Booker Heads to Tucson for Exciting ‘People’s Town Hall’ and Rockafellow’s Launch Party

A series of significant political events are set to unfold in Tucson. U.S. Senator Cory Booker will lead a “People’s Town Hall” on Sunday, April 13, in Congressional District 6, aiming to engage Democrats and call attention to the absence of live town halls by Congressman Juan Ciscomani. The New Jersey Democrat, alongside Tucson Mayor Regina Romero and other local leaders, will address constituents dissatisfied with Ciscomani’s lack of public forums.

The event’s invitation highlights their intention to fill the gap left by Ciscomani, who has drawn scrutiny from Democratic leaders and the community alike. This comes amid reports that Republican Congress members have been advised against holding similar town halls. In contrast, Democrats plan proactive gatherings in Republican districts to engage voters.

Concerns surrounding healthcare are at the forefront as Ciscomani faces pressure from the business sector over proposed cuts to Arizona’s Medicaid program, also known as AHCCCS. Senator Mark Kelly expressed alarm over the Republican budget proposal, which could lead to the loss of health insurance for up to 750,000 Arizonans, labeling potential cuts as “catastrophic.”

Kelly has criticized the GOP’s approach to Medicaid, asserting that the plan aims to finance tax cuts for the wealthy at the expense of vital services for low-income and disabled individuals. Despite these allegations, Ciscomani has downplayed the concerns, labeling them as “outrageous lies,” even as he voted to advance the controversial budget plan.

The House of Representatives narrowly passed the legislation, which mandates finding $880 billion in Medicaid cuts over the next decade. The People’s Town Hall is scheduled for 6 p.m. on April 13, but the location had yet to be announced by the Sentinel’s deadline. Interested attendees can RSVP to join the discussion.

In addition to the town hall, other notable political events are on the horizon. Tucson Sentinel reporter Jim Nintzel will participate in a panel discussion on AZPM’s Press Room on April 11. That same day, political coverage will air on PBS 6 and NPR-affiliated KUAZ-FM.

The following week marks the deadline for candidates to submit nominating petitions for the special Congressional District 7 election, a seat made vacant by the late U.S. Rep. Raul Grijalva. Community gatherings continue with a happy hour hosted by Democrats of Greater Tucson on April 16, and a campaign launch party for Democrat Leighton Rockafellow Jr. for Tucson’s Ward 6 on April 18.

Upcoming dates for political participation include a Zoom presentation by City Councilman Kevin Dahl on April 21 and various registration deadlines and voting schedules leading to both the special election and Tucson City Council races throughout the summer.