establishing a nation-wide right to abortion access 2) Freedom to Vote Act providing nationwide standards on access to voting 3) Equality Act providing protections for the LGBTQ+ community, and 4) Protecting the Right to Organize Act providing further protections around unionizing.
A second problem facing our Congressional district is affordable housing. To address this issue I would, among other things, work to pass legislation that would increase federal funding to homebuilders for affordable housing, including: 1) the Low Income Housing Tax Credit and 2) the New Neighborhood Homes Tax Credit.
Which recent political figure do you most admire, and why?
I admire Michigan Governor Gretchen Whitmer for several reasons, including: 1) her courageous and unwavering defense of democracy during the 2020 presidential election 2) her focus on working families and children, including legislation that now provides free breakfast and lunch for every public school student and expanded access to low cost child care 3) attracting good-paying jobs in her State while working alongside, and not against, unions 4) expanding access to Medicaid 5) lowering costs for higher education 6) signing the State’s Reproductive Health Act to provide protections for women’s reproductive health. She has done all of this without raising taxes on working families and has shown a high level of integrity and a moral compass that focuses on making lives better for those working to make a better life for themselves and their families. She does not seek the limelight but, instead, focuses on results.
What specific actions, if any, should Congress take to make life more affordable for ordinary Arizonans?
I have advocated for many policy prescriptions that Congress could enact that, over time, pay for themselves while also making life more affordable for Arizonans. This includes, among other policies: 1) increasing subsidies and access to the Affordable Care Act provisions to ensure affordable and accessible healthcare to all 2) expanding Head Start programs 3) implementing free and reduced meals at public schools 4) establishing universal pre-K education 5) increasing subsidies to homebuilders to build affordable housing 6) increasing the federal minimum wage, and 7) expanding the Child Earned Income Tax Credit. Additionally, expanding on the provisions in the Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act, the CHIPS and Science Act and the Inflation Reduction Act would further increase the number of good-paying jobs for Arizonans. Investing in our children and families is what fiscal responsibility looks like for our state and nation.
What specific actions, if any, should Congress take to reform federal immigration policy?
I have proposed several actions Congress can take to reform our immigration policy. These include: 1) increasing the number of immigration judges, staff and courts to expedite asylum claims 2) pass the U.S. Citizenship Act to create a pathway to citizenship for Dreamers and those under temporary protected status 3) reform the legal immigration system to address the backlog of green card applications 4) expand use of technology along the border, including modern screening technologies at ports of entry 5) move immigration courts from the Department of Justice to the Judicial Branch to mitigate politicization of this issue 6) provide expedited work visas for immigrants, asylum seekers and refugees, and 7) increasing aid to successful programs in specific countries to address the root causes of migration (e.g., U.S. Agency for International Development’s anti-violence initiatives).
What do you believe is the biggest threat to national security, and how should we handle it?
The biggest threat to our national security is the rise of authoritarianism at home and abroad. We now have one of our two major political parties openly advocating against the rule of law, an independent judiciary, a free press, and free and fair elections. GOP leaders are now embracing and parroting the propaganda of despots such as Putin, Xi, Orban and Erdogan. Our individual freedoms have been under assault from the schoolhouse to Trump’s White House.
We battle these dark forces through, among other things: 1) strengthening our elections through automatic and same-day voter registration, requiring early and mail-in voting, protecting against unlawful voter purges, banning partisan gerrymandering and curbing dark money from undisclosed sources 2) monetarily penalizing social media platforms that knowingly amplify violent rhetoric 3) increasing funding for our diplomatic activities, and 4) using technology to fight against disinformation and propaganda coming from these authoritarian regimes.
What would you change about the US’ response to climate change, if anything?
The world’s response to climate change has been woefully inadequate, as evidenced by the lack of progress in major polluting countries such as China and India, which account for 40% of the world’s carbon dioxide emissions. However, President Biden’s actions to address this challenge have been notable. His signature climate achievement, the Inflation Reduction Act of 2022, invested billions of dollars in clean energy, electric vehicles, and clean manufacturing jobs. As a result, the U.S. may be on track by 2030 to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions by 50% from 2005 levels (meeting Paris Agreement standards).
Yet more must be done. This includes: 1) requiring all new passenger vehicles to be emission free by 2035 2) ramping up clean energy manufacturing 3) setting emission standards for specific industries 4) scaling up carbon dioxide removal 5) putting in place enforceable emission fees, and 6) achieving 100% clean electricity by 2035.
