Democrat Edgar Soto Eyes District 3 Seat on Pima County Board of Supervisors

Edgar Soto, a former Tucson High baseball standout and Marine veteran, is making strides in the political arena. His senior year at Tucson High in 1987 saw the Badgers clinch a state championship. Post high school, Soto’s baseball career continued with scholarships at Arizona Western University and New Mexico University, although he never went pro.

Instead, Soto carved out a significant career in coaching and education. Starting at Tucson High and then moving to Pima Community College, he spent 14 years coaching before transitioning into administrative roles. He became PCC’s athletic director, dean of arts and humanities, and is currently the vice president at the Desert Vista Campus.

“Athletics have been a big part of my life,” Soto said, emphasizing the three words he uses to define himself: veteran, educator, and coach. “That’s just who I am, and I want people to understand: I know how to put together teams and work with diverse groups.”

This year, 54-year-old Soto is running for the westside District 3 seat, a position held by Democrat Sharon Bronson until her 2023 resignation. He faces competition from Jennifer Allen, April Hiosik Ignacio, and Miguel Cuevas.

About five years ago, Soto lobbied state lawmakers alongside community members, leading to the creation of the Southern Arizona Sports, Tourism and Film Authority in 2022. He now serves as chair of this organization, which promotes the sports, movie, and tourism sectors. “That’s how I got involved in politics,” Soto explained.

After Bronson resigned, Soto applied for the District 3 appointment, which ultimately went to Sylvia Lee. Encouraged by supporters, he decided to launch his campaign. “People reached out to me,” Soto said. “They appreciated my moderate stance and my work with the Southern Arizona Sports, Tourism and Film Authority.”

A fifth-generation Tucsonan, Soto aims to address local concerns, even admitting he doesn’t have all the answers but pledging to form teams to develop solutions. “I want people to come together for real solutions,” he stated.

Soto’s endorsements include former UA and NFL star Ricky Hunley, Tucson City Councilman Richard Fimbres, and state Rep. Betty Villegas. Sharon Bronson praised him in a commentary, stating, “Soto prioritizes people over policies, demonstrating his commitment to true public service.”

Business organizations such as the Southern Arizona Home Builders Association and the Tucson Association of Realtors have also endorsed him. Soto has raised $47,902 for his campaign, maintaining a fiscal lead over Ignacio and Cuevas, but trailing behind Allen.

Reflecting on his baseball days, Soto said, “You learn how to deal with adversity. You know how to cultivate a group of individuals to work on a common goal.”