Congressional Hopeful Amish Shah Under Fire for Ad Featuring Tempe Police Officer

By Matthew Holloway |

In a surprising turn of events, Democratic candidate Amish Shah for Congressional District 1 is under scrutiny from the Tempe City Attorney’s office. This situation arose following a controversial mailer featuring a retired Tempe Police officer in full uniform, alongside Shah. The mailer suggests Shah’s stance on law enforcement and border security, asserting he has “stood up to his own party to crack down on fentanyl trafficking.”

Tempe City Attorney Eric Anderson reached out to Shah’s campaign, citing potential violations of Arizona law A.R.S. 9-500.14. This statute prohibits the use of city resources, including logos, to influence elections. Anderson pointed out that the presence of the city’s logo on the mailer constitutes such a resource and asked for a cessation of its use. He indicated that if the mailer continued, the Schweikert campaign should inform the city for further action.

Despite the city attorney’s demands, advertisements featuring the officer have reportedly persisted. Chris Baker, a consultant for the Schweikert campaign, mentioned that one additional mailer was distributed shortly after the city’s notice. Following this, another advertisement was sent out, prompting the campaign to alert city officials.

Shah responded to the allegations by passing the attorney’s letter to his legal team. He stated his campaign would adjust the mailer if a violation is confirmed. Shah highlighted that his team had worked with a major national firm, which assured them the use of the photo was permissible. “We’re checking with our team and our lawyers,” he commented, “and if we are found to be out of compliance, then we will take corrective action.”

The controversy has sparked strong responses from opponents. Ben Petersen, spokesperson for the National Republican Congressional Committee, issued a statement criticizing Shah, accusing him of flaunting legal boundaries. Petersen took to social media to emphasize that Shah seems unaware that Tempe is not part of Congressional District 1.

Under the law, violations can result in civil penalties up to $5,000, with possible scrutiny of any misused city funds. As the situation unfolds, all eyes are on Shah and his campaign’s next moves amidst increasing pressure from both supporters and detractors.

Matthew Holloway is a reporter for AZ Free News. Follow him on X for his latest stories, or email tips to Matthew@azfreenews.com.