Mesa Residents Rally to Oust Self-Proclaimed Republican Council Member

By Staff Reporter |

Mesa is witnessing a growing movement to recall council member Julie Spilsbury, who represents district two. Spilsbury, a self-identified Republican, faces backlash primarily over her voting record and her endorsements of Democratic candidates in the previous election cycle.

The recall petition, initiated by JoAnne Robbins, highlights contentious decisions made by Spilsbury, including the approval of a permit that transformed a hotel into a homeless shelter and increases to both city council salaries and utility rates. Residents have expressed frustration, attributing the city’s homelessness issues to Spilsbury and the council’s policies.

Scott Neely, a former mayoral candidate, described the scene in his neighborhood as a “war zone,” voicing his discontent with Spilsbury’s actions. “Thank you, Julie Spilsbury and Mayor-Elect Mark Freeman, for shoving this low-income housing down our throats that our neighbors voted against,” he stated.

Turning Point Action (TPA) is actively leading the signature gathering campaign. As part of their efforts, TPA has organized a “super chase” initiative, which includes a series of door-knocking events aimed at collecting the required 3,100 signatures by May 30 for a special election.

In response to the recall efforts, Spilsbury took to social media, asserting her dedication to nonpartisanship and defending her decisions based on her reelection margin. She expressed her commitment to the Mesa community, emphasizing her belief in representing all residents. “I care deeply for EVERY person in our city, not just the ones who look like me or think like me,” she wrote.

The recall is motivated not only by Spilsbury’s voting history but also by her political affiliations. Her endorsement of Kamala Harris and Ruben Gallego has alienated some Republican constituents. Spilsbury’s involvement in groups like “Republicans for Harris” has further fueled dissent among mainstream GOP voters.

Signature gatherer Cynthia reported widespread dissatisfaction among residents, with many feeling let down by Spilsbury’s leadership. “They feel betrayed because there was a promise to protect their kids, their community, and their finances, and all three of those things she’s turned her back on,” she shared.

Spilsbury won reelection in the summer primaries after the general election was canceled due to her decisive victory. However, her support within the council remains mixed. Council member Jennifer Duff defended Spilsbury against the recall efforts, urging against partisanship within the city council. “Julie Wold Spilsbury is an excellent council member, serving in a non-partisan position,” Duff argued on social media.