Phoenix Mayor Declines Debate Challenge from Rival

By Staff Reporter |

A mayoral debate in Phoenix appears unlikely as Republican challenger Matt Evans claims incumbent Mayor Kate Gallego has not engaged in scheduling discussions. On Tuesday, Evans stated that his repeated requests for a debate have gone unanswered by Gallego or her campaign.

Despite his public appeals, including a challenge directed at Gallego via social media, the mayor has not responded. Evans criticized her silence, arguing it is crucial for the 1.7 million constituents of Phoenix to hear from both candidates before the election.

The Maricopa County Republican Committee expressed frustration, highlighting Gallego’s past participation in debates during her successful 2018 campaign. The committee questioned why, now that a challenger has emerged, Gallego seems to avoid discussion with the electorate. “Is she going to discriminate against approximately 770,000 registered voters?” they asked.

The GOP contrasted Gallego’s debate avoidance with the strategies of high-profile politicians like Kamala Harris and Joe Biden, suggesting a concerning trend of evasion in political discourse.

Currently, Gallego’s campaign has minimal information regarding her specific policy positions on her website, primarily outlining achievements from her first term. Notable accomplishments include the establishment of a $65 billion semiconductor plant and initiatives aimed at climate response and clean drinking water access.

Conversely, Evans offers detailed policy proposals on his website, particularly addressing homelessness. A graduate of Arizona State University and a resident of Phoenix, Evans has a background in IT and a family of three. He previously ran for a City Council seat in 2022 but finished third with 17% of the vote.

Regarding campaign financing, Gallego’s reelection effort has reportedly raised over $1.3 million, with notable contributions from various political action committees and individual donors. Evans, meanwhile, has raised approximately $3,400 but has incurred a debt of nearly $1,000 due to overspending. His principal donor, Cassius Carter, contributed $1,000 to his campaign.