Hernandez Unleashes Air War in Southern AZ’s CD7 Amidst Election Buzz

A roundup of local political news reveals significant developments in Tucson’s political landscape. Democratic candidate Daniel Hernandez has debuted his first television advertisement for the special election in Congressional District 7.

Hernandez, a former state legislator, is one of five Democrats competing in the July 15 primary to fill the vacancy left by the late Raúl Grijalva. The district, which includes vital areas of Southern Arizona, has been represented by Grijalva since his election in 2022.

In his ad, Hernandez shares his background, emphasizing his upbringing in a “big, loud Mexican family.” He pledges to advocate against President Trump and to safeguard healthcare and Social Security. The advertisement features a heartfelt cameo from his mother, who states in Spanish that “my son Daniel has never known how to give up.”

His campaign announced a significant six-figure investment in the ad, which will be broadcast across various platforms.

Congressional District 7 comprises precincts in Tucson, Yuma, Nogales, Douglas, Sells, and more. Nearly 61% of voters reside in Pima County, with 14% in Yuma County, followed by smaller percentages in Maricopa, Santa Cruz, Cochise, and Pinal Counties. Early voting begins on June 18, requiring voter registration by June 16.

In other news, Tucson Mayor Regina Romero has endorsed Miranda Schubert in the highly contested Ward 6 City Council primary. “Miranda Schubert is a passionate advocate and grounded community leader,” Romero stated. “She understands the challenges neighborhoods face.”

Schubert is seeking to remedy a previous primary loss to Steve Kozachik. She has garnered backing from notable figures, including Councilmember Lane Santa Cruz and congressional candidate Adelita Grijalva. Competing candidates in this election include attorney Leighton Rockafellow Jr., PCC Governing Board member Theresa Riel, and retired science teacher Jim Sinex.

Ballots will be mailed starting on July 9, and voters must register by July 8.

Lastly, the community mourns the loss of George Cunningham, a former lawmaker and Arizona advocate, who passed away on May 6. Remembered for his humor and dedication, Cunningham’s family encourages contributions to honor his legacy. Supporters may consider donating to the Grand Canyon Institute, the George R. Cunningham Scholarship at the University of Arizona, or the Catalina High School Foundation, both of which reflect his lifetime of service and commitment to education.