Do you feel confident that the 2024 election will be held securely and fairly? If not, what are your concerns?
I have confidence in the people who oversee our elections and the observers and poll workers who dedicate their time and energy in service to our democracy. Thus, the elections themselves will, in all likelihood, be both secure and fair. However, as evidenced by their actions in 2020, this does not guarantee that nefarious attempts by the Republican Party to try and overthrow such an election would not occur. Former President Trump, Senator Tim Scott and others have already said they won’t commit to accepting the results of the upcoming election and this, of course, plays right into the hands of authoritarians around the world who want to discredit democracy in general and the U.S. electoral process specifically. Our democracy is in grave danger and it’s the single most important reason I am running for Congress to defeat the election denying MAGA GOP extremist David Schweikert.
Please take this opportunity to mention any other important issue you’dlike to discuss.
I am deeply concerned about the individual freedoms being taken away, or at risk of being taken away, at an alarming and disturbing rate by alarming and disturbing people. This includes the right to reproductive healthcare, the right to love and marry who you want, the right to be who you want to be, the right to read the books you want, the right to be safe from gun violence, the right to organize and the right to economic security.
These are the great issues of our time — do we choose kindness, empathy, and caring or fear, anger, and resentment? Do we choose helping people up or pushing them down? Do we choose democracy or authoritarianism? I know my choice — its light over darkness, love over hate and grace over retribution. That has been my life’s work, and I will continue that calling until my last breath.
Conor O'Callaghan
Occupation: Managing Director, BTIG
Relevant experience: U.S. House Page, Financial Executive, B.S. Economics, B.A.S. Engineering, and an M.P.A. (all from UPenn); J.D. from Fordham Law School.
Age: 40
Party: Democrat
Name two big problems facing the district you’re running to represent and how you would address them if elected.
The first issue is abortion. As a lifelong Democrat, this issue has always been important to me. It became even more personal after my wife’s experience with a D&E procedure after a miscarriage, a procedure now considered illegal in some states. In a post-Roe era, this procedure could soon be out of reach for millions. We need to codify Roe; the government simply has no place in a person’s doctor’s office or bedroom. Regardless of political affiliation, this impacts the women in your life. We must defend their rights.
The second issue is the economy. This is a small business-driven district and we need to make sure we are fighting for local businesses and ensuring the tax code doesn’t disadvantage them in favor of large corporations. We need to close tax loopholes that starve us of revenue and expand workforce housing. Small businesses are the lifeblood of our district and deserve the right tools to thrive.
Which recent political figure do you most admire, and why?
I admire State Senator Christine Marsh. Senator Marsh was my AP English teacher at Chaparral High School. She personifies public service and certainly instilled that in her students; she has numerous former students now working in politics, are elected officials, and are running for office. What I most admire about Senator Marsh is that despite adversity — be it personal or political — she always does the right thing. More of our public officials need to adhere to that same principle and I am committed to honoring it when I am in Congress.
What specific actions, if any, should Congress take to make life more affordable for ordinary Arizonans?
With nearly two decades of experience on Wall Street, I’m uniquely equipped to advance smart economic policy. While AZ01 is the most affluent district in the state, price gouging and an unfair tax system have made life harder for many families. We need stronger federal laws that allow us to combat corporate price gouging. I also support the expansion of the Earned Income Tax Credit, as I know it will provide greater financial assistance and support to low-income and middle-class families.
What specific actions, if any, should Congress take to reform federal immigration policy?
As an Irish immigrant who moved to this district when I was four years old and was fortunate enough to realize the American Dream, I will lead the charge to pass common-sense solutions for federal immigration policy. People like immigration, they don’t like chaos. Unfortunately, this issue has been allowed to morph into a political football. We need a 21st-century simplified path to legal entry, long-term federal funding for increased border technology, and foreign policy that transcends Presidential administrations and Congressional turnover. We need to expand the programs that allow for virtual asylum applications so people aren’t flooding the border and we need to strategically invest in economic development for countries in Central and South America so that people don’t feel a need to flee and come here illegally. Notably, my legislation will prioritize a pathway to citizenship for DACA recipients so that both our communities and our economy benefit.
What do you believe is the biggest threat to national security, and how should we handle it?
