Reps. Jones and McGarr Launch Re-Election Bid to Safeguard Arizona’s Border

By Staff Reporter |

Two Republican lawmakers from southern Arizona are pivotal for their party’s control of the state legislature. State Representatives Cory McGarr and Rachel Jones are campaigning for re-election in Arizona Legislative District 17, having first assumed office in January 2023 following their General Election victories in November 2022. During the 2024 Republican primary, both incumbents faced off against Anna Orth, who did not place in the top two. McGarr led with 24,583 votes, Jones followed with 19,005, while Orth garnered 16,073.

McGarr holds the position of Vice-Chairman on the House Regulatory Affairs Committee and is involved with the Military Affairs & Public Safety and Natural Resources, Energy & Water Committees. Jones serves as Vice-Chairman on the House Military Affairs & Public Safety Committee and is a member of the Education, Government, and Municipal Oversight & Elections Committees.

On his campaign site, McGarr emphasizes his commitment to Arizona families, stating, “I promised to be a conservative fighter… and I’m running again to continue my promise to never back down.” He underscores his pro-family, pro-life beliefs, declaring that the government’s primary role is to safeguard individual rights.

Jones echoes similar sentiments on her website, advocating for “God Given Rights” and aiming to restore Arizona values by strengthening families. Her background as a business executive and former teacher informs her legislative priorities. Notably, she emphasizes her commitment to law enforcement and protecting children in the foster care system, which resonates deeply due to her personal adoption experience.

Both McGarr and Jones are staunch supporters of border security. They voted for legislation earlier this year aimed at imposing penalties on illegal border crossings. After the vote, Jones expressed that residents are eager to elect officials prioritizing the border crisis, countering claims from opposing parties.

Additionally, the duo played a key role in opposing efforts by Democrats to remove former President Donald Trump from the ballot in Colorado. Following the Supreme Court’s decision to remove Trump, McGarr announced plans to pursue similar actions against President Biden, citing allegations surrounding the southern border and corrupt dealings.

Recently, McGarr and Jones endorsed HCR 2060, a measure intended to bolster local law enforcement’s ability to address border-related issues. A poll indicates broad support for this proposal among Arizona residents, raising its chances in the upcoming General Election.

Legislative District 17 exhibits a history of Republican strength, having seen the GOP win all nine contests over the last nine elections, with an 8.34% vote spread favoring Republicans. McGarr and Jones will compete against Democrat Kevin Volk in the November elections.