Capitol’s Best of 2025: Unveiling This Year’s Top Winners!

Arizona’s political landscape is shaped by dynamic individuals and organizations, recognized during this year’s Best of the Capitol awards. The event highlighted the advocates, public servants, and lobbying experts whose contributions significantly impact state governance.

Congratulations are in order for all nominees and winners, whose hard work and dedication continue to inspire others.

Thanks to the Arizona Capitol Times for organizing this event, celebrating the collective efforts of those driving change in the state.

Here are the 2025 Best of the Capitol winners:

Best Elected Official – Republican: Julie Willoughby

Best Elected Official – Democrat: Sarah Liguori

Best Debater – Republican: J.D. Mesnard

Best Debater – Democrat: Analise Ortiz

Best Bill Sponsor: Analise Ortiz

Toughest Bill/Hardest Sell: Amilyn Pierce – HB2704 – Tax; distribution; county stadium district

Best Committee Chair: Jeff Weninger

Best Committee Ranking Minority Member: Sarah Liguori

Best Lobbyist: Daniella Smith

Best Lobbyist Under 40: Joe Barba

Best Government Lobbyist: Joe Barba

Toughest Lobbyist To Go Against: Nick Ponder

Best Lobbying Firm: Veridus LLC

Best Dressed: Yassamin Ansari

Best Capitol/Political Lawyer: Andy Gaona

Best Political Rising Star: Analise Ortiz

Most Quotable Politico: Analise Ortiz

Best Political Quote: “Silence in this is compliance in this” – Walt Blackman on his Stolen Valor bill held in the Senate Judiciary and Elections Committee.

Best Power Broker: Amilyn Pierce

Best PR Person: Stacy Pearson

Best PR Firm: Veridus LLC

Best Social Media Personality: Analise Ortiz

Best Crisis Response and Management: Stacy Pearson

Best Industry Trade & Professional Association: League Arizona of Cities and Towns

Best Nonprofit Advocacy Group: Arizona Association of Providers for People with Disabilities (AAPPD)

Best Nonprofit Advocate: Marie Isaacson

Best Political Action Committee: Yes on Proposition 139 – Arizona for Abortion Access

Best Polling Firm: HighGround Inc.

Best Pollster: Mike Noble