Advocate Turned Candidate: Democrat Jen Allen Joins Pima County Board of Supervisors Race

Jen Allen’s career has always been rooted in advocacy. With a background in nonprofits championing undocumented immigrants, environmental protection, and human rights, her transition from advocate to candidate is a natural progression.

Allen is entering a four-way Democratic primary for the Pima County Board, a seat previously held by Sharon Bronson for 27 years. Her challengers include April Hiosik Ignacio, Edgar Soto, and Miguel Cuevas.

She has amassed endorsements from significant political figures. Congressman Raul Grijalva, Tucson Mayor Regina Romero, and various local lawmakers support her bid. Her campaign received a notable boost on July 25 when Hollywood legend Jane Fonda endorsed her, highlighting Allen’s commitment to environmental and community-based organizing.

In response to Fonda’s endorsement, Allen expressed her admiration for the actress and activist. “I’ve been a huge fan of her activism for climate action and who doesn’t love Grace and Frankie!?” she remarked, emphasizing her honor in gaining Fonda’s support.

Allen’s roots trace back to the Bay Area and Northern Utah. Tucson became her home in 1993. Though she attended Mount Holyoke and later the University of Colorado Boulder, where she earned a degree in anthropology and certification in social change, Arizona has been her base since 1998.

Her advocacy began with the founding of the Border Action Network in 1999, focusing on immigrant rights. Later, she served as a senior vice president for the League of Conservation Voters and became the executive director of the Arizona ACLU in 2021. While with the ACLU, she was stirred by issues in the Pima County Jail, leading her to consider a broader political role.

Allen’s campaign centers on ensuring marginalized communities receive adequate representation and resources. She formally entered the race in fall 2023, following Bronson’s resignation and her replacement’s decision not to run.

Allen’s campaign financials reveal significant grassroots support. By June 30, she raised $141,243 from over 500 donors, outpacing her rivals. Her backers come from the political, environmental, nonprofit, and legal sectors.

Reflecting on her campaign journey, Allen noted the similarities between advocating for change and running for office. “I’ve always been on the other side of the table of elected officials trying to push them to be responsive,” she stated, underlining her approach to problem-solving and strategic policy-making.