Incumbents on the Edge: High-Stakes Town Council Races Rock Pima County

In nonpartisan races for town councils throughout the Tucson area, numerous incumbents found themselves trailing in their bids for re-election.

Tuesday night’s vote tallies included early ballots received earlier this month. In Pima County, Election Day votes were still being processed late into the evening. Further ballots handed in on Tuesday are awaiting signature verification before being counted.

Town of Marana

In Marana, two council seats were up for grabs. Patrick Cavanagh, who previously lost a council race in 2022, led with 35 percent of the vote. Incumbent Councilmember Roxanne Ziegler followed closely, securing 33 percent. Melissa Zupi, general manager of the Marana Pumpkin Patch and Farm Festivals, claimed 32 percent. Interestingly, long-serving Mayor Ed Honea faced no opposition in his race.

Town of Oro Valley

Oro Valley saw four candidates vying for three Town Council seats, with incumbents faring poorly. Councilmember Tim Bohen received 21 percent and Harry Greene had 22 percent. Mary Murphy, a member of the town’s Judicial Board of Adjustment, garnered 28 percent. Elizabeth Robb, an Army veteran and substitute teacher in the Amphi School District, led with 29 percent.

City of South Tucson

In South Tucson, seven candidates competed for four City Council seats. Challenger Dulce Jimenez was in the lead with 23 percent. Fellow challenger Pablo Robles secured 21 percent, and Melissa Dominguez had 19 percent. Incumbent Paul Diaz received 13 percent, while fellow incumbent Herman Lopez had 11 percent. Challengers Tim Escobedo and Scott Sears trailed with 7 percent and 6 percent, respectively.