Authoritarianism abroad and at home poses the biggest risk to our national security. It breeds the kind of extremism we saw metastasize on January 6th. Across the oceans, our adversaries are testing the resolve of American democracy and the world order. We cannot allow Ukraine to be conquered by Russia. Losing Ukraine would signal to the Putins of the world that if they just wait us out, eventually, they will get what they want. We cannot live in a world where Russia, China, or Iran writes the rules. Therefore, we must support Ukraine and Taiwan and educate Americans and wary countries around the world about why it is in our national security interest to protect democracies everywhere.
What would you change about the US’ response to climate change, if anything?
We need a Manhattan Project for water. In Congress, my priority will be solving Arizona’s water crisis as it relates to climate change. We need to be investing in future innovation, not simply conserving. Just a fraction of the money the U.S. Government spends on disaster relief would help us solve our water woes in the near term. The price of desalination pales in comparison to the price tag for storm recovery. The government has the money to invest in our state. We should be leaning into high-efficiency watering systems, such as N-Drip, for agricultural use.
Do you feel confident that the 2024 election will be held securely and fairly? If not, what are your concerns?
Yes.
Please take this opportunity to mention any other important issue you’dlike to discuss.
As a lifelong Democrat and a proud father of three boys, I’m committed to advancing a strong paid family leave program in Congress. We need to have at least 10 paid weeks of leave for new parents, especially mothers. We all know there's an urgent need for universal pre-K, a fundamental aspect of ensuring every child has access to quality education from the beginning. To support this effort, I am focused on expanding the Employer-Provided Child Care Credit and incentivizing companies to provide childcare for their employees’ families.
Amish Shah
Occupation: Emergency physician
Relevant experience: Member of the Arizona House of Representatives (2019-2024)
Age: 46
Party: Democrat
Name two big problems facing the district you’re running to represent and how you would address them if elected.
I have knocked on thousands of doors to listen to voters over the last seven years. Two of their biggest concerns include healthcare and education.
I have worked as an E.R. doctor for 20 years, and I currently practice at the Mayo Clinic in the heart of our district. Americans pay more for healthcare than any other country, and we leave people uninsured. Even with insurance, patients face medical debt and bureaucratic hassle. I support universal coverage and lower costs, including for prescriptions.
I also believe in fully funding Arizona’s public schools, including early childhood education. Arizona ranks in the bottom tier for teacher pay and per-pupil expenditure.
I am the only Democrat in this race who has won an election in Arizona. In the State House, I was able to pass bills to address these issues in a bipartisan manner, and I hope to do the same in Washington.
Which recent political figure do you most admire, and why?
President Barack Obama comes to mind immediately. Simply put, I felt that he cared about all Americans, regardless of policy differences. He was thoughtful, and he led with hope and positivity. He sought out the perspectives of those who disagreed with him to develop a thorough understanding of the problems facing our nation. He famously forged a working relationship with John Boehner, the former Republican Speaker of the House.
He started his career as a grassroots organizer and helped people in his community advocate for themselves. I believe we can return to working with each other instead of against each other to build an enduring movement for meaningful bipartisan engagement.
What specific actions, if any, should Congress take to make life more affordable for ordinary Arizonans?
We can start by increasing the availability of affordable housing. Construction of more housing units can lower the high rent costs in the Valley, as demand far exceeds supply here. I would support federal incentives for affordable housing projects and simplification of approval processes for new developments in Arizona. These policies would in turn reduce homelessness.
As above, healthcare costs are also a significant monthly expense for most households. Federal action can lower the cost of coverage and pharmaceuticals, and I intend to make that a priority.
Finally, many working or low-income households struggle with the cost and availability of childcare and caregivers for seniors, the disabled, and vulnerable adults. We should offer greater support for working parents and those who cannot easily care for themselves.
What specific actions, if any, should Congress take to reform federal immigration policy?
My parents are immigrants from India, and I believe America benefits from legal immigration.
However, the Southern border is in crisis, and we must secure the border immediately. We have three main groups of people to address: First, we can expedite permits for seasonal workers. The Arizona business community benefits from their economic contributions. Second, we have a surge of asylum seekers. Many are legitimately fleeing danger at home, but many are manipulating the process. The overwhelming volume of arrivals exceeds our processing capacity, and we must sharply curtail system abuse.
Finally, a small number are engaged in the drug trade or human trafficking. These individuals should be prosecuted or deported. Border Patrol must have the resources to remove threats to the public.
