A Full-Circle Moment

“This is a full-circle moment,” Cano said in prepared remarks after being sworn in by Pima County Superior Court Judge Danelle Liwski. “Fifteen years ago, I entered this very hearing room as a 14-year-old intern in the county’s summer youth employment [program]… Today I bring that same energy, experience and devotion to this new role.”

Cano’s appointment underscores not only a personal narrative of political ascension but also a strategic selection by the Board to install a seasoned progressive at a critical juncture in the county’s governance. District 5, a solidly Democratic seat stretching across central Tucson, will now be represented by one of the most prominent left-leaning figures to emerge from the Arizona Legislature in the last decade.

A Stalwart of the Arizona House

Andrés Cano was first elected to the Arizona House of Representatives in 2018 and quickly emerged as one of its most vocal progressive voices. Representing Legislative District 3 in Tucson, Cano’s leadership style fused advocacy with coalition-building. He served as House Minority Leader from 2021 to 2023, steering Democrats through a tumultuous legislative period marked by partisan tensions, pandemic recovery debates, and a growing focus on public education, reproductive rights, and border issues.

His legislative record includes support for increasing school funding, protecting voting rights, and championing environmental sustainability — priorities closely aligned with the values of his district and the broader progressive movement in Arizona. Though outnumbered in the Republican-controlled House, Cano often used the minority leader’s platform to elevate marginalized voices and push back against conservative initiatives.

In interviews during his tenure, Cano consistently emphasized the importance of inclusive policymaking. “We have to govern in a way that reflects all of Arizona — not just the voices that dominate the chamber floor,” he said in 2022 during a floor debate over proposed voting restrictions. His rhetoric was passionate but grounded, shaped by both lived experience and strategic savvy.

Resignation and Harvard Interlude

In 2023, Cano stepped down from the Legislature to pursue a Master’s in Public Administration at Harvard University’s John F. Kennedy School of Government. It was a move that surprised many political observers but reflected Cano’s desire to deepen his policy expertise and prepare for what many anticipated would be the next stage of his public career. While in Cambridge, he also worked closely with municipal officials back home, continuing his work as a government affairs liaison for the City of Tucson.

Those connections and his expanded policy toolkit now return to Pima County, where he will help shape decisions on transportation, housing, and economic development — all hot-button issues in a rapidly growing and diversifying region.

Unanimous Democratic Support

The Board of Supervisors voted 3-0 in favor of Cano’s appointment. Republican Supervisor Steve Christy, the lone conservative on the board, was absent from the meeting. Still, Democratic Supervisors Jen Allen (District 3), Matt Heinz (District 2), and Board Chair Rex Scott (District 1) offered resounding praise.

“I think we need somebody in this seat who can hit the ground running with experience around the Board of Supervisors,” Allen said as she introduced the motion.

Heinz, who seconded the motion, emphasized Cano’s preparedness: “What this board must do is seek someone who is ready at this moment with as much knowledge as possible.”

Scott went a step further: “When I interviewed Andrés, it was as if I was engaged in dialog with someone who was already a supervisor, such was the extent of his extensive knowledge and obvious preparation.”

The appointment process had drawn six applicants — a diverse mix that included educators, engineers, and civic leaders. While many were praised for their commitment to public service, Cano’s combination of political acumen, local roots, and government experience ultimately made him the favored choice.

District 5: A Strategic Stronghold

District 5 covers a broad swath of Tucson, from the West Side near Tucson Mountain Park to the East Side’s Wilmot Road precincts. With nearly half of registered voters identifying as Democrats and only 15% as Republicans, the district has long been a bastion for progressive politics. It was formerly represented by Supervisor Richard Elías, a beloved figure in Tucson’s Latino and labor communities and one of Cano’s early mentors.

Cano’s connection to Elías and the district is more than symbolic. As a high school intern, Cano worked in the District 5 office and eventually joined the staff full-time in 2012. His understanding of the community is deeply personal — shaped not just by policy debates but by years spent fielding constituent concerns, attending neighborhood meetings, and navigating the complexities of local governance.

A Role Beyond the Boardroom

As part of his new role, Cano will also replace Grijalva as the county’s representative on the Visit Tucson Board of Directors. In a separate 4-0 vote, the Board appointed him to that post — a nod to his prior work with tourism and city infrastructure planning during his time as a legislative liaison for Tucson.

Meanwhile, Supervisor Heinz will represent the county on the Regional Transportation Authority Board as it crafts a new 20-year plan. The board’s current composition hints at an ambitious era ahead for Pima County — one focused on smart infrastructure, coordinated planning, and inclusive representation.

