Former Councilmember Wheeler and THS Educator Team Up in Tucson’s Ward 6 Showdown

The political landscape in Tucson’s Ward 6 has become increasingly competitive, with six candidates now vying for the position. Last week, Bruce Wheeler, a former Tucson City Council member and state lawmaker, along with Jim Sinex, a science educator at Tucson High, both announced their intentions to run.

This election cycle is notable as there is no incumbent candidate; Councilmember Karin Uhlich has chosen not to run for re-election. Uhlich, who previously represented Ward 3, was appointed to the Ward 6 seat in May 2024 following the resignation of Democrat Steve Kozachik.

Wheeler brings a wealth of political experience, having first been elected to the Arizona House of Representatives at just 26 years of age in 1974. “I lost reelection in 1976 by 15 votes!” he recounted, emphasizing the challenges he’s faced over the decades. His political journey includes two terms on the Tucson City Council and a return to the Arizona Legislature in 2010 after a hiatus.

Despite previous attempts for higher office, including a candidacy for U.S. Congress in 2018, Wheeler’s current focus is firmly on local issues. He expressed concerns over Tucson’s future regarding water resources, public safety, and utility line placements. Recently, he criticized the proposition to increase the sales tax to fund city initiatives, stating, “We’ve got to re-prioritize things.”

Sinex has a different platform, advocating for reform in Tucson’s election system. Currently, candidates run within their wards during primaries but compete citywide during general elections. Sinex contends, “Finding a means toward achieving a better system must include the electorate.”

The voter registration landscape in Tucson heavily favors Democrats, who comprise 42% of the electorate compared to 22% for Republicans. Historically, the last Republican to hold the Ward 6 seat was Kozachik, who switched parties before his subsequent election.

In addition to Wheeler and Sinex, Miranda Schubert, also a Democratic candidate, held a campaign launch party recently, emphasizing the need for safe and functional streets and affordable housing. Schubert has experience in community advocacy, previously serving on city boards focused on urban planning and transportation.

Another candidate, Theresa Riel, a retired math educator and member of the Pima Community College Governing Board, is also running. Riel’s community involvement has spanned meaningful outreach efforts, asserting her intention to remain connected to the needs of the ward’s residents.

Charlie Verdin, who has a background in the gaming merchandise industry, announced his candidacy to address rising housing costs and improve public accessibility. Alongside him is Leighton Rockafellow Jr., a personal injury attorney who touts his skills and knowledge as critical for guiding Tucson’s development decisions.

Turning to Ward 5, four Democratic candidates have emerged, aiming to succeed Councilman Richard Fimbres, who will not pursue a fifth term. Jesse Lugo has aligned himself closely with Fimbres’ legacy while stating his commitment to community concerns. He recently welcomed veteran political figure F. Ann Rodriguez as his campaign co-chair.

Selena Barajas, Christopher Elsner, and Richard Hernandez are also considering runs, with each highlighting various community-focused initiatives and the pressing need for affordable housing in Tucson.

In Ward 3, Councilman Kevin Dahl seeks re-election and may face a primary challenge from Alma Gordon, a consultant. Dahl, having served for over three years, expressed confidence in his ability to continue delivering progress in the ward.

No Republican candidates have emerged yet for the upcoming elections, although party leaders suggest this may change as the election date nears. Tucson’s odd-year elections promise significant shifts, with city leadership up for deliberation in March.