The recent bipartisan border bill was a good first step toward reform. I would add to it a pathway forward for DACA recipients and Dreamers.
What do you believe is the biggest threat to national security, and how should we handle it?
On the international stage, Vladimir Putin's actions are alarming, particularly his willingness to escalate nuclear tensions and devalue democratic norms. His aggressions destabilize regional security and threaten global peace. Putin’s government has also played a central role in the massive spread of disinformation, which interferes in public discourse and undermines societal trust.
In response, the United States should present a united front with our NATO allies through diplomacy and economic sanctions to counteract Putin's ambitions. We must maintain a hardline stance against his destructive war effort in Ukraine as well.
What would you change about the US’ response to climate change, if anything?
Climate change is a threat to Arizona and the planet, and I support federal action to conserve the natural world for our descendants. In just my lifetime, we have witnessed the acceleration of extreme weather events, loss of wildlife habitat, extinction of countless species, and a significant threat to Arizona’s water supply from dwindling snowpack in the Rocky Mountains. I would support federal policies that reduce carbon emissions over the long term to address the root cause.
Arizona has the potential to harness solar power in a way that no other state can. We can choose to make investments into our infrastructure to generate cheap clean energy, reduce costs for consumers, and provide high-paying jobs for Arizonans. I would work to bring federal dollars to our state for these types of projects.
Do you feel confident that the 2024 election will be held securely and fairly? If not, what are your concerns?
I am confident that the 2024 election will be held securely and fairly, especially here in Arizona. We have a long history of conducting free and fair elections overseen by dedicated bipartisan poll workers. Arizonans benefit from a variety of voting methods, including mail-in ballots.
Those that cast doubt on our election outcomes without evidence erode trust in our democratic process.
I dedicated my time in the legislature to defeating every bill that attempted to create unnecessary obstacles to voting or limit voters’ ability to participate legally.
Please take this opportunity to mention any other important issue you’d like to discuss.
Many Americans feel that our country is too divided. Some even express fear and distrust of their neighbors. Many suffer from isolation and loneliness. I have attempted to tackle this head-on by hitting the pavement and speaking with constituents directly, regardless of party affiliation. Our campaign is centered on individual engagement, door by door.
Our grassroots approach has paid off. I have passed 12 bills into law, more than any Arizona Democrat in over a decade. I have earned 22 local endorsements and dozens of awards for the quality of service, including 2022 Women’s Health Champion / Legislator of the Year for protecting reproductive rights.
Finally, I pride myself in being one of Arizona’s foremost legislators for pets and wildlife. I worked to protect animals with bills to limit late-night fireworks, ban cat declawing, and sourcing from puppy mills. I hope to do the same in Congress.
Arizona election 2024: Here's everything to know about registering and voting
Republican candidates
Some Republican candidates in this district have not yet responded to the questions. Their answers will be added if received before the primary election.
Robert Backie
Candidate Robert Backie, a businessperson, did not return Q&A responses.
Kim George
Occupation: Retired federal law enforcement and corporate global security investigator
Relevant experience: Twenty-three years in federal law enforcement, arresting sex traffickers and corrupt politicians. Five years with two Fortune 500s investigating economic espionage and theft of IP.
Age: 54
Party: Republican
Name two big problems facing the district you’re running to represent and how you would address them if elected.
The two biggest issues that District 1 faces are the unsecured border and the out-of-control economy. Over 10 million people have crossed the border illegally under the Biden administration and it only took one illegal immigrant to kill Laken Riley and Rachel Morin.
The current administration has failed to secure our border and has failed to protect the American people. We need to enforce the immigration laws that are already on the books and shut down this border crisis, before it's too late. The second issue is our failing economy.
While Congressman Schweikert touts "fiscal responsibility", he voted to approve Biden's budget, voted to raise the debt ceiling and recently voted to send billions more to Ukraine, instead of protecting our borders. When the government prints more money it causes inflation, which is essentially another tax on our citizens. We need leaders who aren't afraid to make tough decisions that benefit the American people first, and I will be that leader.
Which recent political figure do you most admire, and why?
While her leadership was over three decades ago, I have always admired the Iron Lady, Margaret Thatcher, because of her strength and resilience. She believed in free markets with restrained government, and was successful in steering the United Kingdom away from socialism.