A Community-Focused Agenda

In his remarks, Cano signaled a clear focus on community-driven leadership. “My journey has always been about community… District 5 raised me, and I’m ready to return that gift by doing what I’ve always done: Show up, listen, and get to work.”

While his immediate policy goals remain to be fully outlined, observers expect Cano to prioritize affordable housing, economic resilience, environmental sustainability, and social equity — themes consistent with his legislative history. His ability to navigate county bureaucracy, coupled with his experience in both policymaking and community outreach, positions him as a potentially transformative figure on the Board.

Looking Ahead to 2026

Cano’s appointment is interim; he will serve through the 2026 midterm elections, when a special election will determine who holds the seat through 2028. Most analysts believe Cano will run to keep the seat, and his name recognition, donor base, and track record give him a clear early advantage.

His entry into the Board comes as Southern Arizona braces for a wave of political turnover. With Rep. Raúl Grijalva’s passing and Adelita Grijalva’s bid to succeed him in the U.S. House, the region’s progressive leadership is undergoing a generational shift. Cano, once seen as part of the “next generation,” now steps into the role of experienced hand — a rare figure who has both deep grassroots origins and high-level policy credentials.

The Broader Implications

Cano’s appointment speaks to more than just Pima County’s present — it hints at the evolving future of Democratic politics in Arizona. As the state increasingly finds itself in the national spotlight, local figures like Cano are poised to shape not only regional outcomes but potentially statewide trajectories. His experience at the state Capitol, his education at Harvard, and his ties to Tucson’s civic infrastructure make him a compelling player in Arizona’s next political chapter.

Whether he remains in county government or seeks higher office in the future, Andrés Cano’s return to public service reflects the increasing alignment of personal story and public impact — a testament to what local politics can still be when done right.

The post Andrés Cano Joins Pima County Board of Supervisors After Years in the Arizona House, Bringing Full-Circle Experience and Progressive Vision. appeared first on Saguaro Signal.

The lawsuit, filed by America First Legal (AFL) on behalf of EZAZ.org and naturalized citizen Yvonne Cahill, argued that counties were not adhering to state laws requiring proof of citizenship for voting in state and local elections.​

As a result of the settlement, all counties are now collaborating with the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to verify the citizenship status of these registrants.​

Arizona law mandates that individuals provide documentary proof of citizenship (DPOC) to vote in state and local elections. Those who register without DPOC are designated as “federal-only” voters, eligible to vote only in federal elections. County recorders are required to perform monthly checks to confirm the citizenship status of these voters.​

The AFL lawsuit contended that county officials were not utilizing available resources to verify citizenship status, leading to the current statewide effort to address the issue.​

This development underscores Arizona’s ongoing efforts to ensure election integrity by maintaining accurate voter rolls and complying with state laws regarding voter eligibility.​

For more information on voter registration requirements in Arizona, please refer to the Arizona Secretary of State’s Voter Registration Instructions.​

The post ​All 15 Arizona Counties Begin Removing Noncitizens from Voter Rolls Following Lawsuit Settlement​ appeared first on Saguaro Signal.

The firebrand Republican representative from Legislative District 17 officially filed her Statement of Interest to run for re-election in the 2026 cycle. In a post shared Tuesday morning on X (formerly Twitter), Keshel declared:

She followed the announcement with a call to action, urging supporters to sign her nomination petition to secure a spot on the primary ballot. For a legislator known for her no-nonsense approach to liberty, parental rights, and election integrity, it’s no surprise she’s charging into this cycle with the same grassroots energy that got her elected in the first place.

LD17, which covers parts of southern Arizona, has been a focal point in recent battles over state sovereignty, COVID-era mandates, and education transparency. Representative Keshel—who gained national attention under her maiden name Rachel Jones—has made headlines for challenging bureaucratic overreach and refusing to fold to the political pressure of the Phoenix establishment.

She also made waves by aligning herself with constitutional conservatives and election reform advocates—sometimes ruffling feathers, always standing her ground.

What’s Next?

With her re-election campaign now official, the question isn’t whether Rachel Keshel is running—it’s whether anyone in the district has the grassroots base or backbone to seriously challenge her. Her name recognition and deeply loyal support among LD17 conservatives put her in a commanding position early.

The filing also signals that Keshel’s not afraid of the new Arizona political landscape—one where party insiders, grassroots activists, and outside influencers are constantly jockeying for control. If her record is any indication, she won’t be asking for permission.

