Dems Strike at GOP Incumbent in LD4, Lean on Abortion Debate

In a critical electoral battle, a Republican incumbent is fighting to retain his position in Arizona’s Legislative District 4, where the candidates’ views on abortion are emerging as a key issue. Rep. Matt Gress, R-Phoenix, faces challenges from Democrats Kelli Butler and Karen Gresham, both of whom are positioning him as an “extreme anti-abortion” candidate.

The Arizona Democratic Legislative Campaign Committee has highlighted Gress’s endorsement by the Center for Arizona Policy, a conservative nonprofit advocating for traditional values and religious freedoms. The committee argues that Gress’s stance is misaligned with the priorities of the district’s electorate.

“Voters have made it clear that they will support candidates this November who protect access to abortion,” stated Elsa O’Callaghan, executive director of the Democratic committee. She emphasized that the endorsements indicate a disconnect between Republican candidates and the views of their constituents.

Gress, who previously served as a budget director under former Governor Doug Ducey, is vying for a second term. His district encompasses parts of north Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Paradise Valley. Notably, Gress played a crucial role in the repeal of Arizona’s 1864 abortion ban, pushing for legislative action against opposition from his party’s leadership.

While advocating for the repeal, Gress faced backlash from Republican colleagues, culminating in his removal from the House Appropriations Committee by House Speaker Ben Toma. Tensions within the GOP have led some members to suggest that Gress’s running mate, Pam Carter, should be the sole candidate endorsed in the district.

Carter’s political background includes a previous bid for the Scottsdale City Council in 2022, which ended in defeat. Her connection to actress Lynda Carter, famous for her portrayal of Wonder Woman, has gained media attention, yet Lynda Carter opted not to endorse her in this current race.

In her campaign, Carter previously indicated a desire for stricter abortion laws following the overturning of Roe v. Wade. GOP consultant Chuck Coughlin remarked that such a stance might hinder her chances in a district where voters possibly favor a more moderate approach to abortion issues.

The Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission suggests Republicans have a slight advantage in the district, with a 3.4% vote spread. In the 2022 elections, voters supported both Sen. Christine Marsh, D-Phoenix, and Gress, along with Laura Terech.

In the last election cycle, Gress emerged as the leading candidate in the LD4 House race. His performance indicates a competitive landscape, with close margins between him and other candidates such as Terech and Maria Syms.

Republicans currently maintain a single-seat majority in both the House and Senate. Tyler Montague, a prominent GOP figure, cautioned that any attempts to unseat Gress could backfire and jeopardize their majority.

Opposition to Gress is also mounted by former Rep. Kelli Butler and education board member Karen Gresham. Democrats previously secured a House seat with Laura Terech’s win in 2022, but her departure has left the party without an incumbent.

Butler, a former three-term representative, and Gresham oppose the current 15-week abortion ban, which they deem arbitrary. In contrast, Gress supports the ban but advocates for additional exceptions.

The recent primary elections saw both parties run uncontested, with Gress leading the candidates in total votes. Fundraising efforts have been robust across the board, with Gress taking the lead in campaign contributions, surpassing $400,000 before early July.

Coughlin noted that Gress’s fundraising is bolstered by support from Ducey’s network, positioning him as a successor to the governor’s legacy. Meanwhile, Democratic fundraising efforts have also gained momentum, particularly following Terech’s departure.

Butler and Gresham recently reported record-breaking fundraising figures, enhancing their visibility and competitiveness ahead of the upcoming election.