In a May 1988 address to the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland, she offered a theological justification for her ideas on capitalism and the market economy and argued that politics and Christianity had become polarized, and the belief was that the two were separate, when in fact, they were not.
She believed that most Christians regarded it as their personal duty to help their fellow man, which is what led many Christians get into politics. Their belief system stemmed not from the social, but from the spiritual side. Thatcher had heart, wit and drive, which describes me to the core. “Power is like being a lady ... if you have to tell people you are, you aren't."
What specific actions, if any, should Congress take to make life more affordable for ordinary Arizonans?
Around 60% of Arizonans say this state is headed in the wrong direction. Making every day citizens' lives more affordable starts with lessening the impact of inflation, which is a result of wasteful spending and the government printing more money.
We need to cut taxes, get back to "pre-covid" spending and maintain a reasonable corporate tax rate, so businesses have more money to hire employees and invest in a stable work force. Congressman Schweikert wants to cut Social Security and said in a recent interview that in the future "social security will be there, there will just be less of it." In Congress I will fight to protect our Social Security, so no senior in this country has to worry about having their benefits cut.
What specific actions, if any, should Congress take to reform federal immigration policy?
Immigration and the border crisis are two separate issues. Immigrants are what built this country and that's not up for debate, but ignoring the rule of law and allowing people to flood into this country illegally, is unacceptable. With over 10 million people crossing the border illegally under the Biden administration, Illegal Immigrants are putting stress on our hospitals, our schools and our financial system, and it's taking a toll on everyday Americans.
We must enforce the laws already on the books, secure our border and send the millions of people who came here illegally, back to their home countries. We must stop allowing people to circumvent the legitimate asylee process, or it will lead to chaos and the destruction of our country, and the rule of law.
What do you believe is the biggest threat to national security, and how should we handle it?
The Border is the biggest threat to our National Security for many reasons. Illegal immigration, human trafficking, drug trafficking and child sex trafficking, are among those reasons. The cartels are running the southern border and innocent people are suffering as a result. The threat from foreign adversaries is my biggest concern. Just last month, 3,500 Chinese nationals entered our country illegally, via the southern border.
We do not have a proper vetting mechanism in-place to determine what criminal history these individuals have and it's irresponsible for this administration to allow entry to individuals without proper vetting. If we don't seal the border and stop the illegal entry from individuals from over 160 countries, I fear that something terrible will happen to our country.
What would you change about the U.S.’ response to climate change, if anything?
Like many Americans, I want to protect our climate; however, there needs to be a balance between using natural resources and renewable energy. When I owned an electric vehicle, I loved driving it and not having to go to the gas station, but to push an agenda to get rid of gas-powered vehicles in the next 10 years, like California is doing, is not feasible. Americans want choices.
We need to protect our environment and our freedoms, but we do not want something forced on us. I believe embracing nuclear energy also plays a big part in protecting our environment, as well as renewables like solar and wind. I'll support this by voting for common-sense climate legislation and not the radical Green New Deal.
Do you feel confident that the 2024 election will be held securely and fairly? If not, what are your concerns?
Like almost 50% of Independent voters and 70% of Republican voters, I have concerns with our elections. I personally volunteered at the Election Audit in 2020, and as a trained investigator, I can tell you I saw significant manipulation with our elections. Fortunately, some progress has been made in individual states, which will make it harder for manipulation by nefarious actors.
I'm often asked if I have concerns with our elections, why am I running for Congress. The answer is simple, if we don't do anything, we can't change anything. As a voter, the one thing I'll remember when turning in my ballot was the recent vote that just took place in Congress.
Every congressman who voted "nay" on the SAVE act, was a Democrat. The SAVE act ensures that only American citizens can vote in our elections and the Democrats voted against this. Ask yourself why and keep this in mind when you vote this year.
Please take this opportunity to mention any other important issue you’d like to discuss.
I want to thank the Arizona Republic for this opportunity to tell you more about my positions and why I'm running for the United States Congress. I'm running to represent "We the People" and my platform is National Security. I believe in securing the border, stopping illegal immigration, preserving Social Security for United States Citizens, and cutting government spending. We've got to put America First and we must take action on these things before it's too late. Thank you again and God Bless.
David Schweikert
U.S. Rep. David Schweikert, R-Ariz., did not return Q&A responses. Schweikert has served seven terms in U.S. Congress.
This article originally appeared on Arizona Republic: Arizona 1st Congressional District election: A look at the candidates