As the 2026 primary season takes shape, Rachel Keshel will likely double down on her core messages: liberty first, parental rights, medical freedom, and an Arizona that answers to its people—not to lobbyists or federal overreach.

She’s in. And she’s not mincing words.

Photo taken by Gage Skidmore

The post Rachel (Jones) Keshel Launches 2026 Re-Election Campaign in LD17: “It’s Official” appeared first on Saguaro Signal.

That’s the kind of debut most political operatives dream about. Karrin Taylor Robson has re-entered Arizona’s gubernatorial ring with a high-octane fundraising performance, pulling in over $850,000 since launching her campaign—an early show of strength that proves she’s serious about round two.

But the field she’s walking into is no walkover.

A NicoPAC poll released April 8 shows Congressman Andy Biggs dominating the GOP gubernatorial primary with 65.55% support. Robson trails significantly at 15.12%, with roughly 14.85% undecided. It’s a lopsided early snapshot, but the same poll also shows over 40% undecided in the AG race and 50%+ in the Treasurer race—meaning plenty of voters still aren’t locked in.

Robson’s backers point to her financial firepower as proof she’s built for the long haul. This isn’t just about flash fundraising—it’s about building infrastructure, owning airwaves, and quietly converting those 14.85% undecided voters while Biggs basks in name recognition.

From a market-watch perspective, the strategy makes sense. Robson’s brand—pragmatic, professional, business-aligned—tends to resonate with suburban and Sun Belt voters fatigued by cable-news theatrics. She’s betting that Biggs’ front-runner status won’t hold once debates heat up and ballots get real.

And in a state where GOP primaries can swing wildly in the final months, $850K buys a lot of oxygen.

The takeaway? Robson is far from out. If anything, she’s just opened her tab—and Arizona’s political investors are already paying attention.

Photo taken by Gage Skidmore

The post Karrin Taylor Robson Raises $850K in 6 Weeks, Signals Long-Game Play Despite Biggs’ Poll Lead appeared first on Saguaro Signal.

The first resolution expresses a formal vote of no confidence in Supervisor Galvin as Chair of the Board, citing what the committee alleges to be a “lack of care, compassion and self-control,” and a failure to uphold the standards of public office. Galvin is accused of denying public comment, gaveling out meetings without proper protocol, and failing to collaborate with other county officials—particularly newly elected County Recorder Justin Heap.

The resolution also includes claims that Galvin unjustly denied a disabled individual’s right to speak, placed public comment at the end of meetings to discourage participation, and walked out of a meeting without a vote or motion—actions the committee says show a “blatant disregard” for the principles of governance.

Among the more specific demands, the committee calls for Galvin’s removal as Chair and the election of a new chair who “is a servant of the People,” as well as the immediate reinstatement of the county’s previous Shared Services Agreement, which Galvin allegedly failed to implement in collaboration with Recorder Heap.

In a second resolution, the committee shifts its focus to what it calls an “apparent malfeasance” by the previous Recorder, accusing that official—whose name is not explicitly mentioned—of removing access to vital administrative tools prior to leaving office. The resolution suggests this action, allegedly taken in coordination with the Board of Supervisors, was intended to “undermine and impede” the functioning of the Recorder’s office under Heap.

Calling it an “affront to the democratic process,” the District 4 Republican Committee demands the immediate reinstatement of all tools, systems, and resources required by the new Recorder to fulfill his statutory duties. The resolution also urges an investigation into the circumstances surrounding the alleged sabotage.

The Broader Implications

The double-resolution signals rising intra-party tensions and a brewing power struggle within one of Arizona’s most politically active counties. While many see these resolutions as a stand for accountability, critics may interpret them as a partisan flex—or even retaliation—against perceived disloyalty or bureaucratic friction.

At the center is a question of governance: are Arizona officials prioritizing public service and institutional continuity, or are personal politics and internal feuds stalling local government?

So far, Supervisor Galvin has not issued a public response to the resolutions. Maricopa County has also not acknowledged any changes in Recorder Heap’s operational access.

What happens next could determine whether District 4’s sharp rebuke translates into real structural change—or simply adds another chapter to Arizona’s long history of political infighting.

The post GOP Committee Declares No Confidence in Maricopa County Supervisor Thomas Galvin Amid Accusations of Procedural Misconduct appeared first on Saguaro Signal.

“I’ve worked with Warren and seen firsthand his ability to protect our communities from crime, stand up for law enforcement, and protect the integrity of our elections,” Lesko stated. “Warren Petersen has the experience we need as our next Attorney General and isn’t afraid to stand up for Arizona businesses and families.”

