Ex-Sub Shop Owner Contemplates Republican Bid for Tucson City Council

Jay Tolkoff, former owner of PJ Subs and a well-known figure in Tucson, has officially entered the race for the Ward 6 seat on the Tucson City Council as the first Republican candidate this election cycle. Tolkoff filed his statement of interest with the City Clerk’s Office on February 3, marking his inaugural run for public office.

The motivation behind Tolkoff’s candidacy stems from his belief that Tucson’s trajectory has taken a downturn since he first moved to the city in the late 1970s. “I just want it to be a great place,” he stated, reminiscing about Tucson’s past charm. After closing his restaurant due to significant financial losses attributed to the pandemic, Tolkoff is now focused on revitalizing the area where he has spent decades building his career.

Originally from New Jersey, Tolkoff relocated to Tucson in 1978 to study electrical engineering at the University of Arizona. He gained valuable experience at the local Domino’s franchise, eventually becoming the acting president of its Southern Arizona operations by 1993. Transitioning from that role, he ventured into construction before founding PJ Subs in 2004. After two decades of business, he closed the restaurant last year and is currently exploring opportunities for a new venture on the South Side.

Beyond his business endeavors, Tolkoff has personally faced challenges, including multiple break-ins at his Midtown residence. These experiences have fueled his concerns about rising crime rates, homelessness, and drug addiction in Tucson, issues he feels have escalated over the years.

With the absence of an incumbent in the Ward 6 race—Councilmember Karin Uhlich has opted not to seek reelection—Tolkoff faces competition primarily from Democratic candidates. Given the city’s electoral landscape, where Democrats significantly outnumber Republicans, his path to victory could be challenging. As of now, nearly two Democrats are registered for every Republican in Tucson, with Democrats comprising 42% of the electorate.

Six Democratic candidates have already indicated their intention to run for the Ward 6 seat, including former council member Bruce Wheeler and state lawmaker Jim Sinex. Other Democratic contenders are Miranda Schubert, Theresa Riel, Charlie Verdin, and Leighton Rockafellow Jr., each bringing unique backgrounds into the race.

To qualify for the ballot, candidates must file a statement of interest prior to gathering signatures for their nominating petitions. Additionally, those seeking funds from the city’s public financing program must file specific organizational documents ahead of fundraising efforts.

As the primary approaches, candidates have until April 7 to submit their nominating petitions. In a parallel pursuit, four Democrats are preparing to contest in the Ward 5 race, where Councilman Richard Fimbres will not seek another term, further shaping this election’s dynamic.

Tucson’s local elections are set for August 5, highlighting the changes and challenges the city faces in the upcoming political landscape.