Amish Shah Surges Ahead in Jam-Packed CD1 Race to Challenge David Schweikert

A tightly contested Democratic primary for Arizona’s First Congressional District remained unresolved late Tuesday night. Former state Representative Amish Shah emerged with a narrow lead.

Shah, who is also a practicing medical doctor, garnered about 24% of the vote. This put him approximately three percentage points ahead of Andrei Cherny and four points ahead of Marlene Galán-Woods.

Andrei Cherny, a former assistant Arizona attorney general and ex-chairman of the Arizona Democratic Party, received endorsements from notable figures like former President Bill Clinton and Phoenix Mayor Kate Gallego.

Marlene Galán-Woods, a former broadcast journalist and widow of former Attorney General Grant Woods, secured significant support. Backers included Arizona Attorney General Kris Mayes, former Governor Janet Napolitano, and various current and ex-members of Congress.

The race’s other contenders included Conor O’Callaghan, a finance professional, who captured around 18% of the votes. Orthodontist Andrew Horne and Kurt Kroemer, former CEO of the Arizona/New Mexico region of the American Red Cross, trails behind with 12% and 3% respectively.

Whoever emerges victorious will challenge incumbent Republican Congressman David Schweikert in the upcoming election. Schweikert decisively won his primary against opponents Kim George and Robert Backie.