Translation? Lesko knows Petersen isn’t afraid to roll up his sleeves and do the job the way it needs to be done—firm, focused, and unapologetically in defense of Arizona values.

While some are still pretending the rule of law is optional, Lesko and Petersen are clearly doubling down on it. From rising crime rates to an increasingly porous border, Arizona faces challenges that demand more than soft words and vague promises. We need muscle in the Attorney General’s office—someone who doesn’t blink when it’s time to take on cartels, political corruption, or threats to election security.

Petersen has proven himself as a legislative heavyweight, not just with flashy talk, but with actual results. Whether it’s pushing for voter ID, supporting law enforcement funding, or challenging bureaucratic overreach, he’s built a record that reflects the values of working Arizonans—people who lock their doors at night and want their vote to count.

Lesko’s endorsement isn’t just a pat on the back—it’s a loud-and-clear signal to the conservative base. It says Petersen is the one candidate in this race with the guts, grit, and know-how to protect Arizona’s legal and moral backbone.

While critics will no doubt grumble about “polarizing rhetoric” or “partisan overreach,” the truth is simple: this isn’t about politics as usual. This is about keeping Arizona safe, sovereign, and strong.

And with Debbie Lesko in his corner, Warren Petersen just became the frontrunner in the fight for Arizona’s future.

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Kolodin, a Scottsdale Republican known for his aggressive advocacy on election integrity issues, announced the endorsement on social media, describing Hoffman as “a staunch advocate for transparent, honest, and lawful elections.” Hoffman, who currently serves as the AZGOP’s National Committeeman to the RNC and is the Founding Chairman of the Arizona Freedom Caucus, praised Kolodin in equally emphatic terms.

ENDORSEMENT ALERT

I'm thrilled to also announce that Senator Jake Hoffman has endorsed me in the race to become Arizona’s next Secretary of State!

Not only is Senator Hoffman the AZGOP’s National Committeeman at the RNC and the Founding Chairman of the @AZFreedomCaucus, he’s… https://t.co/KQnj0nEBgC pic.twitter.com/FtqhlGUI7N

— Rep. Alexander Kolodin (@realAlexKolodin) April 10, 2025

The endorsement underscores Kolodin’s positioning as the unapologetic Freedom Caucus candidate for Arizona’s top elections office — especially within activist conservative circles who view the Secretary of State race as ground zero for restoring faith in Arizona’s voting systems.

Kolodin’s legislative record backs that up. He’s authored and championed multiple high-profile bills tightening ballot procedures, increasing transparency in election audits, and pushing back against what he has described as “unconstitutional interference” from D.C. and progressive litigation groups. While these efforts have drawn criticism from Democrats and some moderates, they’ve earned Kolodin a reputation as a legal pit bull willing to challenge the political status quo.

With the Freedom Caucus’ undisputed leader now firmly in his corner, Kolodin’s path forward just got clearer — and a lot louder.

Arizona conservatives are coalescing. And if the GOP grassroots continues lining up behind Kolodin, the Secretary of State’s office might be the next domino to fall in a broader realignment of Arizona’s executive leadership.

Arizona Republicans await to see if Gina Swoboda, the party chairwoman, announces a run of her own.

Photo taken by Gage Skidmore

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Arizona’s sweetheart of gun safety reform, Gabby Giffords, just publicly threw her support behind Adelita Grijalva for Congress in CD7—and not Daniel Hernandez, the guy who literally applied pressure to her head after she was shot. Like… literally saved her life. Like blood on his hands kind of saved her life.

No offense, but girl—what kind of Hunger Games betrayal is this?

The endorsement was announced on the heels of Grijalva’s campaign launch, and came not just from Gabby herself, but from Mark Kelly and the entire Giffords PAC. That’s three strikes for Daniel—who, may I remind everyone again, was a 22-year-old intern at the time of the 2011 Tucson shooting and stepped up like a total hero when everything was chaos.

And let’s be real: Daniel Hernandez isn’t just some guy. He’s a former state lawmaker, Latino, gay, and has spent his career fighting for equity and healthcare access. Basically everything progressives say they want in a candidate. But instead of backing him, Gabby Giffords picked someone else—who, let’s be honest, kinda just coasts off her last name.

Yes, Adelita Grijalva is the daughter of late Congressman Raúl Grijalva. Yes, she’s been in local office. But like… this isn’t a dynasty, it’s a democracy. People have memories. And a whole generation of us literally grew up hearing about Daniel’s courage and calm under pressure.

