Leach vs. McLean: A High-Stakes Showdown for LD17 and the Senate Majority

As the November elections approach, Democrats are intensifying their efforts to flip the Arizona Legislature, with a critical focus on Legislative District 17. This district features a contest between former lawmaker Vince Leach and retired engineer John McLean.

In a surprising primary upset, Leach, previously viewed as a less favorable candidate for Democrats, triumphed over incumbent Sen. Justine Wadsack, R-Tucson. The district, which includes the northeast area of Tucson, traditionally favors Republican candidates by more than 8%, prompting Democrats to invest heavily in this race.

Leach, a retired businessman who relocated to Arizona from Wisconsin in 2007, has previously served four terms in the Legislature. He aims to reclaim the LD17 seat following his primary success against Wadsack. His campaign is focused on implementing conservative policies and emphasizing fiscal responsibility.

During his time in office, Leach prioritized budgetary committees, advocating for tax reductions to benefit Arizonans. If re-elected, he plans to introduce legislation aimed at identifying underutilized tax credits previously approved by the Legislature.

Leach also supports the Empowerment Scholarship Account (ESA) program, which expanded its reach to all Arizona students after his departure from the Legislature in 2022. He articulates the need for ongoing funding, proposing a careful review to ensure fiscal accountability.

In terms of public safety, Leach endorses Proposition 314, also known as HCR2060, which seeks to impose stiffer penalties for fentanyl-related deaths and would grant local police broader authority regarding border security. He insists that Arizona needs urgent action against drug cartels and illegal border crossings.

Leach’s plan for tackling housing affordability involves advocating for the appropriation of federal lands to create more residential areas. He believes that cities should relinquish control over expansive land to facilitate housing development.

His conservative agenda also includes supporting policies that define sports participation according to biological gender, demonstrating a clear partisan divide with his opponent.

McLean, an Arizona native and long-time Pima County resident, presents a stark contrast in both background and policy. He was inspired to enter politics following the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision to overturn Roe v. Wade, which he described as a crucial moment for personal freedom.

McLean advocates for greater funding for the Department of Public Safety to enhance border security. He argues for limiting the ESA program to redirect funds toward public schools, expressing concern over the use of taxpayer dollars for affluent families already benefitting from private education.

Initially targeting Wadsack, McLean’s strategy shifted after Leach emerged victorious in the primary. He remains energized by the challenge, vowing to focus on bipartisan solutions for issues like reproductive health, education, and water resources, drawing on lessons from his state senator uncle.

Recent campaign finance disclosures reveal a significant funding gap, with McLean holding $147,115 compared to Leach’s $39,382. This discrepancy may play a crucial role as the candidates head into the final weeks of their campaign.