Nanos Faces Fierce Contest in Pima County Sheriff Dem Primary

Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos secured a significant lead over Democratic competitor Sandy Rosenthal, earning 61 percent of the vote in early returns. In the Republican primary, Heather Lappin led with 45 percent in a tight three-way race.

Rosenthal, a 36-year veteran who retired as a lieutenant in 2015, criticized Nanos for declining department morale and an increase in inmate deaths at the Pima County Jail. “This is kind of humbling,” Nanos remarked on Tuesday night. “Not many of us get the chance to make decisions that impact an entire community.” He expressed honor at the win, emphasizing the remaining days before the general election to showcase his capabilities.

Nanos highlighted the department’s resilience through challenges like COVID-19, labor shortages, and supply issues. He emphasized growth, particularly in community policing efforts. In the GOP primary, Lappin, now the East Section commander in the county jail, faced veteran Bill Phillips, who garnered 40 percent, and private investigator Terry Frederick, who received 15 percent.

Lappin expressed cautious optimism, saying, “I’m thrilled with the results so far,” but refraining from declaring victory. Nanos criticized GOP plans for the sheriff’s office as shortsighted, arguing that his opponents lack the experience needed to run the agency effectively.

The numbers reflect early ballots tabulated after being returned earlier this month. Pima County continued counting Election Day votes Tuesday evening. Additional votes from mail-in ballots dropped off on Election Day will be counted following a signature verification process.