Battle for LD9: Two Republicans Clash Over the GOP’s Future

In Legislative District 9, Democrats currently hold all state legislative seats, creating a competitive environment for this November’s elections. Two Republican candidates are vying for their party’s influence, showcasing distinctly different strategies.

The Democratic incumbents, Reps. Lorena Austin and Seth Blattman, are each seeking a second term after their successful 2022 campaign, which ensured Democratic control over all three district seats. In contrast, they will face challengers Mary Ann Mendoza and Kylie Barber, positioning this race at the intersection of ideology and voter appeal.

East Valley Republican consultant Tyler Montague noted Barber’s approach might resonate better with undecided voters. “If Republicans have a chance in that district, it’s Kylie Barber,” he stated, highlighting her bipartisan appeal.

Barber’s campaign is bolstered by endorsements from the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce. Emphasizing unity over division, she stated, “People are looking for leadership that’s positive, that’s sort of a happy warrior and is not polarizing but unifying.”

Conversely, Mendoza’s past controversies include removal as a speaker from the 2020 Republican National Convention for sharing antisemitic content. Despite her apologies, her prior actions continue to shadow her campaign.

Tensions between the two Republican candidates aren’t hidden, with Mendoza recently labeling Barber a “Democratic plant” in a post-primary video. Their contrasting styles suggest a divide within the party itself.

While Barber aligns herself with more centrist and bipartisan interests, Mendoza has garnered support from the Freedom Caucus, underscoring the ideological rift within the GOP. Rep. Barbara Parker urged voters to consider Mendoza’s experience over Barber’s perceived lack of familiarity with conservative principles.

Recent voter registration data presents a slight Republican advantage in the district, yet with a significant number of voters classified as “other,” the dynamics remain fluid. Despite the GOP’s voter base, Montague suggests that Barber might hinder her chances by not fully distinguishing herself from hardline conservatives.

In the previous election cycle, Blattman and Austin won against Mendoza and another Republican opponent, Karrin Robson Taylor. The Democrats’ success in 2022 marked LD9 as the sole district where the party secured all three legislative seats.

Both incumbents highlight their priorities in office as being inclusive of all constituents. “It’s a purple district,” Blattman articulated, rejecting extremism from either side.

Their legislative accomplishments reflect this ethos. Austin successfully pushed for funding the Arizona Promise Program during her first budget negotiations, aimed at reducing college costs for eligible students. Similarly, Blattman championed funding for a Micro-Business Loan Program supporting small enterprises.

Barber, in seeking to enhance representation, expressed admiration for her opponents, contrasting sharply with Mendoza’s more adversarial tone. Barber respects Austin’s energy but criticizes the incumbents’ alignment with party agendas that may not reflect the district’s desires.

Despite the sharp rhetoric directed at Austin from some Republicans, she remains committed to a welcoming approach. “My door is always open and I’ll take a meeting with anyone. We’re here for everybody in this district, regardless of what party you belong to,” Austin affirmed.