Juan Ciscomani Broadens Advantage Over Kirsten Engel in Southern Arizona Congressional Battle

Incumbent Republican U.S. Rep. Juan Ciscomani has regained a narrow lead over former Democratic state legislator Kirsten Engel in a tightly contested race for Arizona’s Congressional District 6. As ballot counts continue, the outcome remains uncertain, with the two candidates frequently swapping leads since Election Day.

This election is critical for Democrats aiming to flip southern Arizona’s competitive district, which spans the eastern half of Tucson and stretches to the state’s southern and eastern borders. Recent tallies show Ciscomani ahead by just 1,560 votes.

The contest is reminiscent of their 2022 match-up, where Ciscomani narrowly defeated Engel by less than two percentage points. Tensions have escalated as both candidates have traded small leads over the past week.

Engel’s campaign has zeroed in on Ciscomani’s voting record on abortion rights, highlighting his affiliations with conservative groups that advocate for traditional values and oppose abortion and LGBTQ rights. These points of contention have shaped the narrative of the race.

Ciscomani responds by emphasizing his bipartisan track record in Congress and his ability to secure federal funding for District 6, which includes areas in Pima, Pinal, Cochise, Graham, and Greenlee counties. He has criticized Engel as “out-of-touch” and lacking a strong position on border security.

The political stakes are high; as Republicans look to solidify control in Washington, the outcome in Congressional District 6 could influence broader party dynamics across Arizona. With outstanding ballots primarily in Cochise, Pima, and Greenlee counties, each area’s results could prove decisive.

While Pima County tends to favor Engel, Ciscomani has garnered support in both Greenlee and Cochise. As of Friday evening, the race remains too close to call, and per state law, an automatic recount is anticipated regardless of the final tally.