Arizona Democrats in Turmoil: Leadership Battles Erupt Over Infighting

By Staff Reporter |

The Arizona Democratic Party (ADP) faces significant internal conflict, as leaders and elected officials engage in public disputes. Recent communications from ADP Chairman Robert Branscomb highlighted these tensions, revealing frustrations around party governance.

Branscomb sent a candid email over the weekend, detailing accusations against his predecessor and members of the party. He claimed that a lack of support from U.S. Senators Mark Kelly and Ruben Gallego, who backed his opponent Yolanda Bejarano for the party chairmanship, has hampered his leadership.

In his correspondence, Branscomb accused former executive director Morgan Dick of obstruction and misconduct during the transition period. He alleged that false claims were disseminated in staff discussions, essential party resources were withheld, and staff were subtly encouraged to resign. As a result, he terminated Dick’s employment, replacing her with political director Michael Ruff, who faces a similar lack of support from party officials.

Branscomb’s allegations escalated with claims that Senator Kelly attempted to influence staffing choices. After Ruff’s appointment, Branscomb reported that both Senators threatened to withdraw their backing for the party, stirring concerns about the party’s integrity. “No state party chair should face intimidation from elected officials,” he stated firmly, underlining his commitment to independence in leadership.

In response, Kelly, Gallego, and several prominent Democrats issued a joint statement denying Branscomb’s allegations. They emphasized their ongoing support for him and described his claims as misleading and indicative of poor faith. “We’ve spent the last several months meeting regularly with the chair… Unfortunately, his statement includes many false claims,” their response read.

The internal strife within the ADP became more localized at a recent LD22 Democrats meeting. Members reportedly attempted to unseat their district chair, Leezah Sun, citing dissatisfaction with her leadership. Sun did not attend due to an active restraining order stemming from harassment allegations by city employees in Tolleson. A judge ruled that Sun posed a threat to these employees, restricting her access to certain venues.

Formerly a state lawmaker, Sun had resigned her House seat amid ethics violations involving disorderly conduct. Despite her expulsion from the legislature, she successfully campaigned for a position on the Tolleson Union High School District governing board, where she was elected president.