Tucson City Council Hopefuls Unveil Eye-Popping Fundraising Figures

As the August 5 primary approaches, fundraising efforts of Tucson City Council candidates have come under scrutiny following this week’s financial reports. Candidates for the November election are revealing their financial strengths, with various contenders emerging ahead in their respective races.

In the Ward 6 Democratic primary, Miranda Schubert and Leighton Rockafellow Jr. are significantly ahead of competitors Theresa Riel and Jim Sinex. Meanwhile, in the Ward 5 Democratic primary, Jesse Lugo and Selina Barajas are leading over Chris Elsner and Fabian Danobeytia. Incumbent Kevin Dahl maintains a strong lead in the Ward 3 Democratic primary against challenger Sadie Shaw.

Fundraising reports detail candidates’ finances through March 31. In Ward 6, Schubert, operations manager at community radio station KXCI, has generated a total of $35,891, combining $19,431 in contributions and $16,459 from public matching funds. After expenditures of $13,482, she retains $22,409 in her campaign account. Schubert is the first in Ward 6 to qualify for matching funds.

“I’m proud of the quantity and diversity of the supporters who have helped us reach this important milestone,” Schubert stated. To qualify for matching funds, candidates must raise at least 200 contributions of at least $10 from city residents.

Her major supporters include architect Corky Poster and UA research professor Keith Bentele, each contributing $500. This marks Schubert’s second attempt for the Ward 6 seat; she previously garnered 28 percent of the vote in the 2021 election.

In contrast, Rockafellow Jr. has raised $26,445, making strides in contributions but has yet to obtain matching funds. He remains short of the necessary contributions to qualify. “I’m very happy with our fundraising totals, especially given the fact that I’m a first-time candidate,” Rockafellow said, emphasizing his progress.

Two other candidates, Riel and Sinex, are lagging significantly. Riel has raised $3,050 while Sinex, a retired teacher, reported only a $324 personal contribution. The primary winner will face Republican Jay Tolkoff, who has thus far conducted limited fundraising, preferring to secure his candidacy before seeking contributions.

In Ward 5, Jesse Lugo leads the pack with $18,025 raised, including a $1,600 personal loan. Most of his fundraising comes from small donations, highlighting his grassroots approach. He has reached nearly halfway to qualifying for matching funds, expressing optimism about continuing support.

Selina Barajas reported raising $15,336 and noted eligibility for $14,373 in matching funds, pending qualification. Chris Elsner, a Peace Corps veteran, raised $4,043 but acknowledges the need for more support as he embarks on his initial campaign.

Fabian Danobeytia, another newcomer, has raised $889 and is not participating in the matching fund program, favoring a grassroots strategy instead.

Finally, in Ward 3, incumbent Kevin Dahl has amassed $31,931, applying for matching funds due to his strong support base. He has $22,807 remaining after expenses. Challenger Sadie Shaw has made a modest entry, raising $2,366 since her campaign began.

The upcoming primary elections will be crucial, as candidates continue to vie for contributions and support leading up to the August 5 date. With emerging leaders in each ward, Tucson voters are poised for a competitive election season.