To not even acknowledge that legacy in a race this personal?
It’s not just political—it feels personal.

Honestly, it’s giving betrayal. It’s giving amnesia.
It’s giving yikes.

Whatever the reasoning behind the Giffords endorsement, the optics are bad, babes. Like, really bad. At some point, loyalty should matter. And when the cameras were flashing and the world was watching, Daniel didn’t run—he ran toward danger.

Apparently that doesn’t mean as much anymore.

The post Gabby Giffords Just Endorsed Adelita Grijalva Over Daniel Hernandez… the Man Who Literally Saved Her Life appeared first on Saguaro Signal.

Seems easy enough, right?

The bill in question—House Bill 2030—was introduced by Rep. Walt Blackman, a decorated U.S. Army veteran, and sailed through the Arizona House in a 58-0 vote. That’s as unanimous as it gets.

But when it hit the Arizona Senate, it ran straight into a wall named Wendy Rogers.

Despite being a veteran herself, Rogers—who chairs the Senate Judiciary Committee—struck the bill from the agenda, effectively killing it before it could even be debated.

Let’s not ignore the irony here: a bill meant to stop people from faking military service was sidelined by someone who built her brand on the back of her own. Rogers’ military past is well-documented, sure—but lately, her focus seems less about honoring that oath and more about weaponizing it for political theater.

And veterans noticed.

“Senator Rogers, shame on you,” Rep. Blackman said.
“You violated [the Air Force Academy’s Honor Code] the moment you chose political games over honoring those who served.”

He’s not wrong. This bill wasn’t some fringe stunt—it was a clear, bipartisan stand against a real problem. Just last year, Rogers endorsed Steve Slaton, a man caught falsifying records and pretending to be a Vietnam vet while running in a Republican primary. You’d think that’d be a wake-up call.

Meanwhile, Rodney Glassman—a U.S. Air Force JAG officer—has been keeping the issue alive. At the press conference, he stood beside veterans who called the delay “disrespectful” and a betrayal of basic values.

“It’s amazing what can be accomplished when Veterans stick together,” Glassman tweeted afterward.

That unity was on full display at the event, where Glassman called on lawmakers to stop stalling and just let the bill come to a vote. While Senate leadership is now reportedly working toward a compromise, it shouldn’t have taken a full-court press from Arizona’s veteran community to even get the conversation moving again.

Bottom line: When a law that protects the honor of military service gets erased from the schedule by someone who wore the uniform, it sends a message—and it’s not a good one.

Arizona’s veterans deserve better.

Photo taken by Gage Skidmore

The post Glassman Rallies Vets While Wendy Rogers Ghosts ‘Stolen Valor’ Bill appeared first on Saguaro Signal.

César Chávez, co-founder of the United Farm Workers of America, remains one of the most influential figures in American labor history. The proclamation highlights his lifelong fight for dignity, fair wages, and humane working conditions for farmworkers—many of whom continue to face economic and legal challenges today.

“Today, on César Chávez Day, we celebrate the power of advocacy and grit of farmworkers and all working Arizonans who are the beating heart of the Arizona Promise,” Governor Hobbs said in a statement.

The proclamation, signed by both Hobbs and Secretary of State Adrian Fontes, recognizes Chávez’s formative roots in Arizona, where he was born on March 31, 1927. It credits his early hardships as a farmworker for shaping his commitment to social justice, nonviolence, and labor rights.

The history of Cesar Chavez Day

The declaration traces Chávez’s activism back to his organizing efforts alongside leaders like Dolores Huerta and Larry Itliong during pivotal moments such as the 1965 Delano Grape Strike. It also ties his philosophy of nonviolence to the teachings of Mahatma Gandhi and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., both of whom influenced his approach to civil disobedience.

Chávez passed away in 1993 in his hometown of Yuma, but his influence remains potent. From grassroots organizing to statewide policy conversations, the legacy of Chávez serves as a reminder of Arizona’s role in shaping national labor movements.

While March 31 has long been observed as a day of remembrance in Chávez’s honor, this year’s proclamation from Hobbs represents a formal reaffirmation of his enduring impact. In doing so, it invites reflection on the ongoing responsibility to uplift marginalized voices and protect the rights of working people.

The Governor’s office has not announced whether future César Chávez Days will be recognized as official state holidays, but for now, the 2025 proclamation stands as a tribute to one of Arizona’s most influential native sons—and a call to continue the work he began.

Photo taken by Arthur Omar Olivo

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