Rep. Sandoval’s Voting History: A Controversial Stance on Tax Relief and Child Sex Trafficking Penalties

By Staff Reporter |

Mariana Sandoval, the progressive Democratic incumbent of Arizona’s Legislative District 23, is poised for reelection as her party aims to secure both chambers of the state legislature. First elected in November 2022, Sandoval has served alongside Republican Michele Peña and is a member of the Land, Agriculture & Rural Affairs Committee and the Ways & Means Committee.

Sandoval’s campaign has garnered significant backing from various left-leaning organizations, including the Human Rights Campaign PAC and the Sierra Club. These endorsements underscore her commitment to progressive values. However, her voting record over the past two years has drawn criticism, particularly from constituents who feel her decisions do not align with their interests.

One of the most contentious votes came in 2023 when Sandoval opposed SB 1063, a measure aimed at eliminating certain food-related taxes. While the Republicans passed the bill, it was ultimately vetoed by Governor Katie Hobbs, who highlighted that the legislation would not provide real financial relief to Arizonans, especially amid rising inflation.

Senate President Warren Petersen criticized Hobbs’ veto, arguing that the governor is ignoring the economic struggles of low-income families. He stated Senate Republicans are dedicated to providing essential financial assistance during difficult times.

Further complicating her position, Sandoval voted against HB 2586, legislation intended to regulate online content harmful to minors. Governor Hobbs rejected this bill, stating it contradicted established legal precedent. Advocates for the bill expressed disappointment, emphasizing the necessity of age verification to protect children from accessing inappropriate content online.

This week, Hobbs’ veto of HB 2586 stirred additional debate, with various organizations and individuals asserting that protecting children should transcend political divides. The American Principles Project emphasized the bipartisan support for such protective measures across numerous states.

Moreover, Sandoval opposed SCR 1021, a resolution aimed at mandating life imprisonment for adults convicted of child sex trafficking offenses. This legislation received broad support in the Arizona Legislature and will appear on the ballot this November. Republican Senator Shawnna Bolick, who sponsored the bill, stressed the urgency of safeguarding children from exploitation.

According to recent data from the Arizona Independent Redistricting Commission, Legislative District 23 exhibits a competitive political landscape, with Democrats having maintained a winning streak in recent elections. Sandoval will face off against Peña in the upcoming General Election, alongside fellow Democrat Matias Rosales, who secured a notable number of primary votes.

The electoral dynamics suggest a heated contest, as Peña employs a “single shot” voting strategy to reclaim the seat. In the last election, Peña outpaced her opponents significantly, a trend she aims to replicate this November.